Equality Under The Law Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Equality Under The Law?

Equality under the law is one of the fundamental principles of a just society. It means that all citizens, regardless of their gender, race, ethnicity, religion or other characteristics, should be subject to and receive equal protection under the law. Equality under the law is essential for ensuring that every individual has a fair opportunity to reach his or her full potential and contribute to society in a meaningful way. The idea that all people are equal before the law dates back centuries; however it wasn’t until the twentieth century when laws were finally passed in many countries which explicitly stated this principle in writing. In 1948, for instance, the United Nations adopted its Universal Declaration of Human Rights which guaranteed equality before the law by stating Everyone is entitled to all rights and freedoms set forth in this Declaration without distinction as to race, colour sexor any other status (Article 2). In modern times equality before the law remains an ideal rather than reality for many individuals around world. Despite legal protections on paper there are still significant disparities between how different groups are treated by police and courts. For example African Americans are disproportionately arrested and incarcerated in comparison with whites while women continue to face discrimination when it comes to wages and employment opportunities even though they may have achieved formal legal equality with men decades ago. It is therefore important that governments continue working towards achieving true equality under the law so that no person will be disadvantaged because of their identity or background. This can be done through measures such as introducing affirmative action policies designed to address historical injustices as well strengthening oversight bodies which ensure fairness within institutions like police departments and judicial systems.