Rousseau And Locke: Economic Inequality Is A Detriment To Society

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Thesis Throughout time there has been inequalities for all, be it strength, knowledge, and/or talent. These are natural inequalities that are inherited at birth and are not very significant in terms of a natural state of man. However, one inequality that is man made is economic inequality. This type of inequality is a detriment to the society of man. Other forms of inequality can be over come with ingenuity and perseverance, but economic inequality is a systemic disadvantage to the less wealthy. This disadvantage has been institutionalized by the wealthy and government through history. Rousseau and Locke would both agree that economic inequality is of a detriment to society. Economic inequality can be seen in various sorts of ways, some of …show more content…
Locke believed that property should not be accumulated in excess. The person must be able to labor only what is needed and what he could use before it would spoil. This is highlighted in Second Treatise where he writes “…by placing any of his labor on them, did thereby acquire a propriety in them: but if they perish, in his possession, without their due use; if the fruits rotted, or the venison putrefied, before he could spend it, he offended against the common law of nature...” (Locke 24). However, in Locke’s mind, money could be accumulated and horded because it would not waste or spoil. In these terms economic inequality would be fine, because the accumulation of money does not spoil and in turn waste. Unfortunately, this is not how curacy works and will adversely affect the economic inequality of …show more content…
Many government officials have money and power, but in many cases the richest are outside of government and still they effect the government in numerous ways. Many companies and business owners give money to government officials or buy nice things for them through lobbyist, and even pay money towards schools and charities that are supported by that government official to sway votes and legislation in their favor. This example is just one more way that the rich are on unequal terms with the poor. The power to change laws and regulations for your benefit is a huge reason why economic inequality is so bad for society. The rich can keep themselves propped up and continue to legislate income inequality.
Wealth Advantage Furthers Economic Fairness One would think that having money, power, and governmental authority over others would be a great enough divide for economic inequality, but there is more and it starts at childhood. Children that come from a home that is far better off economically have a ginormous advantage over children from a middle class of poor economic home. Children from a home with economic advantages will receive better education, higher status, better opportunities, to name a few. This upbringing will not only set this child up for a more successful life, it will also, continue to intensify the economic inequalities in

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