Equality and Diversity Essay - 3406 Words

Inequality exists, even in societies without formal stratification (Parsons, 1970). Whilst complete societal equality may be unattainable, Equal Opportunities (EO) policies aim to ‘reduce the gap. Inequality takes different forms and there is much theoretical debate regarding which grouping variables, such as gender or age, are important. There exist three key notions of ‘equality of opportunity’: formal, liberal and radical. The former two are minimalist concepts, concerned principally with equality of opportunity - the ‘beginning’ of the process. Conversely, the radical perspective, a maximalist concept, is more concerned with outcome. This paper outlines these three approaches, evaluates their successes and considers whether†¦show more content†¦For Johns and Green (2009), simply to address individual, direct forms of discrimination is insufficient; only two forms of EO can be aimed at institutional discrimination - radical (which they do n ot support) or liberal. The liberal notion, incorporating elements of formal EO, defines equality as ‘equality of fair opportunity’ (Rawls, 1999), with the fundamental aim that individuals possessing equal talents and ambitions should also have equal prospects. The model recognises that the effects of past discrimination are likely to impact negatively on current equality of opportunity and the impact of institutional discrimination. Here, whilst merit-based recruitment may be applied, some individuals may not have had the same opportunities as a result of such group characteristics as gender or ethnicity. Although this model, sometimes known as ‘prospect-regarding equal opportunities’ formed part of the legislation of the early 1970s, it was seldom used (Iganski and Mason, 2003). A need to employ policies to reduce gaps in income, educational attainment, wealth and health was recognised and addressed by such legislation as the Equal Pay Act, 1970, Sex Discrimination Act 1975 and R ace Relations Act 1976 (superceded by the Equality Act 2010). Liberal notions of equality became the preferred option of New Labour following the Macpherson Report. For Edwards and Batley (1978), it can be used in two different ways. It canShow MoreRelatedEquality and Diversity2900 Words   |  12 Pagesand is made up of 5 Parts. Name: Part 1: Understanding equality This section will help you to evidence Learning Outcome 1: Know the meaning of equality |Learning objective |Place in Assessment | |1.1 Define the following terms: |Question 1 Page 1 | |Equality Read MoreEquality and Diversity2238 Words   |  9 Pages1. What is meant by diversity? Diversity means differences and variations, within in people for example different races, beliefs, physical appearances, age, capabilities, customs and gender and class. 2. Describe the community you live in. Highlight some of the variations you may observe in terms of: †¢ Interests †¢ Beliefs †¢ Ages †¢ Lifestyles †¢ Personal, social and cultural identities. The community I live in is very diverse, I live among various different cultures and lifestylesRead MoreEquality and Diversity2601 Words   |  11 PagesRunning Head: EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY 1 Equality and Diversity: A New Approach to Gender Equality  Policy in the UK Gender Studies 30th April 2011 EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY 2 Abstract The United Kingdom is a country that claims to be intolerant towards gender discrimination and at ease with diversity of all kinds. It believesRead MoreEquality and Diversity2575 Words   |  11 Pageswill demonstrate my understanding of equality and diversity as a key approach to policy and practice within my setting. I will make reference to current legislation such as equal pay act, disability discrimination act, sex discrimination act and equality act. Other areas of discriminatory practice I will discuss are language and terminology, stereotyping and attitudes in relation to children and young people. I will explore anti discriminatory practice and diversity that is within the everyday role ofRead MoreDiversity And Equality And Diversity1852 Words   |  8 PagesDiversity tends to be established by people from different spheres of life including different ethnicities, cultures, and social settings. It allows individuals to appreciate and understand the interdependence of cu lture, the environment in which people are living, and humanity. Diversity also helps individuals to build alliances and unity despite having a difference regarding their beliefs, religion, and culture. It helps one to recognize and appreciate that people are born different regardingRead MoreEquality, Diversity, and Democracy1348 Words   |  6 PagesJustice and Equality Cannot Coexist, For When One is Achieved the Other is Infringed Upon: Equality, diversity, and democracy are the three components that America claims to revolve around, but unfortunately lacks. America is a nation filled with envy, rage, and such preposterous behaviors and actions. Since the founding of the nation, to the present of America, and according to the predicament of the future, this territorial notion that America abides by is slowly corrupting the nation. SinceRead MoreManagement Of Equality And Diversity1117 Words   |  5 Pagesmanagement of equality and diversity in own area of responsibility. The table below highlights the observations and evaluation that I have conducted for the implementation of the University’s launch of the Equality Diversity Framework. The observation includes suggested actions and a timeframe on areas where I could influence or have responsibility and authority to change. The University implementation plan was to deliver the strategy through the development of a strategic equality and diversity frameworkRead MoreEquality Diversity Inclusion1538 Words   |  7 Pages1.1 Explain what is meant by. Equality Equality is treating people fairly and making sure that everyone is given a fair chance and that their individual needs are met. It’s about giving all sections of the community equal access to employment, education and other services that are provided whilst valuing and respecting them. Recognising that different sections of the community require specific measures to make sure they receive equality. Recognising how and why some groups are underrepresentedRead MoreEquality and Diversity in Childcare9428 Words   |  38 PagesEducation course. One of the modules is Equality and Diversity in Childcare. For this exercise I will explore equality and diversity concepts as relevant to Irish Society. Analyse approaches to diversity education including, assimilation, multicultural, intercultural and anti-bias. Explore equality and diversity terminology; including prejudice, discrimination, racism, sexism and abelism etc. Examine current legislation on Equality and Diversity, to incl ude Equality Legislation, the UN Convention on theRead MoreEquality and Diversity Essay1577 Words   |  7 PagesNCFE Level 2 Certificate in Equality and Diversity Unit 1: Exploring Equality and Diversity Assessment You should use this file to complete your Assessment. The first thing you need to do is save a copy of this document, either onto your computer or a disk Then work through your Assessment, remembering to save your work regularly When you’ve finished, print out a copy to keep for reference Then, go to www.vision2learn.com and send your completed Assessment to your tutor via