The subject of
“equality” is the source of much political debate these days. Ever since the
founding era, free-market thinkers have argued for equality of opportunity in
the economic order. Equality, in other words, is a framework, not a result. In
modern terms the goal is a level playing field. Government should be a referee
that enforces property rights, laws, and contracts equally for all individuals. What the
free-market view means in policy terms is no (or few) tariffs for business, no
subsidies for farmers, and no racism written into law. Also, successful
businessmen will not be subject to special taxes or the seizure of property.
In America this
view of equality is enshrined in the Declaration of Independence (“all men are
created equal and are endowed by their creator with certain inalienable
rights”) and the Constitution (“imposts and excises shall be uniform throughout
the United States” and “equal protection of the laws”). Much of America’s
first century as a nation was devoted to ending slavery, extending voting
rights, and securing property and inheritance rights for women–fulfilling the
Founders’ goal of equal opportunity for all citizens…..To Read More……
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