Mary Douglas: 'Inequality can have a bad downside, but equality, for its part, sure does get in the way of coordination.'

Inequality can have a bad downside, but equality, for its part, sure does get in the way of coordination.

The quote by Mary Douglas, "Inequality can have a bad downside, but equality, for its part, sure does get in the way of coordination," succinctly captures the complex relationship between inequality, equality, and coordination. In a straightforward interpretation, the quote implies that while inequality may result in negative outcomes, equality can also hinder coordination. However, delving deeper into this concept, we can introduce the philosophical concept of equilibrium to shed new light on the topic.At first glance, it may seem counterintuitive to suggest that equality, typically associated with fairness and justice, could impede coordination. After all, equality promotes a level playing field, where everyone has equal opportunities and access to resources. In theory, this should foster cooperation and efficient decision-making. However, when everyone is equal, it becomes challenging to assign responsibilities, draw on individual strengths, and specialize in different areas. In other words, too much equality can stifle coordination by erasing the differences that contribute to a well-functioning society.On the other hand, inequality, as Douglas points out, comes with its own set of problems. When a society experiences considerable disparities in power, wealth, or social status, the resulting imbalances can hinder cooperation and coordination. Those at the highest end of the inequality spectrum may exploit their advantages for personal gain, leading to resentments and a breakdown in social cohesion. In this sense, inequality can create a toxic environment that prevents effective coordination.Herein lies the important question: how can we find balance between equality and inequality to optimize coordination? This is where the concept of equilibrium comes into play. Equilibrium, in theoretical terms, refers to a state of balance achieved through the interaction of opposing forces. Applying this concept to the quote, we can see that an optimal level of neither extreme inequality nor complete equality is necessary to foster coordination effectively.In an ideal scenario, a certain degree of inequality is essential for coordination to thrive. This inequality can manifest in diverse individuals with varying skills, perspectives, and roles. By assigning people different tasks based on their strengths, society can tap into the potential for specialization and expertise. Cooperation and coordination emerge when individuals are empowered to use their unique abilities, thus creating a harmonious balance. This delicate equilibrium ensures that coordination can occur efficiently without sacrificing the principles of equality and fairness.Therefore, a nuanced understanding of inequality and equality is crucial in promoting coordination within society. It is not a simple matter of choosing between the two, but rather recognizing their interdependence and seeking a balance that maximizes the benefits of both. In this equilibrium, individuals' differences are acknowledged, celebrated, and effectively utilized to create a collaborative environment where coordination can thrive.In conclusion, Mary Douglas's quote about the downsides of both inequality and equality raises thought-provoking questions about the relationship between these concepts and coordination. While inequality can lead to negative outcomes, complete equality can also hinder the coordination required for an efficient society. By introducing the philosophical concept of equilibrium, we can understand that a balance between inequality and equality is necessary to optimize coordination. This balance enables the recognition and utilization of diverse strengths and perspectives while maintaining fairness and justice. Embracing such equilibrium is essential for a coordinated, harmonious, and prosperous society.