Politics of Equality

Social egalitarian political philosophy - a broad tradition encompassing socialists, communists, and social democrats - transformed the world during the last century and continues to hold a vital position on the ideological landscape today. Yet, the core values behind social egalitarianism have often been obscured by political competition and scholarly debate. Why are socialists, communists, and social democrats concerned with the distribution of wealth? Why do they place so much importance on public goods such as education and health care? To what extent does democracy matter to social egalitarians? In The Politics of Equality, Jason C. Myers sheds new light on questions such as these, providing a readable, contemporary introduction to egalitarian political philosophy. Concentrating on ideas and values, rather than on the rise and fall of parties and movements, the book offers crucial insights into a vital tradition of political thought and how it is key to our understanding of key contemporary debates over issues such as national health care, privatization, and economic regulation. This is essential reading for anyone interested in constructing a more just society.