Aristotle - Question 6. Comment on Aristotle's conception of equality.

                                               Aristotle's conception of equality is central element of his ethical and political philosophy as articulated in his works 'Politics' and 'Nicomachean Ethics'. Aristotle distinguishes two types of equalities, (1) Numerical Equality - it's a principle of treating everyone exactly the same, for example - universal adult franchise, (2) Proportional Equality - it is about fairness by treating individuals or groups differently based on their specific circumstances to achieve true equality, for example - affirmative action and reservation. 

                                                       In 'Politics', Aristotle argues that justice involves treating equals equally and unequals unequally in proportion to their relevant differences. For example, in India we can see that in the form of Article- 14, affirmative action and reservation, reasonable classification, taxation system, so on and so forth. 

                                        However, Aristotle's conception of equality has been critiqued for its exclusionary aspects as he limits full citizenship, he limits political participation to only few men, he excludes women, slaves and non-Greek from political life. Feminist scholars like Martha Nussbaum criticized Aristotle's views for being inherently hierarchical and patriarchal. Karl Marx criticized Aristotle's views on equality, as Marx suggested that political system is often used to perpetuate the power of the ruling class and that contradicts the notion of equality in a society. 

                                                         Aristotle's conception of equality has significantly influenced modern ideas about justice and meritocracy, but it has also remained controversial for it exclusionary and hierarchical nature.