Can Society Function Without Social Inequality?

Is it possible for society to function without social stratification and inequality? It's a provocative question that has sparked much debate. The answer is no, and the reasons are multifaceted.

Inequality as an Inherent Trait

Social stratification is an intrinsic part of human society. Just as your brain has a higher place than your appendix in the stratified hierarchy of body organs, some individuals significantly outrank others in society. This hierarchy, whether based on wealth, status, or capabilities, is not likely to be eradicated anytime soon. Even societies that have tried to achieve a more equal distribution of resources have ultimately failed to create perfect equality.

Functionality of Inequality

While some argue that a more equal society would make life better and more fair, the reality is that inequality can actually contribute to the smooth functioning of society. In fact, society can thrive without the inequality of effort, productivity, and contribution to the economy. Just as you can still go skiing on the Great Plains, it might not be as engaging as skiing in Vermont or Colorado, but it's still possible.

Inequality can create a dynamic and diverse economy where different individuals contribute based on their capabilities and interests. This dynamic allows for innovation and economic growth, as seen with the examples of John Deere and the invention of the steel plow. Would the poor be better off if there was no Walmart? Would it be better without the automobile? The disparity in wealth and resources actually creates opportunities for the less fortunate to find fulfilling work and contribute to society.

The Benefits of Inequality

Inequality can lead to a more prosperous society. When people get rich by enriching their customers, as John Deere did with the steel plow, it leads to economic growth and increased productivity. The invention of the automobile by Henry Ford not only improved transportation but also created massive economic opportunities for the less wealthy. In America, the poor have access to air conditioning, cell phones, and big-screen TVs, which is a luxury compared to the majority of the global population.

It's important to note that inequality does not mean desperation and poverty. Inequality, in this context, refers to a disparity in wealth and resources, not in skills or capabilities. The American poor, for example, are generally much better off than the poor in many other parts of the world, where 700 million people live on less than $1.90 per day. The poor in America have access to modern conveniences that were unimaginable even a few decades ago.

Inequality and Human Nature

Inequality is deeply rooted in human nature. Humans have different mental and physical capabilities, and not all individuals can achieve the same level of success. From birth, some individuals are born into circumstances that give them greater opportunities and advantages. While eusocial insects like ants and bees have a more equal society, even their perfect equality is not ideal. The very strong status drive in humans makes it unlikely that we could ever design a system with true social equality. Instead, equity may be more achievable than absolute equality.

Capitalism has been the most effective system because it aligns with human nature. It allows individuals to strive for social status by serving others, thereby encouraging economic growth and stability. This system has a strong correlation with inequality but a low correlation with absolute poverty, meaning that even the poor in the Western world have a much better quality of life compared to the kings of yore.

Other systems, those that substitute violence for social engagement, tend to be less stable and dynamic, often leading to rapid collapse. Despite the inevitability of inequality, it's crucial to channel competition into win-win scenarios. The competition itself may not always end in victory, but it ensures that one is better off than they would be if they had never played at all.

Ultimately, the challenge lies not so much in the “can” society function without inequality but in the “will it ever”. As long as humans pursue status and recognition, some form of inequality will persist. The key is to design a system that turns these competitive drives into constructive and beneficial activities.