Evaluate The Extent To Which Australia Is An Egalitarian Society.
Submitted by freefortermpapers on 06/24/2008 03:00 PM
- Category: American History
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Evaluate The Extent To Which Australia Is An Egalitarian Society.
An egalitarian society is one with equal rights for all people. The definition of equality must include social equality, equal opportunity, equal outcomes for all within the society, and equal social equity. Compared to other societies that exist, Australia could be considered egalitarianism. However the truth of the matter is that Australia is not an egalitarian society. Within Australia there are still classes, and these are created through discrimination, prejudice and inequality.
Discrimination is when one distinguishes, in favour of, or unfairly against a person because of their sexuality, gender, or other irrational reason. The basis for discrimination within sexuality is that people have a variety of sexual orientations that do not conform to the norm. This is shown in legislation which unfairly treats homosexual men. The age for sexual consent within New South Wales for heterosexual couples is 16, the age for lesbian couples is non existent, yet the age for gay men is 18 years of age. This example of discrimination on the grounds of sexuality shows that equality between people of different sexual orientation does not exist within NSW.
Australian society is patriarchal, and this is clearly shown in the expectations of gender roles. Whilst recently, women have been breaking the gender role barrier, new barriers have been put in place. Mothers are now not only expected to look after their families, but also work a part or full time job. There are still fewer women in the top' jobs and in traditionally male jobs. Women head 93% of single parent families and make up 11% of families below the poverty line. This is yet another example that shows inequality exists within Australia, thus negating the social image that our society is an egalitarian one.
Prejudice within Australian society usually occurs due to lack of knowledge. The common prejudices which exist are those based on racism, gender and...
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