This essay is composed of three main parts; will attempt to provide an answer to the question. What is equality? The term equality has many connotations in the English language; therefore, it will be necessary to use it in the social context. It will be necessary to take a brief look at the history of equality using examples and references from writers such as Marx and Tawney. A more current framework will be used below to provide a more up-to-date perspective. The task will then proceed to define, with examples, the meaning of equal opportunities. For the purposes of this essay the more general term will be used to describe equal opportunities. Attention will also be paid to relevant legislation that supports equal opportunities in modern society. The essay will continue with a critical discussion on how equality is applied or not applied in society, as the case may be. The discussion will include comparisons with the main political parties and, where the student deems it necessary, examples will be provided and the views of service users and members of the public will be taken into account. This aims to provide insights and information on how equality and equal opportunities affect certain sectors of society. Finally, this assignment will conclude with a complete summary of the essay. The history of equality can be traced back many years. Aristotle and Plato, Greek philosophers, had many opinions on the balance between the value of the free thought of individuals and the need for society to be led by the best and most intelligent. For Marxists, the backbone of Marxism is equality, the root of all inequality is capitalism, which provides differences in wealth, wages, living conditions, education and housing. A company that I...... middle of paper ......he various writers and students. However, equality is such a diverse concept that no one idea could demonstrate precisely what equality is. Equality means many things to different people. As long as you include the words respect and fairness, the definition is not far from accurate. Secondly, the essay examines the meaning of equal opportunities. The essay provided an overview of legislation supporting equal opportunities and also its impact on society. Finally, the essay discusses, with examples, how equality works within society. This included observations from service users and members of the public. It is a general opinion that inequalities still exist in modern society, especially towards the poorest members of society. It was also accepted that these inequalities would remain in the current economic climate.