Men, Women, and Equity

Abstract

The concept of equity is proposed as having advantages over that of equality. By equity, we mean a fair allocation both of opportunity and of constraints. Though the danger of abuse of this concept is recognized (e.g., in the possibility of compliance with status quo conditions through low consciousness), it is put forward as a concept which goes beyond that of equality; it acknowledges differences between men and women and the need to think in terms df variations of patterns. To achieve equity in relationships between men and women, different areas of peoples' lives must be revised both separately and in relation to one another. The occupational, familial, and personal motivational systems are all involved. New concepts of self, new concepts of male-female relationships and of parent-child relationships, and new ways of structuring work and family life are entailed. All will require testing in experience.