Comparing Equality In Declaration Of Sentiments And Resolutions, By Harrison Bergeron

We live in a society that stresses both equality and individualism. Unfortunately, there is a lot of strife between the two concepts. Social media trends and peer pressure have turned society into one where everyone must be equal, and collectivism is key. Equality is the idea that all should be given the same opportunities no matter their place in life. To gain this equality individuals are told to sacrifice their own uniqueness and ideals, or individuality, they possess. These tensions can be navigated by understanding and respecting the rights of individuals in society. Harrison Bergeron by Kurt Vonnegut shows an example of what overbearing equality can do to a society. Conversely, Elizabeth Cady Stanton showed a well-structured argument

Author Elizabeth Cady Stanton logically and ethically argued for the equal treatment of women in her “Declaration of Sentiments and Resolutions”. She laid out examples of their inequality such as, “He has compelled her to submit to laws, in the formation of which she had no voice” (Stanton, 2007, p.59). This exemplifies the treatment of women and the lack of equality shown to the women of her society. Making laws for a whole group of individuals without considering their individuality ruins not only that concept but also the function of equality. One group of people should not be making rules for another without the input of the said group. Stanton understood our God-given individuality stating “[B]eing invested by the Creator with the same capabilities, and the same consciousness of responsibility for their existence, it is demonstrably the right and duty of women…to promote righteous cause” (Stanton, 2007. p.61). Individuals are responsible for their existence, and it is not up to the decision of others how their life should be

The authors Kurt Vonnegut and Elizabeth Cady Stanton introduced respective ideas on the concepts of individuality and equality. Both of their sides can be used together to form a cohesive combination of ideals. Looking at Vonnegut’s description of a society based on absolute equality, one can see what not to do when seeking unity in a society. Forced equality will do nothing for society other than create stagnation. To avoid this, the use of Stanton’s ideals on equality and individuality should be implemented. Understanding that humans are created with the same equal rights and their differences will help maintain individuality even while maintaining equality for those involved. Individuality has been graciously given to us since our very creation by God. “So God created man in his own, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them” (English Standard Version, 2001, Gen. 2:7). God made us in the image of himself and gave us the ability to live freely and uniquely. However, this verse also emphasizes our equality as well. God made man and woman together and tasked them to live together as equal entities with differing duties. This equality should not trump the idea that we were created as unique individuals who have a variety of differences that challenge our equality but do not overshadow