Life Isn’t Always Fair. How Far Should We Go to Make It Fair?
It’s a fact we’ve all heard before: life isn’t fair. Some people are born into wealthy families, while others struggle to make ends meet. Some people are healthy, and others have to deal with illness or disability. And some kids have access to the best schools and tutors, while others don’t even have basic supplies. We can’t control where we start in life, and because of this, the idea of fairness might seem impossible.
But just because life isn’t fair doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try to make it better for everyone. Even though we can’t control everything, there are actions we can take to make society fairer so that everyone has a real chance to succeed. Let’s dive into why fairness matters and what we can do to create a more level playing field.
Why Should We Care About Fairness?
Imagine a race where some people start at the finish line, and others start way behind the starting line. It wouldn’t make sense to say everyone had a fair chance. Fairness is about trying to give everyone the same opportunity to do well, no matter where they start. When life is fairer, people feel safer, healthier, and happier. Research from the American Psychological Association shows that people who feel they have equal opportunities are more likely to trust others, contribute to their communities, and support each other (APA).
We should care about fairness because it helps us create a stronger, healthier society. When we treat each other with fairness, we build communities where people want to help each other succeed. Fairness doesn’t mean everyone gets the same result; it means everyone has a chance to try.
How Can We Make Things Fairer?
While we can’t control everything, there are things we can do as a society to create more fairness. Here are a few key areas we can work on:
1. Equal Access to Education
One of the best ways to make things fairer is by providing equal access to education. Education is a powerful tool for change. Studies show that students from low-income backgrounds who attend high-quality schools are much more likely to graduate, go to college, and have successful careers (Brookings Institution). But not all schools have the same resources, teachers, or funding. By investing in schools in low-income areas and giving them the resources they need, we help level the playing field so all kids have a fair shot.
2. Healthcare Access for All
Imagine trying to do well in school or work while dealing with an untreated illness. Fair access to healthcare is essential because everyone deserves a chance to live a healthy life, no matter their income. Research from the World Health Organization shows that people without access to healthcare often struggle more in school, work, and life overall (WHO). Providing affordable healthcare makes it fairer for everyone because no one should suffer just because they can’t afford a doctor’s visit.
3. Support Systems for Hard Times
Life throws unexpected challenges at all of us—job loss, illness, family emergencies. But not everyone has the same support to handle these setbacks. Safety nets, like unemployment benefits, housing assistance, or food programs, are ways to make sure people aren’t left struggling. According to research from Harvard University, countries with strong social support systems have lower poverty rates, and people in these countries are generally happier and healthier (Harvard). When we make sure people have support during tough times, we give them a fairer chance to get back on their feet.
4. Anti-Discrimination Laws
Discrimination is another way life becomes unfair. People can be treated unfairly because of their race, gender, religion, or background. Anti-discrimination laws help protect people from being judged based on things they can’t control. These laws have been shown to improve equality in workplaces, schools, and communities, making society fairer overall (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission).
5. Income Equality and Living Wages
Even with a full-time job, some people can barely afford rent and food. Making sure people are paid fair wages for their work is a big part of fairness. The Economic Policy Institute found that raising the minimum wage helps lift people out of poverty and reduces the gap between the rich and the poor (EPI). Ensuring fair wages means that people who work hard can afford the basics in life, which is an essential part of fairness.
Why Should We Keep Trying?
Some people might say, “We can’t make everything fair, so why try?” But striving for fairness helps everyone. When people feel they have a fair shot, they’re more motivated to work hard, treat others kindly, and give back to their communities. And while we may never make life completely fair, every step we take toward fairness makes a difference for someone who might be struggling.
Fairness isn’t about making everyone’s life identical. It’s about respecting each person’s right to opportunities, support, and a shot at happiness. By working toward fairness, we’re building a society that’s kinder, stronger, and better for everyone. We may not control where we start, but we can help each other along the way.