Did you know that Plato, Aristotle and Nietzsche did not believe that all people are created equal?

[Anonymous]

The belief that all people are created equal is something we are taught in Western societies today. Some people are dogmatic about the belief. But it is hardly a universal and timeless belief. Plato divided people into gold, silver and bronze. Aristotle said some people are naturally slaves. Nietzsche stated "In the age of universal suffrage when everyone may sit in judgment on everyone and everything, I feel impelled to reestablish order of rank."

Yes, I knew that.

Huh. No, I had no idea.

[OneViewpoint]

Hardly a revelation. Plato, Aristotle and Nietzsche were all products of the times and cultures they lived in. Just as we all are. They were simply recognizing the fact that the human race is not a society of identical clones. Duh! We are all unequal in measurable ways. Height, weight, strength, intelligence, looks, fitness, empathy, gender, etc.

But humans have generally decided that we'll recognize certain abstract concepts of equality that are not physically measurable. Things like a right to vote, property rights, self defense, freedom of speech, freedom of religion, control over our own bodies, the right to pursue our lives as we see fit, etc. That recognition changes over time and cultures.

Why is any of this a revelation to you?

[Ariesman81]

They aren't necessarily wrong, but they don't tell the entire story. While it's true individuals are different, that doesn't mean they lack purpose.

Similar to a beehive, a microcosm of society where purpose is well defined and observable, all are necessary for the survival of hive and all are replaceable should they not fulfill their purpose.

[PretzelBeanie]

They were wise in their context, but they were not omniscient. Obviously. Nobody's philosophy can be perfect.

[CupcakeTheDestroyer]

Humans are hierarchal thinkers, especially men. This isn’t particularly shocking

[DrPepper12]

Equality and equality of opportunity are VERY DIFFERENT

[Asker]

Well, they are related beliefs because they presume the belief that equality is a good thing. Plato, Aristotle and Nietzsche would have denied that all people should have equal opportunity to rule over society as King or President too. Plato said only gold people should have the opportunity to rule over society.

[exitseven]

I knew that. Everyone is equal but some are more equal than others.

[Sal_Monella]

Plato, Aristotle and Nietzsche were no faithful Christians or Jews.

[midnightmoon05]

We are not created equal