Dear Alex and colleagues
Thanks Alex for this interesting mailing. It needs
some thought, but I hope to be joining in a
good discussion on it.
all best
Mel
Mel Bartley
Dept of Epidemiology and Public Health,
University College London.
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----- Original Message -----
From: "Alex Scott-Samuel" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: 12 August 2000 18:34
Subject: Equity - a value or a life determinant?
> Dear colleagues,
> A deeply submerged dichotomy, which I believe it is
> crucial to make explicit in our discussions, concerns
> whether we view equity and equality as fundamental
> values or as determinants of the quality of life (and
> therefore of health) - or both. This unvoiced dichotomy
> underlies the total discourse on inequality - and also more
> superficial disagreements like those which surfaced at our
> inaugural meeting.
> Many religions, ideologies and value systems are in
> some sense based on equity. Many people attempt to be
> equitable in their everyday lives. Some of these people -
> and in addition, many others who do not subscribe to these
> values - acknowledge the importance of inequality as a
> determinant of health and of other aspects of the quality
> of life.
> Many researchers, if pressed on the question, would
> sincerely state their belief that for the general benefit
> of humankind it is important to undertake research on
> inequality. This group includes many who do not themselves
> personally see any need to live equitable lives. Such
> people may be confused and even alienated by the values,
> ideologies and emotions which motivate the other groups I
> have described.
> People coming from each of these positions may see
> people who only hold the other type of position as confused
> and even as hypocritical ('Why does Group A constantly
> politicise inequality?' 'What makes Group B think it's
> appropriate to study inequality if they clearly don't
> believe in equality themselves?'). What are your views on
> these issues?
>
> Best wishes
>
> Alex
>
> ******************************************************************
> Alex Scott-Samuel
> EQUAL (Equity in Health Research and Development Unit)
> Department of Public Health
> University of Liverpool
> Whelan Building
> Quadrangle
> Liverpool
> L69 3GB
> Tel (+44)151-794-5569
> Fax (+44)151-794-5588
> e-mail [log in to unmask]
> ******************************************************************
>
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