Equality of Opportunity

Definition

Equality of opportunity refers to fairness regarding job hiring, admission to institutions, and other matters determined by merit. It means everyone is given an equal chance to succeed based on their own efforts and abilities.

Related terms

Affirmative Action: A policy favoring those who tend to suffer from discrimination, especially in relation to employment or education.

Meritocracy: A political system in which economic goods and/or political power are vested in individual people on the basis of talent, effort, and achievement.

Civil Rights: The rights of citizens to political and social freedom and equality.