inegalism

Inegalism is a term used in political philosophy to denote the view that social and economic inequality may be natural, morally permissible, or desirable, and therefore should not be eliminated by egalitarian policies. It contrasts with egalitarian theories that seek to reduce disparities in wealth, status, and opportunity. Inegalism is not a single doctrine but a family of positions that justify inequality on different grounds, such as efficiency, incentives, or recognition of legitimate differences in talents, effort, or contributions.

Variants emphasize different grounds: some argue that natural or desert-based differences produce outcomes that individuals do not deserve to be treated as equal; others appeal to freedom of choice, voluntary exchange, and limited state intervention to argue that redistribution is unjust. In libertarian or meritocratic strands, inegalism aligns with market mechanisms and reward structures that reflect ability and work.

Critics contend that unmitigated inequality undermines social cohesion, obstructs fair opportunities, and risks political legitimacy. They worry about entrenched disadvantages across generations and the erosion of basic liberties for the less privileged. Proponents argue that it preserves diversity, motivation, and innovation.

The term is relatively uncommon in mainstream philosophy and is often used to label positions opposed to distributive egalitarianism rather than describe a unified doctrine. See also: Egalitarianism, Distributive justice, Meritocracy, Libertarianism.