materialgleiche

Materialgleiche is a German term used as an attributive adjective to indicate something that is materially equivalent or substantively equal. Because it is not a highly standardized term, its exact meaning depends on the field of use, and many writers prefer more common formulations such as materielle Gleichheit or substantielle Gleichheit.

In philosophy and political theory, materialgleiche usage often contrasts formal equality (treating everyone the same) with material or substantive equality (providing different treatment to achieve equal outcomes). Discussions may focus on how social, economic, or structural differences are addressed to reduce disparities in real life rather than to apply identical rules in every case.

In law, the concept can appear in debates about materiale Gleichheit or materielle Gleichbehandlung. Here it refers to the idea that legal rules should yield equal real-world effects, which can justify differential or affirmative measures aimed at correcting inequities. The exact implications of material equality in law vary by jurisdiction and context.

In sociology and economics, materialgleiche conditions imply similar access to material resources and opportunities, so that differences in outcomes are minimized through redistribution or policy interventions.

Limitations: because the term is not universally standardized, its interpretation can be vague. Readers often substitute more precise terms like materielle Gleichheit, substantielle Gleichheit, or Gleichbehandlung to convey the intended meaning.

See also: material equality, formal equality, substantive equality, Gleichheit, Gleichbehandlung.