The Roots of Equality: Anthropological and Normative Sources

Lantz Miller argues that the idea of equality was not invented to nurture peace and prevent self-annihilation, but rather to ensure the species' continual survival. He looks to the origin of H. sapiens along its Homo line to argue that profound individual autonomy, which allowed for social equality, was a natural condition that shaped the species.

Format: Hardback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 15 August 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

For centuries, thinkers have been captivated by the enigma of how humans ever conceived the notion of equality. Despite being territorial and exhibiting a violent streak since the dawn of recorded history, the species has devised a peaceful idea that ensures everyone receives their fair share. This paradoxical concept has puzzled scholars for ages.

Equality can be seen as a survival strategy: If we can guarantee such peace, we may prevent self-annihilation. However, when we examine the phenomenon across the entirety of Homo sapiens' existence, a naturalistic solution emerges. As Aristotle famously stated, to understand a thing, look to its origin. Lantz Miller proposes that we did not create equality to foster peace and prevent self-destruction. Rather, archaeology suggests that our species has lived for hundreds of thousands of years in a specific social condition that facilitated our continuous survival. This condition was characterized by profound individual autonomy, encouraging and even necessitating social equality.

In his book, "The Roots of Equality: Anthropological and Normative Sources," Lantz Miller delves into the origins of equality by drawing insights from both philosophy and anthropology. He explores how our foraging ancestors thrived in and nurtured an autonomy-inducing social phenomenon that profoundly shaped our species. Through this comprehensive examination, Miller sheds light on the mechanisms that have contributed to the development of equality and its significance in human societies.

One of the key insights from "The Roots of Equality" is that equality emerged as a response to the challenges posed by our foraging lifestyle. In a world where resources were scarce and competition for survival was fierce, individuals needed to cooperate and work together to ensure their collective well-being. Social equality provided a mechanism for individuals to distribute resources and responsibilities fairly, reducing the risk of conflict and ensuring the survival of the group.

Another important aspect of equality is its connection to individual autonomy. As Miller argues, profound individual autonomy is essential for the development of social equality. When individuals have the freedom to pursue their interests and make their own decisions, they are more likely to contribute to the collective good and support the rights and well-being of others. This autonomy-inducing social phenomenon has been observed in various human societies throughout history, from ancient hunter-gatherer communities to modern democratic societies.

In addition to its origins in our foraging past, equality has also been shaped by cultural and historical factors. Different societies have developed their own unique understandings of equality, influenced by their values, beliefs, and social structures. For example, some societies prioritize social hierarchy.

In conclusion, the mystery of how humans ever invented the notion of equality has captivated thinkers for centuries. While it may seem paradoxical that a species known for its territoriality and violence could have devised such a peaceful idea, a naturalistic solution emerges when we examine the phenomenon across Homo sapiens' existence. Equality emerged as a response to the challenges posed by our foraging lifestyle, where cooperation and collaboration were essential for survival. It was shaped by profound individual autonomy, which enabled individuals to contribute to the collective good and support the rights and well-being of others. Cultural and historical factors have also played a role in shaping different understandings of equality, highlighting the diversity and complexity of human societies. By understanding the roots of equality, we can gain a deeper appreciation of the mechanisms that have contributed to its development and its significance in promoting peace, justice, and social well-being.

Weight: 535g
Dimension: 237 x 158 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781666914863