Q: I have been told that learned biases form the basis for most inequality. What is your opinion?

A: Equality can be defined as the state of being equal, especially in status, rights, and opportunities. In mathematics, equality is a symbolic expression of two quantities being equal. If you look up synonyms, you will find words such as:

• Justice
• Nondiscrimination
• Equal opportunity
• Even-handedness
• Fairness
• Justness
• Impartiality
• Egalitarianism

Look at almost any type of defined inequality and there will be a spoken or unspoken bias (or opinion) that some individuals are worth more than others, are more deserving than others, or should be rewarded more highly than others—based on skin color or gender, for two. This will be acted out as unequal pay and/or recognition for the same job. Also, redlining or other subtle or not-so-subtle criteria for joining churches or clubs or other organizations. 

Every brain is valuable simply because it exists. Some brains are “smarter” than other brains. But one would be hard pushed to prove that human beings—given the same educational opportunities and upbringing—are universally “dumber” or “smarter” based on race, skin color, or ethnicity.