Item 3 in Quaker Testimonies

Equality

Recognise equal human dignity and oppose unjust hierarchy and discrimination.

Position
3
Form
Mixed formulation
Obligation
Context-dependent
Wording status
Translation
Intended audience
Quakers, with broader public ethical relevance
Last reviewed
28 June 2026

Names and terminology

Canonical name: Equality

Source wording

Recognise equal human dignity and oppose unjust hierarchy and discrimination.

Translation

Broader interpretation

Recognise equal human dignity and oppose unjust hierarchy and discrimination.

Practical meaning

Recognise equal human dignity and oppose unjust hierarchy and discrimination.

Ethical purpose

This principle is intended to guide conduct, character and relationships in accordance with the parent framework.

Variations across schools or traditions

Interpretation and application may vary across communities, translations and individual circumstances.

Criticism and difficult cases

This principle should be applied with attention to evidence, consent, equality, power, foreseeable harm and realistic alternatives.

Truth By Reason analysis

Recognise equal human dignity and oppose unjust hierarchy and discrimination. Its ethical force depends on whether its application reduces avoidable harm and respects equal human dignity.

Ethical themes

  • Justice
  • Human dignity
  • Freedom

Sources