The Necessity of Equity
An equitable community is one where everyone is included in the full benefits of society. In such a community, everyone is treated with fairness and justice and empowered to participate fully in social, cultural, and economic life.
And the evidence is strong that individuals thrive in these types of communities. Social scientists Ora and Issac Prilleltensky succinctly summarize the research, noting that:
"People in more egalitarian countries live longer and have better health outcomes."
The issues with inequity
The more inequity in a country, the more people experience their social environment as hostile. This inhibits the creation of wider social networks, along with community trust. Not only do people in inequitable countries experience fewer of the benefits of social networks, they are also less able to access key resources, such as good housing, healthcare, and education. They have fewer or no opportunities for satisfying employment. They are more likely to live in areas with pollution or other health risks and more likely to be victims of crime. And they are continually exposed to the increased stress of an environment that is hostile in large and small ways.
The role of individual involvement
Research indicates that individual empowerment is related to overall community wellbeing, especially when individuals can influence policy decisions. Individual involvement promotes collaboration and a sense of ownership that creates higher levels of satisfaction in the community, as well as increased personal and communal wellbeing.
The British scientist Michael Marmot concludes from his 25 years of research that:
“the opportunities you have for full social engagement and participation are crucial for health, well-being, and longevity."
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Frey, B., Stutzer, A. (2002). Happiness & economics. Princeton, New Jersey: Princeton University Press.
Haworth, J. T., Hart, G., (ed). (2007). Well-being. New York: Palgrave Macmillan.
Marmot, M. (2004). The status syndrome: How social standing affects our health and longevity. New York: Times Books.
Nelson, G., & Prilleltensky, I. (2005). Community psychology: In pursuit of liberation and well-being. New York: Palgrave Macmillan.
Prilleltensky, I., & Prilleltensky, O. (2006). Promoting well-being: Linking personal, organizational, and community change. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
