Alexander says a picture is worth a thousand words…click on it…
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The Octogenarians 
This cartoon gives us reason to examine more closely the concept called privilege. It accurately illustrates how mindsets can evolve such that favor accrues to some over others. This conflicts with a value that claims that all should have “equal” access to opportunities. It can be argued that special favors are not “fair”, and pragmatically, it denies to society the contributions of potential talent.
Thinking minds on both sides of the political spectrum can acknowledge that this, as far as it goes, is true. But importantly, and not considered in this cartoon, there is another aspect of privilege. Some forms of “privilege” are bestowed not by man, but by nature – or just plain luck, as in being born with more talent, or having the good fortune to be born in a healthy, disciplined environment. To a degree, human forces that generate dysfunctional inequities can be corrected. That is why the Constitution was designed to treat every citizen fairly and equally under the law (no matter other differences, natural or psychological). The privileges allotted by nature to some and not to others are not under our control. Nature doesn’t care a whit about the man-invented concepts called “fairness” or “equality”. Therefore it should be clear that some will always be “privileged” over others, no matter the intensity of desire for it to be otherwise. Those privileged in this fashion often have special talents that are of immense value to improving the viability of the human species. It does not work to humanity’s favor if we allow simplistic interpretations of the concepts “fair” and “equal” to motivate us to enact forced redistribution laws that diminish or demean the participation of those who, through no fault of man, are “privileged” to have exceptional ability.
Yes, much in the same manner my recent Georgetown-graduate friend recognized how very fortuitous her circumstances had been when learning that there were many, many students from economically challenged homes/neighborhoods who had met the rigorous academic requirements and been accepted to attend her university. But, alas, they couldn’t attend because of the limited amount of scholarships available … and, no financing available. The message of inequity of opportunity is loud and clear. As Alexander stated, efforts must be supported in society’s redistribution pursuit … at the very least, insecurity and greed controlled. To be sure, results cannot be guaranteed, but the hand must be extended to equal opportunity for the sake of humanity and its survival.
P. S. What fault will be assigned to the children of Flint, Michigan … as well as other communities … for their damaged brains? That bill will be coming …
Reblogged this on daedal2207's Blog.