Glossary

Equality of opportunity

The principle that people should have the same chance to succeed, judged by talent and effort and not by birth, race or connections.

Also called: equal opportunity, level playing field, meritocracy

Equality of opportunity is the idea that all people should be able to compete for jobs, education and advancement on fair terms, so that success depends on ability and effort rather than on factors like race, sex, family wealth or connections. It is often described as "the American dream."

Legally, it is reflected in the Equal Protection Clause, civil rights laws against discrimination and the principle of careers open to talent. Politically, people debate how far it requires action beyond banning discrimination, such as public investment in schools, early-childhood programs or measures to remedy past discrimination, since children start with different resources.

Most Americans across parties endorse equality of opportunity, but they disagree about what it requires. Conservatives generally emphasize equal rules, merit, family stability, educational choice and economic growth, and often say that policies that treat people differently by group violate the principle, a view applied to diversity, equity and inclusion programs. Progressives emphasize structural barriers and favor policies that adjust for them. The principle is usually contrasted with equality of outcome, and a related philosophical idea is positive liberty.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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Related terms

Equality of outcome The idea that policy should aim to produce similar results, such as incomes or representation, across individuals or groups. Positive liberty Freedom understood as the capacity to act on one's own will and fulfill one's potential, which may require resources or public support. Equal Protection Clause The Fourteenth Amendment guarantee that no state may deny any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws. School choice Policies that let families use public education funds or tax benefits to select schools beyond their assigned district school. Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) Organizational policies and programs aimed at diversity of people, equitable treatment and inclusion, which have become contested politically.