Fairness

            There are three main principles on how one decides what is fair. They are the principle of equality, the principle of equity and the principle of need. We can see all of the principles in our culture. There are many differences cross culturally that determine how one believes that resources should be allocated with regard to the equity and equality principle. The principle of need tends to be implemented in many regions, such as through social institutions like hospitals that provide healthcare and welfare systems. The principle of equality can be subdivided into a system of seniority. The equality principle states that all members receive the same amount of resources. When this is broken down into the seniority system, time or age also plays a role in how the resources are allocated. So for example, everyone who is working their first year with the company will make the same while everyone working with the company for their 30^th year will make the same, which is more than those working their first year. The principle of equity can also be broken down into a system, the meritocracy system. The principle of equity states that resources be distributed based on the contribution that an individual put forth. The meritocracy system rewards people based on the amount of work they contributed.  A good example of the meritocracy system is working on commission. 

            Many times in my life I have felt that all 3 of these principles are important in deciding fairness. The principle of need has some nicely implemented programs such as healthcare. We are extremely lucky living in Canada to have access to healthcare. As well as welfare for those who need assistance while trying to get their life sorted out. The principle of equality seems to be the dominant influence in my life, as is typical of western cultures. This principle seems to be the most influential to me because the majority of my life and decisions revolves around education at this point. The equity principle also seemed to be influential in my work life. I was being paid on the seniority system. While I worked at the same place for 2 years, I was making the same as my coworkers, with the exception of one employee who was working for her 3^rd summer but this summer as a supervisor. By having this position and title she was making more than us, this reflects the seniority system.

            It is clear that all of these principles of fairness can be seen in our lives daily regardless of what culture we come from. It is more the importance each view holds in different cultures that we can examine cross culturally.