Question

Here are some arguments in favour of the right to vote for women.

Which of these are consistent with the idea of equality? Give reasons.

(a) Women are our mothers. We shall not disrespect our mothers by denying them the right to vote.

(b) Decisions of the government affect women as well as men, therefore they also should have a say in choosing the rulers.

(c) Not granting women the right to vote will cause disharmony in the family.

(d) Women constitute half of humanity. You cannot subjugate them for long by denying them the right to vote.

Answer 1

(a) It is not consistent with the idea of equality as this is not based on the principles of equality but this argument emanates from our emotions.

(b) It is consistent with the idea of equality as this argument is based on the impact of the decision-making process on women and hence, their right to choose the decision-makers.

(c) It is not consistent with the idea of equality as it is concerned more with the disintegration of the family rather than giving women equal opportunity to choose their representatives.

(d) It is consistent with the idea of equality as this argument is based on rational thinking. Women are considered equal to men in the composition of society and are therefore given equal importance and opportunity to cast their vote.