Dealing with the Unfairness of Life

Life is not fair. That is one of the oldest truths in the world, though it has worn many names-luck, fate, destiny, and chance. Some of us are born into wealth and security, while others are born into deprivation so deep that even survival is uncertain. The circumstances of our birth-geography, family, health, opportunity-all shape the boundaries of what is possible long before we have any say in the matter. But it doesn't have to be that way. It is tempting to view unfairness as an unchangeable fact of life-to shrug and say that it is simply part of the human condition. Yet history suggests otherwise. Over the last two centuries, societies have expanded the boundaries of fairness by abolishing slavery, extending rights to women, creating safety nets for the poor, and recognizing education and health as universal needs. The message is clear: while unfairness cannot be completely eliminated, it can at least be narrowed, softened, and made less damning in its effects.