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Sea Sentry's avatar

When humans were hunter/gatherers and had to carry everything they owned, there was arguably little inequality. Yet even then, some humans found an abundance of game and flourished, while others starved. Some fought and prevailed while others fought and perished. It is a fine thing to support equality of opportunity. I certainly do. But with respect to equality of outcomes, it's not going to happen unless it's compelled, and none of us want to live in that world. Humans - even from the same country, tribe and even family - react in a variety of ways to the same event. We should work hard for equality of opportunity, but have the respect to get out of people's way as they choose their own unique paths in life.

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Chris's avatar

Interested in reading Odeds book. I think the point of geography is of vital importance. Thomas Sowell's books on cultures and migrations are a great overview in this area. Sub-Saharan Africa was isolated from other burgeoning nations and sparsely interacted with. A quick look at say, Herodotus and his writing about what he called "Libya" and the prevailing understanding of how much actual continent that was there unexplored is typical for that time frame (BC). Having no control of the Mediterranean waterway and the trade, culture, etc.. that that brings was a big disadvantage. This same case is shown in Amazonian tribes and aborigines who were quite isolated as well.

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