EQUALITY EQUITY IN THEORY EQUITY IN REALITY CAPITALISM MARXISM SOCIALISM
The image is a satirical cartoon consisting of six panels that depict three stylized characters of varying heights trying to watch a baseball game over a fence. Each panel represents different social or economic systems and concepts: Equality, Equity (In Theory), Equity (In Reality), Capitalism, Marxism, and Socialism. The humor in the image is derived from exaggerated representations of the outcomes each system might produce in a simplified and whimsical context.
In the "Equality" panel, we see three characters, each of varying heights, standing on identically sized boxes. The tallest character can see over the fence with ease, the middle one can just see over, while the shortest cannot see the game at all. This simplistic representation suggests that equal treatment does not necessarily lead to equal outcomes due to inherent differences between individuals.
Next, the "Equity (In Theory)" panel shows an attempt to compensate for these differences by giving the shortest character two boxes, the middle one one box, and the tallest none. Now, all three characters can watch the game, illustrating the concept of equity where resources are distributed based on individual needs. This is often the idealized version of equity presented in theoretical discussions.
The "Equity (In Reality)" panel humorously contradicts the previous one, by showing the tallest character having taken the second box from the shortest character, now having two, while the shortest has none and is consequently lying on the ground. This represents a cynical take on equity, suggesting that in real-world implementations, those with more power or advantage might still find a way to come out ahead, even when the system intends to be fair.
In the "Capitalism" panel, we see a large stack of boxes creating a pyramid structure, with the tallest character at the top on one box, the middle character in the middle on a few boxes, and the shortest character with a vast number of boxes but still on the ground level. It suggests that while everyone has access to boxes (resources), the accumulation tends to benefit those who already have an advantage, with the most disadvantaged having a lot of unused potential (boxes) but not the means to effectively utilize them.
The "Marxism" panel appears to take a jab at revolutionary outcomes, presenting the characters and boxes in disarray. The shortest character seems to have attempted to claim the boxes, but all characters appear injured or incapacitated, with boxes scattered and no one able to watch the game. This possibly implies a pessimistic view of radical systemic change leading to conflict and negative results for all parties involved.
Lastly, the "Socialism" panel shows all three characters standing at equal height without any boxes, as the fence has been removed, allowing an unobstructed view of the game. This idealizes socialism as a system where structural barriers are removed rather than redistributing resources to overcome existing barriers. It humorously suggests a utopian resolution where the root of the inequity (the fence) is eliminated instead of managing resources to compensate for it.
Overall, the humor in this image stems from the oversimplification and stereotyping of complex social and economic systems to fit a humorous narrative about attending a baseball game. It plays on viewers' understanding and preconceived notions about these systems, invoking laughter through exaggerated scenarios and unexpected outcomes. EQUALITY EQUITY IN THEORY EQUITY IN REALITY CAPITALISM MARXISM SOCIALISM
