EVOLUTION OF VIEWS ON THE ORIGIN OF THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC INEQUALITY: ANTIQUITY AND MIDDLE AGES

The problem of social inequality appeared at the time of human society formation. Currently, it remains the priority challenge facing any state. In spite of all exertions of the scientists and practicians to find the ways for its decrease, the discussion strengthens. Some stick to the opinion that the inequality is a positive phenomenon allowing an individual to keep his motivation. The rest note that the inequality has many negative consequences both for the society and for the economy. The disputes on the optimal relation of the economic efficiency and social equity continue. There is no single interpretation in the understanding of boundaries of “true” inequality as well. 

The successful solution of the problem at hand requires its comprehensive study and scientific justification taking into account the knowledge the thinkers of antiquity had. The study of their works, which are still on top of their relevancy, will promote very thoughtful analysis of the inequality origin and will allow coming closer to scientific understanding of the dilemma of efficiency and justice.   

The paper considers the views of antique thinkers and scientists-scholastics of Middle Ages on the inequality origin. The author attempts to understand the inequality in the context of history and sets the task to distinguish the statements of great thinkers that are applicable to the realities of modern life. Special attention is paid to the consideration of negative consequences of the increase in the number of rich or poor citizens in the state. The author compares various types of state structure in the context of social inequality and proves the conclusion that new theoretical statements accumulating the achievements of related sciences will promote more thorough, comprehensive understanding of socio-economic inequality origin.