Equity as a Model for Civic Discourse: Bridging Law, Justice, and Collective Reasoning

Abstract

The renewed focus on equity in higher education is a positive development, as genuine equity fosters constructive dialogue and enhances collective reasoning. When applied appropriately, the principles of equity in jurisprudence exemplify civil discourse, offering a framework for effective civic engagement. Equitable legal interpretation encourages charitable understanding among individuals, while its deference to law promotes collaborative problem-solving. Law, as a form of shared practical reasoning, is upheld and complemented by equity, which seeks to advance justice without undermining legal frameworks. These functions of equity in adjudication provide a broader model for practical reasoning and civic discourse. This paper employs jurisprudential methods to explore these themes.