Leveling the playing field: Social media and the pursuit of opportunity egalitarianism

February 1, 2025 — Social media connects us, informs us, and entertains us, yet it is mostly known for its darker side. What is often overlooked is social media’s profound effect of promoting fairness and equality of opportunity – the opportunity egalitarianism.

The ideal of opportunity egalitarianism, a society where everyone has a fair chance to succeed regardless of their background, has long been a driving force behind social progress. John Rawls' concept of Fair Equality of Opportunity, also known as, opportunity egalitarianism emphasizes the importance of equal access, fair selection, and meritocracy. While challenges to achieving this ideal remain, the rise of social media has, surprisingly, presented some powerful tools contributing to leveling the playing field and fostering a more equitable society.

One of the most significant ways social media promotes opportunity egalitarianism is by democratising access to information and opportunities. Previously, access to certain jobs, educational programs, or networks was often limited by geographical location, social connections, or financial resources. Social media platforms, however, break down these barriers.

Entrepreneurs can now access crowdfunding platforms and artists can showcase their work to a global audience, regardless of their background or connections. This direct access can be particularly beneficial for individuals from underrepresented groups who may face systemic barriers in traditional channels. For example, YouTube has revolutionised the music industry, empowering artists to connect directly with fans globally. It provides a free platform for sharing music, building a following, and even launching careers. From independent musicians to established stars, YouTube offers unprecedented reach and promotional opportunities, fostering a vibrant and diverse musical landscape.

Individuals can now learn about opportunities across the globe, connect with professionals in their desired fields, and access educational resources regardless of their background. A student in a rural village can now learn about scholarships and university programs just as easily as someone living in a major city. This expanded access directly addresses the "equal access" component of opportunity egalitarianism.

Furthermore, social media contributes to fairer selection processes. Social media connects job seekers with potential employers. While biases still exist, online platforms can offer a more transparent and objective way for individuals to showcase their skills and talents. Portfolios, online projects, and digital resumes allow individuals to demonstrate their merit beyond traditional resumes and interviews, potentially mitigating the impact of factors like social connections or implicit bias.

Platforms like LinkedIn, for example, allow individuals to build a professional profile showcasing their achievements and connecting them with potential employers, promoting a more meritocratic system and boosting career prospects. It allows individuals to build online resumes, network with industry professionals, and discover job opportunities. For recruiters, LinkedIn simplifies talent sourcing. This powerful combination connects talent with opportunity, driving career advancement and improving the job market.

Moreover, social media can empower marginalized communities and amplify their voices. It provides a platform for individuals from underrepresented groups to share their experiences, advocate for their needs, and connect with allies. This can be particularly important in challenging systemic inequalities and ensuring that everyone has a fair chance to compete. Social media movements have demonstrably raised awareness about social injustices and pushed for policy changes that promote greater equality of opportunity. For example , X (formerly Twitter)’s free platform allows individuals and organizations to instantly share thoughts, opinions, and news with a global audience. It fosters real-time conversations, facilitates social movements, and provides a space for diverse voices to be heard, making it a powerful tool for self-expression and public discourse.

Of course, the positive impact of social media on opportunity egalitarianism is not without its caveats. The digital divide, the spread of misinformation, and the potential for online harassment can all undermine these benefits. It is crucial to address these challenges through digital literacy initiatives, responsible platform governance, and ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable online environment.

Despite these challenges, social media’s impact of promoting opportunity egalitarianism is undeniable. Social media has changed the traditional norm of fairness and equality of opportunities. It has revolutionised traditional markets of opportunities. By democratizing access to information, fostering fairer selection processes, and empowering marginalized communities, social media has become a powerful tool in the ongoing pursuit of a society where everyone has a fair chance to succeed, regardless of their background.

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