Mary Douglas was a well-known British social theorist and anthropologist who wrote extensively on sociology, religion, and anthropology. One of her noteworthy observations centers on the difficulties in attaining actual equality in societies.

Douglas maintained that true equality is more complicated than it may appear. Everyone wants to feel equal, but each person has a different weight, so it's like trying to balance a seesaw. You must continuously make adjustments and keep an eye on who sits where and for how long in order to maintain equilibrium. This ongoing adjustment is a reflection of the ongoing work required to guarantee that no one feels excluded or unduly favored.

Douglas also noted that there is little space for individual cushions or buffers in the context of true equality. People will constantly run into each other's needs and wants, which could occasionally cause arguments or annoyance. It's similar to a packed dance floor where everyone is doing their best to move elegantly but occasionally trips over someone else's toes.

This viewpoint draws attention to the continuous battle societies have to fight for inclusivity and justice. Although equality may appear to be a goal that can be attained with a single push, Douglas contends that it necessitates ongoing care and modification, much like preserving a fragile ecosystem in which every component is essential to the survival of the whole.