What is the difference between 'fair' and 'equal'? Is the law fair? Expand.

In theory, everyone is entitled to fair treatment under the law regardless of race, class, gender or beliefs.

Here is an example from the classroom.

1. A special needs student gets test accommodations in the form of a scribe because he has dysgraphia (trouble writing). This is fair; he is getting an equal chance do do well on a test.

2. Everyone who turns in their essay late loses five points a day. This is equal; everyone is receiving the same consequence.

Another example:

1. A man and a woman who do the same job should be paid the same salary. This is equal pay for equal work.

2. Of two people who do the same job and have a chance to earn a bonus, the person who does a better job should earn the bonus. This is fair because he/she has worked harder and done a better job.