In our society, the life a person lives is dictated by the background he or she was born into.

Those born rich will probably die rich, while those born poor will continue to live in poverty.

Social prejudices prevent humans from being equal. People with physical disabilities are looked down on: deformed limbs are magnets for curious glances and cruel laughter. Those who are mentally handicapped are treated as inferior.

If there is no disability, people look at family background. Children of parents from the mainland China are discriminated against. After all, who wants to befriend people who don't dress smartly?

Children are warned not to play with those from poor families. People who are less attractive socially or physically are always at a disadvantage.

On the other hand, people born into rich families gain prestige and privileges automatically. Kind words from politicians and gifts from rich friends come flowing in the moment a baby is born.

People step on the poor to worship the rich. Greed and selfishness rule out any chance of equality among humans.

Jocelyn Heng, 15

Maryknoll Convent School

Yes, all humans are entitled to basic equality in terms of human rights and freedom.

In the most fundamental sense, humans are born equal, as they are equal before the law.

Everyone enjoys the same rights in court, and bears the same legal responsibility, regardless of gender, race, profession or social status.

However, humans are not equal when it comes to social obligations. We may all have equal rights, but not equal duties.

The leader of a country has far more responsibilities than someone who manages a local business.

A president's son and an ordinary student have different roles to play.

People have different abilities, but this does not make one person superior to another. We all contribute to society in our own, different way. Perhaps this could be seen as inequality. Everyone does things differently.

But fortunately, the most important aspect of equality is equality before the law.

In this sense, we are all equal and have to be responsible for our individual actions.