Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to search for an "ethical" interpretation of equality. Although the current South African approach of "substantive" equality is better than mere "formal" equality, I fear that even substantive equality will again deny or reduce difference. An "ethical" interpretation of equality is a way of interpretation that radically acknowledges difference and otherness. ;I argue for an ethical interpretation of equality as an alternative to substantive and formal equality. The intersection between public space, equality and justice is essential to such an ethical interpretation. An ethical interpretation of equality requires that present South African visions of public space must be reconstructed and transformed continuously. This means that an ethical interpretation of equality rejects finality and closure in respect of public space. The visions of public space and perspectives of equality that I support are alert to difference and otherness. ;My understanding of justice is that it is never fully achieved in the present. Justice functions as a future orientated ideal. ;The "ethical" in an ethical interpretation of equality reflects an awareness of the limits of any present system to encompass equality and justice completely. ;Visions of public space, perspectives on equality and landscapes of justice form the main sections of the thesis. I discuss the South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission as a manifestation of the ethical intersection between public space, equality and justice. The TRC was an outstanding example of reconstruction and transformation of public space. It was a public space where each and every individual was treated equally while concrete contexts, specific circumstances and difference were taken into account. The TRC as event was inspired by the ideal of justice. The value of the TRC as a manifestation of the ethical intersection is the profound effect it may have on our interpretation of equality by demonstrating the limits of the substantive approach