"現代の大量生産が商品の標準化を必要とするように、社会的プロセスも人間の標準化を必要とし、この標準化を平等と呼ぶ。"

Think about the world we live in today. We’re surrounded by products that are identical, easily recognizable, and reliable because they meet certain standards. When you walk into a store and pick up a light bulb or a loaf of bread, you know what to expect. This consistency is because of mass production, which thrives on standardization. The same idea, in a way, applies to society and people. For society to function smoothly, we often end up conforming to certain norms and behaviors. This is what we call equality.

Historically, this concept has roots deep in the industrial revolution. Factories churned out products in large quantities. Everything from cars to clothes was made to be identical, ensuring that everyone got the same product. This same period saw the rise of a middle class that increasingly looked, acted, and lived similarly. There was a societal push towards creating a more uniform, ‘equal’ society.

Now, let’s bring this idea to life with a real-world example. Imagine a classroom. For the teacher to manage and teach effectively, students are often asked to follow similar rules. They sit in rows, raise their hands to speak, and complete the same assignments. This ‘standardization’ ensures that the class runs smoothly and that each student gets an equal chance to learn.

But how does this apply to your life? Well, think about your workplace. There are certain expectations—punctuality, dress codes, and specific ways to interact with clients or colleagues. These standards help create a harmonious environment where everyone knows what to expect and how to behave. By adhering to these norms, you contribute to a stable, predictable work environment.

Here’s some practical advice: Embrace these standards, but don’t lose your individuality. It's okay to fit into the broader societal norms, but also find ways to express your unique self. Maybe it’s through your ideas, your creativity, or the way you approach problems.

Now, let’s dive into a scenario that illustrates this. Imagine you're at a coffee shop with a friend. The place is buzzing with people grabbing their morning coffee. There’s a clear system—people line up, place their order, and wait. This system, this standardization, ensures that everyone gets their coffee efficiently. Now, picture one person trying to jump the line or ordering in a way that disrupts the flow. It throws everything off balance, right? That’s why we have these social ‘rules’—they keep things running smoothly.

So next time you’re in a situation where you feel the pressure to conform, remember this: it’s not just about losing yourself in the crowd. It’s about finding balance. Contribute to the harmony while holding onto what makes you, you. By doing so, you’re not just a part of the system; you’re an essential piece that helps it function while adding your unique touch.