Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen: Equality Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Article.Sentence)

Quote #4

All citizens, being equal in the eyes of the law, are equally eligible to all dignities and to all public positions and occupations, according to their abilities, and without distinction except that of their virtues and talents. (6.3)

Okay, so people aren't literally equal: some are smart, some are short, and some are sleepy, some are dopey, and some are Doc. But the law can only make distinctions based on virtues and talents, not on things like titles and last names.

Quote #5

A common contribution is essential for the maintenance of the public forces and for the cost of administration. This should be equitably distributed among all the citizens in proportion to their means. (13.1-2)

Taxes should be equal and proportionate. A peasant shouldn't pay the same as a banker, but they should pay the same percentage. It's complicated but fair…if they figure out a way to do it.