This book makes a significant contribution to the contemporary debate about equality and argues that Christian notions of equality are still challengingly relevant in today's world and in contemporary discussion.A central place is afforded to issues of public policy and economic relationships, since in the author's view a decent community should affirm and demonstrate a commitment to justice in the way it is structured and in its dealings with its members, particularly the poor, the vulnerable and the excluded. Duncan Forrester's book is essential reading on a disturbing topic which most of us acknowledge but with which few of us know how to deal. Like the author, I feel guilty every time I see a beggar on the streets or at the door. I know that in God's sight we are somehow equal, but there is a huge gulf between us. Can it be bridged? What does it require of us? Forrester writes out of a lifetime of wrestling with such questions, and also with passion, clarity, and conviction.' John W de Gruchy, Professor of Christian Studies, University of Cape Town 'This is a profound and moving book: profound in its rigorous engagement with some of the deepest questions in social and political theory; moving in that it attends closely to the impact of poverty and inequality on the lives and prospects of ordinary people.' Raymond Plant, Professor of Politics, University of Southampton Duncan B Forrester is Professor of Theology and Public Issues at the University of Edinburgh. His many books include Theology and Politics, Beliefs, Va/ues and Policies, and Christian justice and Public Policy.