<P> In the substantive approach , the starting point before the race begins is unfair , since people have had differing experiences before even approaching the competition . The substantive approach examines the applicants themselves before applying for a position , and judges whether they have equal abilities or talents , and if not , then it suggests that authorities ( usually the government ) take steps to make applicants more equal before they get to the point where they compete for a position , and fixing the before - the - starting - point issues has sometimes been described as working towards `` fair access to qualifications . '' It seeks to remedy inequalities perhaps because of an `` unfair disadvantage '' based sometimes on `` prejudice in the past . '' </P>
what is the proper role of government relative to equality of opportunity
take steps to make applicants more equal before they get to the point where they compete for a position , and fixing the before - the - starting - point issues has sometimes been described as working towards `` fair access to qualifications . ''