SMU final-year law student Dickson Lee commented that a strong sense of self-entitlement based on inherited talents or even birthright should be rejected, if Singapore wishes to stem or reverse income inequality. Revamping our institutions, therefore, calls for a closer look at our governing philosophies of meritocracy, including beliefs about levelling the starting points, and the type of ideals we inculcate in our youth. Referencing American philosopher John Rawls’ social contract theory on “justice as fairness”, Mr Lee pointed out an alternative to our current meritocracy: A society where the gifted are encouraged to develop and exercise their talents, yet at the same time understanding that the rewards reaped belong to the community. In this, a more inspiring vision of equality can be realised.