In terms of nature… all men are obviously not equal. Nature obviously favors some genes over others… such as slightly longer legs, or thicker tooth enamel – in nature these difference add up to survival or none survival. However, in terms of the individual as a conscious being, we have to a degree, stepped out side of nature “red-in-tooth-and-claw”. This consciousness that seems to separate us from nature, is the one thing that leads to an equality needing protection. Craig H.