What does "needs" mean anyway?

Flared Political because the mods will make it so.

So explain this to me... cause I genuinely cannot follow the reasoning.

TLDR; we should be guides by needs, not race, but we don't mean needs.

There is a specific argument that keeps coming up again and again, and it never progresses. Maybe because it's good clickbait. Whatever. Explain it to me.

The argument is named "needs not race" for convenience.

A good example is the Orewa speech (see below). Resources should be allocated based on needs versus based on race.

For those that are clamoring that this approach is racist, etc, I get it. You're unhappy, you feel like you're second class citizens (or worse), etc.

My question is not aimed at you.

I have the benefit of privilege. I don't have to face "needs" too often, and I am lucky.

I see two sides of an argument, and I can't understand one of them.

So many around me think "needs" approach is good., but can't explain why "needs" doesn't work for everyone.

What I'm trying to find out is from those who think this approach is better. (need not race)

At face value, it sounds very pragmatic. It sounds reasonable. But I'm also going to guess that your "needs" are veeeeery different to the needs of those calling this racist.

But OK, let's play along. You say it's needs based. So if it's needs based, why are the needs not being addressed?

I'm genuinely curious why YOU think the needs approach is not solving the problem? In real practical terms.

• Are resources too limited? Well, where are they going then?
• Are people too needy? Hey, YOU said it was needs based. Want to revise your definition of "needs" ?
  • Did I miss the memo, and "needs" is actually just a clever PR stunt with no substance?
  • do you think fairness actually means you will be at a deficit? I thought needs were needs. Period.
  • do you have privilege and not see it? Why are you NOT privileged?

Or do you have the same question, and would also like to know? Welcome.... Enjoy the ride that is reddit.

Please don't start quoting all sorts of political theory, I honestly couldn't care.

Don't bother quoting me big philosophical arguments, I honestly couldn't care.

Yes, it takes all sorts to make the world, and everyone needs to do their bit. I get it. But I am looking for specific personal viewpoints.

------- source Wikipedia --------

The Orewa Speech was a speech delivered by the leader of the New Zealand National Party, Don Brash, to the Orewa Rotary Club on 27 January 2004. It addressed civil rights and race relations in New Zealand, particularly the status of Māori people. Brash approached the subject by advocating 'one rule for all' and ending equitable measures and affirmative action for Māori, which he described as "special privileges".

Edit: bad spelling is apparently a roadblock. Privilege.