The moral imperatives for diversity

The debate over diversity and affirmative action remains contentious at best and divisive or polarizing at worst. The profession of orthopaedics, like all elite professions, is very much involved in this debate. Starting with the assumption that there are reasonable arguments on both sides of this question, this paper will search for common ground by focusing on three issues: the ethical and pragmatic reasons for overcoming the present effects of past discrimination; the importance of ensuring the clinical and cultural competence of the specialty of orthopaedics in taking care of a diverse population; and the value of preserving a commitment to equality.