figurative. (See level, v.1 3.) Also with up, down, off, out.

The principle of levelling distinctions in society. In early use spec. the principles advocated by the ‘Levellers’.

The principles of the Levellers.

The practice or principle of not making prejudicial distinctions, esp. on the grounds of a person's race, colour, sex, etc.

Freedom from restrictive or discriminatory social conventions and attitudes.

The fact, condition, or practice of including or involving people from a range of different social and ethnic backgrounds, and (more recently) of…

Belief in the natural equality of mankind.

equal chance and right to seek success in one's chosen sphere regardless of social factors such as class, race, religion, and sex.

the doctrine or condition of such equality.

The bringing into equal membership of a common society those groups or persons previously discriminated against on racial or cultural grounds.