This paper assesses human inequality and its consequences for the formulation of educational policy in South Africa. Various forms of human inequality, such as achievement, potential, lifestyle, life changes, credentials, aptitudes, and interests are discussed, as are psychological and sociopolitical solutions that have been proposed to remedy these imbalances. Ways that school systems can be designed to allow for and promote equal education, equal access, and equal opportunity are then considered. Next, the paper evaluates inequality in South African education by comparing educational access and input for whites and for the rest of the society. The author holds that educational decision making and policy formation are inextricably related to political power of South African populations, and that truly equal education will serve as a major vehicle toward national unity. (AOS)