In this article, we explore the impact of the global cultural transformation
that reconciles the values of equality and difference as parameters of the
good life. Focusing on the way Brazilians perceive both equality and
difference, we comment on the uncertain consequences of the interplay of old
and new repertoires of social identity and inclusion. In particular, we look
at the ethnoracial aspect, the most salient issue on the current debate about
difference. Empirically, we analyze perceptions of inequality and difference
among different segments of the Brazilian population. In particular, we focus
on two issues. First, we discuss the interface of ethnoracial and national
identifications in the country. Second, we explore perceptions about
inequality and difference and their relationship, with special emphasis on
attitudes towards affirmative action – the most traditional policy to take
into account particular identities while distributing social resources – among
distinct socioeconomic and racial groups