Final answer:
The question deals with why governments are allowed to discriminate legally through certain laws, even with an equal protection clause. Legal discrimination is permissible if it serves a legitimate and rational governmental interest and is not arbitrary. Examples include age restrictions for driving, smoking, and drinking, and educational requirements for college admissions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question you're asking is about why the federal, state, and local governments are allowed to enact laws and policies that might appear to be discriminatory but are legally justified. The equal protection clause requires that individuals in similar situations be treated equally by the law. However, discrimination in law can still occur if it is rational and serves a legitimate government interest. For example, age requirements for smoking and alcohol consumption are based on health and public safety concerns, which are deemed rational and protecting the welfare of the community. Similarly, requiring a minimum age, knowledge, and practical skills for a driver's license is to ensure public safety on roads. Educational requirements like a high school diploma or test scores for college admission aim to maintain educational standards. These forms of discrimination are termed 'legal discrimination' because they serve a clear and rational governmental interest and are not arbitrary or oppressive.