Once you have a strong central authority, you are not equal by definition. The stronger and more centralized the power is, the easier it is for the ruling class

Once you have a strong central authority, you are not equal by definition. The stronger and more centralized the power is, the easier it is for the ruling class to pass the status to their kids. So ambitious people won't dream of starting companies and changing the world. Their only route to success will be to join the party ladder and play political games. USSR in a nutshell.