What curse does the narrator claim to have when he was born? Why is this significant?

From the text:

We were born with a curse. It has always driven us to thoughts which are forbidden. It has always given us wishes which men may not wish. We know that we are evil, but there is no will in us and no power to resist it. This is our wonder and our secret fear, that we know and do not resist.

This quote is significant because it illustrates Equality's individualistic traits. Unlike the others, Equality does wish.... he does have dreams, and he does have an insatiable desire for knowledge. Being unable to act upon these instincts is what he considers his curse.