Meritocracy Meritocracy
Chapter 07

THE
SORTING
MACHINE

We claim to reward "merit". But who defines what merit is?

Define The Algorithm

Select the lens through which to judge value.

ADMIT THRESHOLD (85)
BASE
Legacy
Rejected
BASE
Admitted
BASE
Rejected
BASE
Admitted

* Note how the "Legacy" block exists regardless of the lens. The debate often focuses on racial preference while ignoring wealth preference.

THE
CORE
ARGUMENT

Dworkin's Defense

"There is no such thing as a 'right' to be judged solely on academic criteria. Universities define their mission. If diversity serves that mission, then racial background is a valid merit."

The conflict isn't just about fairness; it's about the purpose of institutions. Is a university a prize for the smart, or a tool for social engineering?

Arguing Affirmative Action | Justice: What's the Right Thing to Do? | Vibary