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The Meritocracy Trap
448 pages, 2019
economics & politics
987 booksA revolutionary new argument from eminent Yale Law professor Daniel Markovits attacking the false promise of meritocracy is an axiom of American life that advantage should be earned through ability and effort.
Even as the country divides itself at every turn, the meritocratic ideal – that social and economic rewards should follow achievement rather than breeding – reigns supreme. Both Democrats and Republicans insistently repeat meritocratic notions. Meritocracy cuts to the heart of who we are.
It sustains the American dream. But what if, both up and down the social ladder, meritocracy is a sham? Today, meritocracy has become exactly what it was conceived to resist: a mechanism for the concentration and dynastic transmission of wealth and privilege across generations. Upward mobility has become a fantasy, and the embattled middle classes are now more likely to sink into the working poor than to rise into the professional elite.
In The Meritocracy Trap, Daniel Markovits explores the concept of meritocracy and how it has become a trap. He argues that the system, which was initially designed to promote fairness, has now become a tool for the rich to consolidate wealth and power. It's a fascinating look into the paradox of meritocracy.
Markovits digs into the role of education in the meritocracy trap. He finds that elite education has become a way for the rich to maintain their status, rather than a means for the less privileged to climb the social ladder. This is a thought-provoking perspective that challenges conventional views on education.
The Meritocracy Trap also explores the impact of meritocracy on the middle class. Markovits argues that the middle class is being squeezed out, as the rich get richer and the poor struggle to break free from poverty. It's a sobering look at the realities of income inequality.
One of the key takeaways from The Meritocracy Trap is the myth of meritocracy. Markovits argues that meritocracy is not as fair as it seems, as it often rewards those who are already privileged. This book will make you rethink your views on success and fairness.
Finally, Markovits doesn't just identify the problems, he also offers solutions. He suggests ways to break free from the meritocracy trap and create a more equitable society. If you're interested in social justice and economic equality, you'll definitely want to check out his suggestions.
Quotes 3
The Meritocracy Trap is a thought-provoking book that challenges the way we think about education and work.
Bill Gates - Microsoft Co-founderMarkovits's book is a powerful and important analysis of the toxic and self-defeating system we call meritocracy.
David Brooks - Political commentatorThe Meritocracy Trap is a compelling book that exposes the myth of meritocracy.
Martin Wolf - Economic journalist