Episode #205 ... Why a meritocracy is corrosive to society. (Michael Sandel)

Summary

In this thought-provoking discussion, Steven West explores the concept of meritocracy, questioning its societal benefits as presented by Michael Sandell in 'The Tyranny of Merit.' West delves into the unintended consequences of a merit-based society, highlighting how it can lead to a divisive social hierarchy, resentment among the less successful, and a flawed system that overlooks external factors influencing individual success. Sandell suggests that humility, civic virtue, and a reevaluation of societal norms are necessary to address the inequalities and resentments that meritocracy perpetuates.

Takeaways

• 🗳️ The script discusses the concept of meritocracy and its implications in society, as explored by Michael Sandel in his book 'The Tyranny of Merit'.
• 🤔 It questions the assumption that a society based purely on meritocratic principles is inherently good, highlighting potential negative consequences.
• 🏆 The transcript points out that while meritocracy may reward hard work and talent, it can also lead to a society that feels entitled and dismissive of those less fortunate.
• 💡 Sandel suggests that even if a perfect meritocracy could be achieved, it might still result in a flawed society with its own set of problems.
• 👥 The script acknowledges that factors beyond individual control, such as economic policy and historical context, play a significant role in a person's success or failure.
• 📚 It critiques the overemphasis on formal education and credentials as the primary means of achieving social recognition and success.
• 🛠️ The discussion calls for a reevaluation of the value of different types of work and the need to restore dignity to all forms of labor, not just those with high credentials.
• 🌐 Sandel argues that the meritocratic mindset can lead to resentment and populism, as people feel alienated and undervalued by a system that seems to favor the elite.
• 🤝 The transcript emphasizes the importance of humility in recognizing the role of luck and societal structures in individual success.
• 🌱 Sandel advocates for a shift in societal norms to appreciate the contributions of all citizens, not just those with formal education or wealth.
• 📉 The script uses the example of changing economic conditions from 1980 to 2024 to illustrate how external factors can significantly impact an individual's ability to thrive, regardless of merit.

Q & A

What is the main topic discussed in the script?

The main topic discussed in the script is the concept of meritocracy and its critique as presented by Michael Sandel in his book 'The Tyranny of Merit'.

What does the term 'meritocracy' refer to?

The term 'meritocracy' refers to a system where the rewards of a society are distributed based on an individual's talent, hard work, and qualifications.

What are the two main problems Michael Sandel identifies with the theoretical idea of meritocracy?

The two main problems Michael Sandel identifies are: 1) that we do not actually achieve a true meritocracy in practice, and 2) that even if we could, a perfect meritocracy would still be a flawed way to structure society.

Why does Sandel argue that the idea of meritocracy can lead to societal resentment and populism?

Sandel argues that the idea of meritocracy can lead to resentment and populism because it creates a narrative where those who are unsuccessful are seen as deserving their fate, which ignores external factors beyond their control. This breeds anger towards the perceived elite and can fuel populist movements.

What is the historical origin of the term 'meritocracy'?

The term 'meritocracy' was originally coined by Michael Young in his 1958 book 'The Rise of the Meritocracy', which depicted a dystopian future where society is organized around meritocratic principles.

How does Sandel connect the concept of meritocracy to the way people view education?

Sandel connects the concept of meritocracy to education by pointing out that in a meritocratic society, education is often seen as a means to acquire credentials rather than a pursuit of knowledge or personal growth, leading to 'meritocratic warfare' for social and economic advantage.

What is the role of humility in Sandel's critique of meritocracy?

Humility plays a significant role in Sandel's critique as he believes that recognizing the limits of individual control over life outcomes and the importance of external factors can counteract the prideful narrative of meritocracy that everyone gets exactly what they deserve.

What does Sandel suggest as a solution to the issues raised by meritocratic thinking?

Sandel suggests a shift in societal norms and values, focusing on the restoration of the dignity of work, the importance of civic virtue, and the need for a political project that acknowledges the complexity of inequality beyond individual merit.

How does Sandel view the relationship between individual upward mobility and inequality?

Sandel views individual upward mobility as an insufficient explanation for all the factors that lead to inequality, arguing that a more collective understanding is needed to address the systemic and structural causes of inequality.

What is the unintended consequence of meritocracy in the context of education, according to Sandel?

According to Sandel, the unintended consequence of meritocracy in the context of education is the transformation of learning into a private industry focused on credentials rather than genuine education, which can devalue the contributions of those without formal qualifications.

What is the role of voting and political representation in Sandel's view on overcoming meritocratic biases?

Sandel believes that voting for representatives who are genuinely from diverse backgrounds and possess practical wisdom, rather than just academic credentials, can help overcome meritocratic biases and restore a more balanced view of societal value and contribution.