

#3265
Mentioned in 8 episodes
The Meritocracy Trap
Book • 2019
In *The Meritocracy Trap*, Daniel Markovits argues that meritocracy, rather than being a virtuous and efficient system, has become the single greatest obstacle to equal opportunities in America.
The book exposes how meritocracy breeds inequality, ensnares even those at the top in intense work regimes, and prevents social mobility.
Markovits, drawing from his extensive experience at elite universities, provides a comprehensive critique of the meritocratic system, highlighting its corrosive effects on both the middle class and the elite.
He also discusses the need for a new perspective that moves beyond the current meritocratic narrative to achieve a more equitable society.
The book exposes how meritocracy breeds inequality, ensnares even those at the top in intense work regimes, and prevents social mobility.
Markovits, drawing from his extensive experience at elite universities, provides a comprehensive critique of the meritocratic system, highlighting its corrosive effects on both the middle class and the elite.
He also discusses the need for a new perspective that moves beyond the current meritocratic narrative to achieve a more equitable society.
Mentioned by
















Mentioned in 8 episodes
Mentioned by 

when discussing meritocracy and its potential failures.


Mike Maughan

88 snips
181. What’s So Great About Meritocracy?
Mentioned by Jennifer Breheny Wallace in agreement with 

's critique of elitism in higher education.


Scott Galloway

57 snips
Conversation with Jennifer B. Wallace — What to Do About Toxic Achievement Culture
Mentioned by 

as a book discussing the downsides of the American meritocracy.


Amy Chua

17 snips
The Tiger Mom Won't Stop Roaring
Mentioned by 

when discussing the impacts of a competitive education system.


Thomas Curran

17 snips
114. Is Perfectionism Ruining Your Life?
Mentioned by 

as a book that is right on the mark of the conversation about societal advance and harnessing people's talents and desires.


Ezra Klein

When meritocracy wins, everybody loses
Recommended by ![undefined]()

as a book applicable to Indian society, discussing meritocracy.

Saurabh Mukherjea

Top Investing Tips for 2025 with Saurabh Mukherjea and Nandita Rajhansa
Mentioned by 

as the author of the book discussed in the podcast.


Sam Harris

#205 — The Failure of Meritocracy
Mentioned by 

as one of the books he read about meritocracy.


Aaron Rabinowitz

Reconsidering Anti-wokeness with Jonathan Church
Mentioned by 

when discussing his book on meritocracy and its impact on inequality.


Sam Harris

Moral Illusions
Mentioned by 

as a critique of meritocracy and its negative impacts.


Scott Galloway

DoorDash is still stealing tips. And is Tesla for sale?
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

as another author who has written on the topic of meritocracy.

David Goodhart

The Problem with Meritocracy - David Goodhart