Making Sense with Sam Harris
#205 — The Failure of Meritocracy
May 22, 2020
In a thought-provoking discussion, Daniel Markovits, a Yale law professor and author of The Meritocracy Trap, explores the pitfalls of meritocracy. He argues that instead of fostering equal opportunity, it entrenches societal inequalities, creating a new caste system. The conversation delves into the impact of the education system on wealth disparity and the challenges faced by the shrinking middle class. Markovits also critiques the elite's reluctance to support wealth redistribution, emphasizing the need for fair taxation and shared responsibility in addressing systemic inequalities.
58:59
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Quick takeaways
- Meritocracy, once seen as a means to equal opportunities, now perpetuates inequality and blocks social mobility.
- Growing economic inequality in the US has led to a decline in social mobility and a concentration of wealth among the elite, leaving the middle class struggling to move up the economic ladder.
Deep dives
The Flaws of Meritocracy
The podcast episode delves into the flaws of meritocracy, challenging the widely accepted concept that individuals should be rewarded based on their own accomplishments rather than their social status or background. The guest, Daniel Markovitz, argues that while meritocracy initially aimed to break down caste barriers and provide equal opportunities, it has become a mechanism that perpetuates inequality and blocks social mobility. The discussion highlights how the elite, who have excelled under the meritocratic system, have created a cycle of privilege by meticulously training their children and investing heavily in their education, making it increasingly difficult for middle and working-class families to keep up.
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