Meritocracy
Meritocracy is a system of government based on rule by ability rather than by wealth or social position. Ironically, the term was first used in a pejorative sense in Michael Young's[?] 1958 book, the Rise of the Meritocracy which was written from a standpoint of an future in which one's social place was determined by IQ plus effort. In the book, this social system ultimately leads to social revolution which as the masses overthrows the elite, who have become arrogant and disconnected with the feelings of the public.Despite the negative origin of the word, there are many who believe that a meritocratic system is a good thing for society. Proponents of meritocracy argue that a meritocratic system is more just and more productive than other systems, and allows for the end to distinctions based on social class or race.
There have been other criticisms of the notion of meritocracy in addition to Young's original criticism that system in which social position was determined by objective characteristics would still be unegalitarian and unstable. One which is often made by proponents of critical theory concept argue that merit is defined by the power elite simply to legitimize a system in which social status is actually determined by class, birth, and wealth.
Most governmental systems contain some element of meritocracy. For instance, in most representative democracies, parties and voters use the performance of candidates in campaigning or in office to determine who should be re-elected and what senior positions they may hold. Elected officers usually also hire expert advisers to help formulate policies. Theoretically, communist systems of government will promote those who are competent in minor decision-making roles to higher office. However, pure meritocracies are virtually unknown.
See: aristocracy
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full height with the cool composure which he attained most easily when
greatest rascal in Germany. You will be robbed of your joust with him,
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Oh, my lord, if you only knew!"
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indignantly: "It might move a stone to pity to know the wrong the
betrothed bride of a brave man--and the abominable names bestowed on the
beautiful Es."
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breathes destroy the slandering scoundrel! May I be flayed on the rack
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could by no means succeed in regaining his former composure as, drawing
themselves Christians, and build costly cathedrals for the good of their
Lord and Saviour, who is Love itself, and deemed even the Magdalen worthy
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which defiles both body and soul, join us, who did so before you, and
dishonouring the name of Christ better and purer, genuine Christians.
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shield and helmet, I will dash like the angel Michael amongst the
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