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The Tyranny of Merit summary
Brief summary
The Tyranny of Merit by Michael J. Sandel challenges the idea of meritocracy and explores the negative consequences it has on society. Sandel offers thought-provoking insights into the concept of success and advocates for a more just and inclusive society.
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The Tyranny of Merit
Summary of key ideas
Meritocracy and Its Limitations
In The Tyranny of Merit, Michael J. Sandel begins by scrutinizing the idea of meritocracy, which the modern world seems to be enamored with. He argues that it is a flawed principle that contributes to inequality and class resentment. Meritocracy, according to Sandel, implies that individuals' success is wholly dependent on their talents and intellectual abilities and disregards their background and other factors outside their control.
The author goes on to question the prevalent idea of 'rising', stressing how it is underpinned by a misguided understanding of meritocracy. He emphasizes that the promise of rising results in winners and losers, empowering the fortunate and underprivileged in a harmful mix of hubris and resentment. This principle, he argues, fosters a toxic political culture, highlighting how it supported the rise of populist figures who feed on the resentment of individuals considered 'losers' in political debates.
Flaws of Credentialism
Sandel delves deeper into the topic of credentialism, citing it as a prime manifestation of meritocracy. Credentialism, according to Sandel, perpetuates class division by placing high value on university degrees and dismissing the importance and value of non-college educated work and individuals. This hierarchy of work, as he refers to it, alienates those who lack formal education, leading to resentment and social disunity.
Moreover, Sandel points out how elites enjoy the fruit of a society inclined towards credentialism while denying the real advantages they possessed. This leads to the 'rhetoric of rising', which falsely supposes that anyone can succeed with hard work alone, creating a disillusionment among those unable to access the same opportunities.
Revaluating Success and Merit
Sandel advocates for a revaluation of success and merit and values connected to them. He criticizes a narrow definition of success defined by economic advancement and educational attainment. Instead, he proposes a conception of common good that acknowledges the crucial role of luck and fortune in achieving success. By doing so, he hopes to inspire humility among society's winners and respect for the worth of all work.
The author also examines the idea of 'contributive justice' as an alternative to a merit-based system. This approach emphasizes recognizing everyone's contributions to society, regardless of their professional or academic credentials. He proposes policies like a wage subsidy to execute the values of contributive justice, stressing that such interventions could help society to value work properly.
Building a Common Good
Concluding, Sandel argues that to heal the rifts in society, we need to foster solidarity rather than more competition. This starts with rejecting the false dichotomies imposed by meritocracy and credentialism. He proposes rethinking higher education and promoting vocational training to challenge the entrenched notion that a college degree is the only acceptable route to a respectable livelihood.
In essence, The Tyranny of Merit not only critiques meritocracy but also suggests solutions to create societies based on equality, shared responsibility, and mutual respect. Sandel maintains that in redefining success and acknowledging the role of luck in achieving it, we develop a fair society where the common good is prioritized over individual success.
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What is The Tyranny of Merit about?
In "The Tyranny of Merit," Michael J. Sandel challenges the belief that success is solely the result of individual merit and hard work. He argues that this mindset has led to a society that values certain skills and professions over others, creating inequality and resentment. Sandel calls for a reevaluation of our meritocratic ideals and a greater emphasis on the common good. This thought-provoking book offers a compelling critique of our current social and economic systems.
The Tyranny of Merit Review
The Tyranny of Merit (2020) delves into the dark side of meritocracy and urges readers to rethink our societal values. Here are the reasons why this book is worth reading:
- Offers a compelling critique of the notion that success is solely a result of individual effort, highlighting the hidden disadvantages and inequalities of a meritocratic system.
- Provokes thought-provoking questions about the fairness and impact of meritocracy on social cohesion, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and compassionate society.
- By exploring the consequences of meritocracy on society and individuals, it sparks a sense of urgency to challenge our existing beliefs and advocate for change.
Who should read The Tyranny of Merit?
- Individuals who want to critically examine the concept of meritocracy and its impact on society
- Those who are interested in the ethical implications of achievements and success
- Readers who seek a thought-provoking analysis of the relationship between merit and inequality
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The Tyranny of Merit FAQs
What is the main message of The Tyranny of Merit?
The main message of The Tyranny of Merit is that our meritocratic system has led to a society plagued by inequality and unfairness.
How long does it take to read The Tyranny of Merit?
The reading time for The Tyranny of Merit varies from reader to reader. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is The Tyranny of Merit a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Tyranny of Merit is a thought-provoking book that sheds light on the flaws of our meritocracy. It is definitely worth reading for anyone interested in understanding the challenges of our society.
Who is the author of The Tyranny of Merit?
The author of The Tyranny of Merit is Michael J. Sandel.
What to read after The Tyranny of Merit?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Tyranny of Merit, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Why Nations Fail by Daron Acemoglu & James A. Robinson
- The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama
- The Road to Serfdom by Friedrich August von Hayek
- Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
- Manufacturing Consent by Edward S. Herman and Noam Chomsky
- No Logo by Naomi Klein
- The Bottom Billion by Paul Collier
- The Shock Doctrine by Naomi Klein
- Brave New War by John Robb
- Man, the State and War by Kenneth N. Waltz