The Aristocracy of Talent

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Shortlisted for the 2021 Financial Times and McKinsey & Company Business Book of the Year Award, this unique history explores the misplaced blame on meritocracy for various social issues. It argues that assigning responsibilities to those best suited for them is preferable to corruption, patronage, nepotism, and hereditary systems. Meritocracy, the concept of advancing individuals based on talent rather than birth status, was once a revolutionary idea but became the dominant ideology by the late twentieth century. The author examines how this shift occurred and why meritocracy faces criticism from both political sides today. He traces its development through the efforts of politicians and officials advocating for open competition, psychologists measuring abilities, and educators creating opportunities. The narrative extends beyond Western cultures to highlight the transformative effects of meritocracy, particularly with the inclusion of women. However, the author contends that meritocracy has become corrupted, leading to stagnation in social mobility. Instead of abandoning the concept, he advocates for its renewal to fulfill its original promise.