TED: The tyranny of merit | Michael Sandel

The video discusses the deepening divide in civic life, exacerbated by meritocracy, which fosters inequality and elitism. It critiques the meritocratic ideal, highlighting its flaws and the resulting populist backlash. The video suggests rethinking the role of education, valuing work dignity, and redefining success. It calls for recognizing essential workers and fostering humility to promote a more inclusive and generous public life.

What is one of the main criticisms of the meritocratic ideal discussed in the video?

• It promotes equal opportunities for all.

• It leads to a fair distribution of wealth.

• It encourages collaboration among different social classes.

• It creates a divide between winners and losers.

How do many working people perceive the advice to 'go to college' in the context of globalization?

• As a way to bridge the gap between rich and poor.

• As an insult implying their failure is their own fault.

• As a helpful suggestion for career advancement.

• As a guarantee of success in the global economy.

What does the video suggest about the role of universities in society?

• They should only admit students from affluent backgrounds.

• They should broaden access but not be the only path to success.

• They should focus on meritocratic competition.

• They should be the sole arbiters of opportunity.

According to the video, what should be placed at the center of our politics?

• The pursuit of wealth.

• The expansion of universities.

• The dignity of work.

• The reduction of taxes.

What does Martin Luther King Jr.'s reflection on labor emphasize?

• Physicians are more important than sanitation workers.

• Labor is only about earning money.

• Only high-paying jobs have dignity.

• All labor, regardless of pay, has dignity.

What is the suggested moral shift regarding success and merit?

• To focus solely on personal achievements.

• To recognize the role of luck and embrace humility.

• To attribute all success to hard work alone.

• To ignore the contributions of others.

What is the ultimate goal of moving beyond the 'tyranny of merit'?

• To foster a less divisive and more generous public life.

• To create a more competitive society.

• To eliminate all forms of meritocracy.

• To ensure everyone attends college.