Question

Explain the arguments for and against Affirmative Action. Are programs like Affirmative Action still needed? Is the Texas plan to admit the top students from each high school a better alternative? Why or why not?

Answer 1

Affirmative action means giving preference to disadvantaged or minority , in policies of government. It is based on positive discrimination.

The advantages

It helps in reducing inequality. Those marginalised get an edge and boost to move up the ladder quickly.

It helps in bringing diversity to work places. Minorities would not have reached many offices without affirmative action.

It reduces racism. People at many places are exposed to minority group people which help them break their stereotype.

Its disadvantages

It leads to reverse discrimination. When a person from majority see someone from minority getting passed over him just because of preferences , it creates a new discrimination

Injustice to meritocracy. Merit is compromised and given back seat which may lead to adverse effect on efficiency of organisations.

Considering pros and cons , I think such program are not needed today as minority in US has reached a level where they can be termed equal. There are many majority people who have moved to poverty whereas many minority have become rich enough to become Influential. Such policies have fulfilled their purpose to large extent and continuing it further has more adverse impact than positives.

Texas policy is certainly an alternative as it leads to more positive discrimination. It just don't stick to race rather takes into account all factors such as race , sociological economic status and region.