Affirmative Action Within Private Institutions is Counter-Productive
The Supreme Court listened to testimonials for affirmative action at Harvard University last year. CRAIG F. WALKER / THE BOSTON GLOBE VIA GETTY IMAGES
Affirmative action, designed to repair historical racial disparities, has become a contentious policy in private colleges, especially in the prestigious Ivy League institutions. While its intent is noble, the numerical data reveals that affirmative action may be counterproductive within the rigorous context of private higher education.
One of the unintended consequences of affirmative action is the harm it inflicts on the very individuals it seeks to assist. According to a comprehensive article by Gabriella Borter, 52% of the minority respondents to a survey stated that they were against affirmative action despite potentially benefiting from it. Cadence Owens, an African American woman remarked, “I am not less than you because you are white. I don’t need you to look at me and feel bad for me because of the color of my skin. And that’s effectively what you’re doing every time you take an application and… put her at the top of a line.” Several other women in minorities feel the same way about affirmative action–they see it as a ‘pity move’ that diminishes their capabilities.
This raises questions about the fairness of the admissions process. The data underscores the need for an approach that uplifts disadvantaged students without subjecting them to the shadow of doubt about their qualifications.
Paradoxically, affirmative action, meant to mitigate past racism, tends to perpetuate racial distinctions. Affirmative action can inadvertently contribute to further segregation, as it categorizes individuals based on their race.
The data prompts a critical examination of whether affirmative action achieves its intended goal or exacerbates existing divisions. Instead of fostering inclusivity, it underscores the need for a system that truly considers individuals based on their achievements rather than their racial background.
Furthermore, private institutions operate independently, and governmental interference may be inappropriate. The data underscores the importance of seeking alternative, more effective strategies to tackle workplace inequality without compromising the autonomy of private educational institutions.
Instead of relying on affirmative action, it is essential for society to actively reduce the stigma associated with attending Ivy League colleges. Business Insider reports that individuals with Ivy League degrees have tripled their chances of securing employment.
This striking statistic underscores the prevalent focus on college reputation within the hiring process. Simultaneously, it highlights the necessity for a shift in societal perspectives. As we progress, it becomes crucial for both employers and society at large to reassess the significance attributed to the prestige of one's bachelor's degree. The data indicates that a reevaluation of these priorities can pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive system, where individuals are recognized for their distinct skills, achievements, and potential, irrespective of the institutional brand on their resume.
This substantial percentage emphasizes the importance of evaluating individuals holistically, moving beyond the mere prestige of the institution they attended. Shifting the focus to an individual's overall achievements and potential, as indicated by the data, can foster a fairer and more inclusive system. Employers recognizing the value in a broader assessment signifies a shift toward a merit-based evaluation that considers the diverse strengths and talents individuals bring to the table.
The numerical data sheds light on the unintended consequences of affirmative action in private colleges that directly hurt racially diverse educational communities. While its intentions are commendable, the evidence suggests that a careful reevaluation is necessary. Integrating actual data into the discourse allows for a nuanced understanding of the potential pitfalls, supporting the call for a shift toward a holistic evaluation of individuals and a move toward a more equitable and merit-based society.