As previously stated, there is controversy surrounding both the fairness and the effectiveness of affirmative action, and the latter can be used to support one's position on the former. So exactly what does each opposing side believe?
The issue is this: Some believe that affirmative action is indeed a good program with a positive goal that is important enough to fight for, and more importantly that minorities should be given extra help in getting into college and obtaining job opportunities. Others feel that this is unfair, and that people should be chosen for their jobs based on personal skill rather than qualities such as race and gender. The opponents of affirmative action say that if someone wants to succeed, he or she must work hard for it. They want a level playing field for everyone. The proponents respond to this that the playing field has never been level, and that giving minorities an advantage actually re-levels it. They feel that white males have always had the upper hand in education and so the minorities have not had an opportunity to succeed. The rebuttal of the anti-AA crowd would be that perhaps more white males have succeeded than men or women of other races because there is a higher percentage of white males who are more intelligent or more hard working than average. The pro-AA group would call them racist. And the debate goes on.
2 comments:
hi blog buddy!
Okay, so to begin..I really like your topic. Especially with college applications looming in our near future I think it is important to think about how "fair" the playing field truly is. I'll admit that I don't know enough details about affirmative action to form an educated opinion, although by april 3 hopefully that won't be the case!
Quick side note: I liked the integration of "de jure" and "de facto" from history into your overview. I also really liked how you presented both sides without just arguing your position from the start. You seem to know a lot about the topic already which will undoubtably help you as we progress in this process.
I can't wait to read the rest of your blogs and learn more about affirmative action!
Excellent post involving the pros and cons of affirmative action. I too believe that the playing field should be equal for all, and that the only deciding factors in one's approval or denial should be one's hard work and dedication. I can't wait to hear more supporting details on the issue and become well versed in the subject.
Keep up the good work!
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