Affirmative Action - Advantages and disadvantages table in A Level and IB Government & Politics

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Created by: Hannah
Created on: 27-05-13 09:25

Affirmative Action

Advantages

Lead to greater levels of diversity
Rights previous wrongs
Opens up areas of education and employment minorities would not have otherwise considered
A diverse student body creates a better learning environment and one where ethnic and racial tolerance are encouraged
It is the most meaningful and effective means designed thus far for delivering the promise of equal opportunity
It works - 1960-95, % of black people graduating from uni = 5-15%

Disadvantages

Advantage for one group leads inevitably to disadvantage for another group
Can lead to minorities being admitted to courses or given jobs which they are ill-equipped to cope
Can be condescending to minorities by implying they need help to succeed thereby demeaning their achievement
Perpetuates a society based on colour and race = encourages prejudice
No more than a quota system under another name
Focuses on groups rather than individuals

Evaluation

Has Affirmative Action succeeded? The answer will be yes if in 2028 the programmes are no longer needed as a fully-integrated society exists

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