What are the arguments for and against affirmative action? Flashcards
What is affirmative action?
Affirmative action refers to policies and practices aimed at increasing opportunities for historically marginalized groups, particularly in education and employment.
True or False: Affirmative action guarantees admission to college for minority students.
False
What is one argument in favor of affirmative action?
It helps to address historical injustices and discrimination faced by minority groups.
Fill in the blank: Affirmative action is often implemented in ______ and ______.
education; employment
What is a common criticism of affirmative action?
It may lead to reverse discrimination against majority groups.
Multiple choice: Which of the following is a goal of affirmative action? A) Equal opportunity B) Equal outcomes C) Both A and B
A) Equal opportunity
True or False: Affirmative action is a permanent solution to inequality.
False
What landmark case upheld the use of affirmative action in college admissions?
Grutter v. Bollinger (2003)
Fill in the blank: Critics argue that affirmative action undermines ______ and promotes ______.
meritocracy; entitlement
What is ‘reverse discrimination’?
Reverse discrimination refers to the practice of favoring individuals from historically marginalized groups over those from majority groups, potentially resulting in unfair treatment.
Multiple choice: Which of the following is NOT a form of affirmative action? A) Quotas B) Outreach programs C) Standardized testing
C) Standardized testing
What is one potential benefit of affirmative action in the workplace?
It can lead to a more diverse and inclusive workforce.
True or False: Affirmative action policies are the same in all states.
False
What percentage of undergraduate admissions in the U.S. is affected by affirmative action policies?
This varies by institution and state, but estimates suggest around 10-20%.
Fill in the blank: Affirmative action policies aim to level the ______ for all applicants.
playing field
What does the term ‘diversity’ refer to in the context of affirmative action?
Diversity refers to the inclusion of individuals from various backgrounds, including race, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status.
Multiple choice: Which of the following is a potential negative impact of affirmative action? A) Increased diversity B) Decreased morale among non-minority applicants C) Enhanced social justice
B) Decreased morale among non-minority applicants
What is the role of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) concerning affirmative action?
The EEOC enforces federal laws that make it illegal to discriminate against a job applicant or an employee.
True or False: Affirmative action only applies to racial minorities.
False
What is ‘set-aside’ in the context of affirmative action?
Set-aside refers to a policy that reserves a certain percentage of contracts or positions for minority-owned businesses or individuals.
Fill in the blank: The debate over affirmative action often centers on issues of ______ and ______.
equity; equality
What is ‘colorblind’ policy in relation to affirmative action?
Colorblind policy refers to approaches that ignore race and ethnicity in decision-making processes.
True or False: All U.S. colleges and universities are required to have affirmative action policies.
False
What is a common argument against affirmative action related to qualifications?
Critics argue that it can lead to the selection of less qualified candidates over more qualified ones.
