The Illusion of Meritocracy

Deresiewicz critiques the contemporary meritocracy, arguing that it perpetuates inequality and self-interest rather than genuine leadership and societal benefit. He highlights that the meritocratic system is designed to serve the elite, who justify their privileged positions by claiming superior virtue and intelligence. 'The meritocracy purports, like every ruling class, to act for the good of all. Its ethos is in fact, by definition, one of self-advancement.' This system has led to a leadership class that is disconnected from the realities of most people's lives and is more focused on self-enrichment than public service.