Avoiding the Meritocracy Trap

The podcast features a discussion with Michael Sandel on the flaws of meritocracy, highlighting how it fails to address inequality and creates a divide between winners and losers. The conversation also touches on labor market changes, the role of education in politics, and the impact of technocratic thinking on political representation. Sandel argues that the focus on meritocracy and technocracy has led to a disconnect between political elites and working-class citizens, contributing to social grievances.

Who is the guest on the Battleground podcast discussing meritocracy?

• Amanda Lippmann

• Elon Musk

• Michael Sandel

• Joe Biden

What is one of the main criticisms of meritocracy discussed in the podcast?

• It eliminates social classes

• It promotes equality of opportunity

• It ensures fair competition

• It is corrosive of the common good

What shift in the labor market is highlighted in the podcast?

• Increased automation

• Essential workers demanding better conditions

• Higher unemployment rates

• More part-time jobs

What has been the Democratic Party's response to inequality over the past four decades?

• Increased focus on rural development

• Reduction of taxes for the wealthy

• Promotion of individual upward mobility through education

• Direct confrontation of income inequality

What is the implicit insult in promoting higher education as a solution to inequality?

• It ignores the role of technology

• It undervalues vocational training

• It blames individuals for their economic struggles

• It assumes everyone can afford college

What term did Obama frequently use to describe his policies?

• Innovative

• Smart

• Inclusive

• Sustainable

How does the podcast describe the impact of 'smart' policies on politics?

• They increase voter engagement

• They drain politics of ideological contest

• They simplify decision-making

• They encourage public debate

What percentage of Americans do not have a four-year college degree?

• Nearly 2/3

• Nearly 1/2

• Nearly 3/4

• Nearly 1/3

What is a consequence of the credentialism in representative government?

• Resentment among non-credentialed individuals

• More working-class representation

• Increased diversity

• Higher voter turnout

What was a significant source of Trump's appeal according to the podcast?

• His economic policies

• His appeal to grievances against elites

• His foreign policy stance

• His environmental initiatives