Meritocracy in America: Ideal or Illusion?

Meritocracy in America: Ideal or Illusion?

The United States has long been described as a land where anyone can succeed through hard work and talent. But some question whether we still live in a true meritocracy—and whether we ever did.

At this meeting, we’ll explore how Americans define “merit,” whether our systems reward it fairly, and what role equality of opportunity should play in shaping the American Dream.

We’ll ask questions such as:

• How do you define merit, and what role should character traits play in it?
• Do you believe America is a merit-based society today? Why or why not?
• What do you think most determines a person’s success—individual effort, background, or larger systems?
• Do you think prioritizing diversity ever conflicts with selecting the most qualified person?
• Should society focus more on equal opportunity or equal outcomes—and why?

This will be an opportunity to reflect on the role of merit in American life and how it aligns with the country’s founding promises.

Please do your best to arrive at the beginning of the meeting – once we are in breakout rooms and the conversations have started, the meeting doors close to new arrivals. The breakout rooms open (and the doors close) approximately 15 minutes after the hour.

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