Kim recently posted about her disdain for the competition inherent in schools. Citing examples like scaling (though I think grading on a curve is even more competition driven) and the competitive nature of the post-secondary education application process as fostering an environment of competition. From this competition, Kim argues, students derive their self worth.
So far Kim's points are congruent with what I know of public schooling and the post-secondary process. However, Kim implies, if not outright states, that this is a negative aspect of education. I hear it often said that America is a meritocracy, or at least, that it ought to be. The process for admissions into post-secondary institutes ought to be based on merit as well. However, there is an aspect of competition inherent in a merit-based system. Whoever shows the most merit receives the reward: (admission, job, etc.) So it would seem that while there is competition in merit, there may just be some merit in competition.
Q: If a merit-based system is truly laudable then is the competitive aspect inherent in it laudable as well?
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