Since there's no racism now, why do we still have Affirmative Action?

Question

Isn't it unfair to the people who deserve a position to give preference to someone less qualified just because of that person's race?

Is any of the candidates promising to end Affirmative Action?

Answer 1

There is no racism now? what planet do you live on?

Answer 2

It is rather naive to believe there is no racism anymore.

But it a greater mistake to believe affirmative action really levels the playing field. It lowers standards for achievement. Granted once in a university or employment, the person still must perform to a minimal standard, but other more qualified people may have done more with the opportunity. How does passing on more qualified candidates (meaning potential students or employees) level the playing field? Isn't it condescending to suggest that minorities can't succeed without government intervention?

And as far as suggesting an end to for affirmative, political candidates wouldn't touch that one. I've heard people say social security is the third rail. Ending affirmative action is like licking the third rail, standing in puddle of water, while holding a lightening rod in a thunderstorm. The PC crowd wins this one.

Answer 3

While racism may not be as prevelant as, say, 40 years ago, it does still exist today. The only problem I have with Affirmative Action is when the only way any one is aware of race is because you must check it on a form. College applications are a good example of this. If there is nowhere to check race, then wouldn't the decisions be made solely on merit?

Answer 4

I do not support affirmative action, but racism does exist against every race and ethnicity. Human beings are fallible creatures with their hatreds and bigotries.

Employers should be allowed to discriminate in the hiring process. They should be allowed to discriminate on the basis of education, experience, race, sex, religion, sexuality, height, weight, hair color or whatever other standard they deem important. I think if they irrationally discriminate against certain people because of superficial qualities that have nothing to do with job performance, then those employers will almost certainly doom themselves to failure for such shoddy business practices and ethics. But should they have the right to make stupid decisions regarding the businesses that they own? Of course. They have as much right to discriminate in employment as you or I have a right to discriminate regarding the people we let into our homes or the people we marry.

It's especially irritating that our government feels the need to correct a historical wrong by punishing everyone in the present. Government-mandated punishments or preferences are unacceptable.

Answer 5

Affirmative Action does not work like that. All it means is that, if there are two equally qualified candidates, and one is a minority, be it race, or sex (as it applies to women as well), the minority gets the job.

Answer 6

I think it's an indication of racism when a form asks.

Affirmative Action had it's place at one time and needs to phase out.

Answer 7

If you think racism is dead you have another thing coming. Though the US is not complicit in one of the greatest acts of injustice (that of segregation) any longer, racism still does exist.

Yet I don't believe affirmative action is fair. Yet unfortunately sometimes it's necesary. People just don't seem to be able to treat each other fairly, no matter what colour or sex they are - and as long as such stupidity is prevalent in society it is a necesary evil.

Answer 8

Affirmative action is itself, a form of racism.

Candidates for a job position should be judged SOLELY upon their ability. No matter what color, race, or culture.

Answer 9

Not unless they want the NAACP to come down on them like a ton of bricks.

Answer 10

what world do you live in? racism is still prevalent. you just arn't in a postion to see it every day becuase its not outright like it used to be.