Why is it wrong for universities to not consider race in admissions?

Question

Whay is race on the application form? Wouldn't it be better if we eliminated race from the admissions process entirely? That would create a society without discrimination, yes?

Answer 1

In theory, you are right. In practice, I believe that you are wrong.

In theory, we should all get into good schools because of our acheivements. Unfortunately, there are still African Americans who do not get a great education in grade school and high school because of where they grew up. Many of these students would have flourished in another environment -- but have not had the chance. Many will do well in college if given the opportunity. Denying them admittance to a good school benefits no one, and perpetuates the sins of the past.

There were a number of black students in my MBA class at Duke. Many of them were given a chance to get a good education at decent undergraduate schools and proved that they belonged -- paving their way to get into Duke's program. My MBA experience was enhanced by their presence. The companies they went to after graduation benefitted by having well qualified black employees.

After getting my MBA at Duke, I went on for a PhD at Berkeley. UC-Berkeley became constrained by a state law which prohibited the use of race when considering applicants. Consequently, there were very few blacks attending the law school or the business school the next year. There were two reasons for this. One is that many students were on the cusp of those whoi would be admitted -- but without being able to consider race, were turned down in favor of white or Asian students who were only slightly more well qualified. The other (more common) reason was that race could no longer be used as a basis for providing financial aid to those who were qualified -- so qualified black students accepted positions at private schools that could give them money.

If having a diverse student body is important (and I would argue that for business schools and law schools it is), then Berkeley is worse off for not being able to provide an education for these black students.

Answer 2

Okay I respect Mr. Taranto's answe. It is the way it is but I think it is unfair. It's unfair to me. I'm Asian. I feel like I'm at great disadvantage. Ivy League schools usually comprise of 10% Asians (?). There are so many gifted, talented, and hardworking Asians, but all of them are competing for a spot. Most of these are way much more talented and sacrificed so much more than other students. So why is it fair for them not to be admitted because compared to others of their race, they are slightly inferior? But compared to other races, they are far superior? But then why does legacy matter? It's unfair, but it still occurs. It makes me angry but it happens. I don't believe in affirmative action. I sympathize with blacks and minorities, but it definitely hurts me. It's just the way it is I guess.

Answer 3

Man will not be judged by the color of his skin.