Universidad y bien común: Breve crítica a la tiranía del mérito de Sandell

Abstract

Social and individual rewards are determined, to some extent, by the way in which a particular society works. Under this context, universities play a key role when they select young people through merit-based mechanisms. A talented student is expected to become a conscientious and responsible professional. However, what happens when someone assumes that their success is only a product of their own talent? Michael J. Sandel addresses this question. The “tyranny of merit” may emerge. Despite his articulate critique, Sandel fails to discuss more deeply what would happen when a society rewards its individuals through antimeritocratic rules. This is discussed here by taking Mexico’s educational system as an example, with the aim of continuing a reasoned discussion.