Debating Society: The Rise and Fall of Meritocracy?

EVENT INFORMATION

Democracy has often, if not as a fact at least as a goal, been associated with meritocracy. However, is there such a possibility as a perfect meritocracy?

Many studies show that the reproduction of social classes still prevail in education and work achievements in countries like the UK and France. Is true meritocracy even possible, and if so is it such a good idea? Almost sixty years ago, Michael Young published a soon – to – be famous essay, The Rise of the Meritocracy, a dystopia which underlined the possible perverse effects of meritocracy.

Today, at a time where the ‘elite’ is often criticised for being supposedly too far from the ‘people’, and where this estrangement is supposed to explain the victory of Brexit and Trump, it is worth asking if Young was true and if we are not living the nightmare of meritocracy?

About the Speaker

Laetitia Strauch-Bonart is a French writer and journalist. She is particularly interested in Conservatism in France and in the UK, and is working on a doctoral thesis on the British Conservative Party in the post-war era. She has already been published in French newspapers such as Le Figaro or Le Monde and is a regular panelist on Arte TV. In the UK she has appeared in Standpoint. Her first book, “Vous avez dit conservateur?” (“did you say Tory?’)  was published in 2016. She is also the translator of the British philosopher Roger Scruton.

About The Persuaders

Founded by Radiah Ford (née Binns) and Alban James, the Persuaders is the Home House Debating Salon. It offers members and their guests the opportunity to informally engage with thought leaders from the world of politics, activism, academia and the arts.

All discussions under the Chatham House Rule.

Cost: £5 member, £10 guest (all monies to our charity TACT, The Adolescent and Children’s Trust)

Time/Location: 7.30pm, Etruscan Room

Due to the popularity of our events, we are unable to offer refunds.