In The Tyranny of Merit, Michael J. Sandel critiques the American meritocratic system, arguing that it exacerbates social inequality and fosters a divide between the "winners" and "losers," particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using the 2019 college admissions scandal as a springboard, Sandel explores how meritocracy has led to a societal hierarchy that values credentials over individual worth, and calls for redefining dignity in all work to promote the common good.

Michael J. Sandel's The Tyranny of Merit is praised for its insightful critique of meritocracy and its impact on societal inequality. Critics laud its clarity and relevance, though some argue it oversimplifies complex issues and lacks practical solutions. Overall, it stimulates valuable discussion on the ethics of merit-based justice.

A reader who would enjoy The Tyranny of Merit by Michael J. Sandel is likely interested in contemporary political philosophy, social justice, and critiques of meritocracy. Comparable to readers of Thomas Piketty's Capital in the Twenty-First Century or Robert Putnam's Our Kids, they ponder societal fairness and ethics.

Informative / Contemplative / Challenging / Inspirational

- The Tyranny of Merit: What's Become of the Common Good? by Michael J. Sandel explores the ethical dimensions of meritocracy, questioning common perceptions of success and fairness in contemporary society.
- Michael J. Sandel is known for his engaging teaching style and has been a popular professor at Harvard University, where his course “Justice” has been one of the most highly attended and influential over the years.
- In The Tyranny of Merit, Sandel draws on philosophy, history, and current events to critique the idea that meritocracy alone should determine success, prompting readers to consider the role of luck and grace in personal and societal achievements.

Michael J. Sandel

Adult

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Nonfiction

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Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Tyranny of Merit and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Tyranny of Merit Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Tyranny of Merit Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Introduction

The Tyranny of Merit Prologue-Introduction Summary & Analysis

Chapters 1-2

The Tyranny of Merit Chapters 1-2 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 3-4

The Tyranny of Merit Chapters 3-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-6

The Tyranny of Merit Chapters 5-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 7-Conclusion

The Tyranny of Merit Chapter 7-Conclusion Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

The Tyranny of Merit Key Figures

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Themes

The Tyranny of Merit Themes

Index of Terms

The Tyranny of Merit Index of Terms

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Important Quotes

The Tyranny of Merit Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Tyranny of Merit Essay Topics

The Tyranny of Merit: What’s Become of the Common Good?

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

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Who Should Read The Tyranny of Merit?

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