Suppose a society achieved truly equal opportunity, so that everyone could rise as far as their effort and talent would take them. Would this be a just society? Would those on top deserve their success? Should social roles, honors, and rewards be allocated according to merit? If so, how should merit be defined? To what extent is American society a meritocracy? Is meritocracy a remedy for inequality or a justification of it? Do universities promote opportunity or reproduce privilege? The course explores these and other questions related to equality, mobility, and the American dream.
Offered: Harvard University, Fall 2023
Position: Head Teaching Fellow for Prof. Michael Sandel