For decades, presidents beginning with Andrew Jackson routinely replaced large swaths of the government workforce, often requiring them to pay fees to political parties in exchange for their jobs.
Academic rigor, journalistic flair
Articles on Merit-based hiring
Displaying all articles
For decades, presidents routinely replaced large swaths of the government workforce, often requiring them to pay fees to political parties in exchange for their jobs.
The vast majority of managers said they wanted "the best person for the job". They had less idea of just who that might be, or how to ensure appointments on merit and equity targets co-exist.
Americans' widespread belief that they live in a meritocracy where anyone can get ahead actually makes inequality even worse, particularly in terms of gender.
