Ive been brooding about the idea of meritocracy in Singapore for awhile. Although it works well, there is a deep flaw. A system of meritocracy means that people are rewarded based on what they do, not who they are - based on their merit. So far so good. But it leads people to believe that their success is ONLY due to their own merit, their own talent, intellect, and hard work. They dont see how their circumstances and environment have benefitted them - to allow their merit. I think Ive led a life long and diverse enough to realise this. For instance, no matter how talented or hardworking one is, there is a huge difference between being from a broken family, homeless and poor; and to be comfortable, have nurturing people and opportunities all around you. I have been on both sides.. and I must say circumstances really, really matter. I could say Ive done it all on my own merit - but I know in fact I have just been incredibly fortunate. So why does it matter? I think we need to recognise that although we may be rewarded for merit, merit is not inherent but circumstantial. We will then look at how the circumstances have contributed to our merit - and success. And we will realise that circumstances have benefited some more than others - sometimes in a very disproportionate way. We will then look at how, in small ways, we can contribute back to these circumstances - to society, or just to the people around us - and make it better. This is a fairer idea than mere meritocracy: an enlightened, reciprocal, and compassionate meritocracy.
Posted on: Sat, 07 Jun 2014 10:23:30 +0000