Discrimination and Disparities with Thomas Sowell
Hoover Institution・2 minutes read
Dr. Thomas Sowell challenges the concept of disparate impact, arguing that intentions do not always translate into outcomes and emphasizing the importance of focusing on present and future actions rather than symbolic restitution for past injustices. Sowell showcases the impact of family background and specific prerequisites on success, highlighting how social vision often fails to align intentions with results, leading to unintended consequences and social retrogression.
Insights
- Disparate impact theory assumes all groups are similar in capabilities, contrary to the reality of differing prerequisites leading to significant outcome variations.
- Family background, exemplified by the National Merit Scholarship finalists data, plays a crucial role in success, with firstborn children often excelling academically due to parental attention, showcasing the impact of upbringing on achievements.
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Recent questions
What is disparate impact theory?
Disparate impact theory challenges discriminatory policies.
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