Senior Project Advisor

Cameron Whitley

Document Type

Project

Publication Date

Fall 2022

Keywords

meritocracy, gender, race, power, American dream

Abstract

This study examined data from the 2021 General Social Survey (GSS) to determine what factors influence participants’ view of meritocracy within the United States. Based on existing literature that examines relative power and perception, this study sought to understand the connection between power and belief that America exists as a meritocracy, with the assumption that those belonging to groups deemed as wielding power in society should hold stronger beliefs in meritocracy. Results partially support this hypothesis. Using a multivariate linear regression analysis, those who are older or white assert stronger belief in meritocracy, while those with a greater social justice orientation show less belief in meritocracy.

Subjects - Topical (LCSH)

Merit (Ethics)--Public opinion; Power (Social sciences)--United States; Social values--United States; Statistical power analysis

Subjects - Names (LCNAF)

General Social Survey (U.S.)

Genre/Form

abstracts (summaries)

Type

Text

Rights

Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this document for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author’s written permission.

Language

English

Format

application/pdf

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Included in

Sociology Commons

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