Ability Quote by Barbara Bergmann
![“[On affirmative action:] Universities give a boost in admissions for other factors besides race, factors that bring no social benefit, such as athletic ability, celebrity of parents, and alumni connections. It is remarkable how little agitation there is against those practices.” quote by Barbara Bergmann](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/974/barbara-bergmann-64259_ability_on-affirmative-action-universities-give_2483440.jpg)
“[On affirmative action:] Universities give a boost in admissions for other factors besides race, factors that bring no social benefit, such as athletic ability, celebrity of parents, and alumni connections. It is remarkable how little agitation there is against those practices.”
About This Quote
Universities prioritize non‑academic advantages like athletics, fame, or connections, yet face little public outcry.
In simple terms: Admissions favor privileged traits without social benefit, yet go unchallenged.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and question hidden biases in admissions.
Themes
equity
privilege
higher education
admissions
social justice
Mood
critical
concerned
Type
analytical
observational
When to use this quote
- college applications
- policy reform
- public debate
Key Concepts
institutional bias
meritocracy
social capital
Questions to Reflect On
- How do these practices affect social mobility?
- What reforms could increase fairness?
A Different Perspective
Challenges arise when entrenched interests resist change.
![“[Economists' advice] is something like patent medicine - people know it is largely manufactured by quacks and that a good percentage of the time it won't work, but they continue to buy the brand whose flavor they like.” quote by Barbara Bergmann](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/5f2/barbara-bergmann-64259_advice_economists-advice-is-something-like-pate_3170455.jpg)
