2007-01-27T17:45:00.000-08:00

Meritocracy

Meritocracy is a system of government based on one's ability and talent.

I feel that the policy is a well-planned one because it affects Singapore's future directly or indirectly. The rewards based on merit serve as a motivation for the students to work hard and improve. It does not mean that without the awards, they won't work hard, but with the awards, it encourages the students to upgrade and improve themselves continuously.This policy of meritocracy also makes sure that the future leaders of Singapore will be selected based on real potential and not on basis of wealth or family connections. What will happen to Singapore if there were to be corruption in the government? How will the leaders be able to handle situations which cropped up when they do not have the capability in the first place. Isn't it the same as asking a 3 year old child to govern Singapore? This inefficiency will eventually lead to the downfall of Singapore.

Singapore still uphold the policy of meritocracy. This can be seen in our daily lives.In Singapore, rewards are given to students who have done well academically or non-academically. For example, Good Progress awards are given to students who have shown improvement in their studies, Scholarships are given to students who have been constantly doing well in their academic and lastly, Eagles awards are given to those who have shown capability in leading in their CCAs. Even in primary school, the students are enrolled into different secondary schools based on their PSLE aggregates. Those who scored very well will be enrolled into prestigious school. Then, from secondary school, they will again be enrolled into different polytechnics or junior colleges based on their o' level results. This shows that merit and capabilities are essential in deciding your future and your effort now will be reflected in your career when you step into the society into the workforce.

However, there is also a disadvantage of this system. Elitism seems to have arise in Singapore now. Elites are selected group of people with outstanding personal abilities, wealth and experience. Elitism means that their ( the elites) views on a matter are taken as more significant and constructive while the views of the non-elite public are negligible or taken less seriously. For example, elitism in education means that those students who are more inclined then the others are given more attention and that the other students are regarded as less worthy of attention.

Many Singaporeans believe that meritocracy will cause Singapore to become a elitist society gradually. I feel that it is because people are compartmentalized into different groups based on their capabilities. In the current practical society, capabilities and talent are very important to determine your success in your career. A degree, may only be a piece of paper, but the presence of it makes a very vast difference. For example, scenario: a graduate and a person who has a diploma went for an job interview. Who will get the job eventually? The graduate, of course. Even now, in school enrolment, those who scored better grades then the rest will have a secured place in the school while the rest will be put on waiting list. Perhaps the policy of meritocracy has been hammered into everyone's mind and everybody is so conscious about merit that it backfired. Sometimes, the elites may feel that they are superior than the non-elite public as they will feel that they are more 'useful' than the rest. The non-elite public will be put at lower priority. Another example of elitism is the Wee Shu Min elitism scandal. I have to agree that she is an elite, but i am not quite in favour of the way she rebutted back the Singaporean man. She used nasty words and sarcasm to rebut the heartlander. Yes, he might not be as educated as her but there is still a borderline which should not be cross. Her insensitivity might have hurt the person's pride. Even a beggar has his pride. No matter how educated a person is, he/she still deserve respect. It is basic courtesy. This shows that there has been an increasing signs of elitism creeping into the society.

I believe that if the problem of elitism is not solve, a vicious cycle will appear as it will lead to other long term problems in society, such as education. Lastly, i feel that everyone should be given equal opportunity to be heard regardless of capabilities and nobody should be look down on as everyone has their own abilities and talents.

HEY YA!