Parlour Series: Meritocracy

Parlour series events are hosted in members' homes, so they work a little differently from our public events. The group size will be smaller, so we give preference to people who have recently attended another event. If you're interested in joining, please add yourself to the waitlist! The address will be posted as a private comment below, visible only to attendees. It is near the location pin that is visible publicly. Also, the hosts have a few fluffy felines!

Let’s consider:

• What do we mean when we say someone deserves their success? • Is merit something a person has, or something a society decides to reward? • If talent and work ethic are themselves products of genes and upbringing, can anyone be said to have earned their advantages? • Would a perfectly fair meritocracy be a just society, or would it produce its own kind of injustice? • What does the ideal of meritocracy ask us to believe about people who don't succeed? • Is there a difference between rewarding what people contribute and rewarding what the market happens to pay for? • Do credentials measure ability, or mostly the resources someone had access to? • If not merit, what should determine who gets what? • How much of where you have ended up do you attribute to your own effort?

No homework required, but if you’d like to reflect ahead of time, you can listen to the following podcast episode:

• The Grey Area (Ezra Klein) — "When meritocracy wins, everybody loses" • [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/when-meritocracy-wins-everybody-loses/id1081584611?i=1000450823662](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/when-meritocracy-wins-everybody-loses/id1081584611?i=1000450823662) • Daniel Markovits argues that meritocracy traps both sides — the excluded and the elite who exhaust themselves defending their position — and asks whether the system serves anyone well.

Shy Philosopher Night Procedure and Code of Ethics: 1. Discussion Style We aim for a cooperative flow, like passing a ball among teammates rather than engaging in back-and-forth debates. Please share the “ball” so everyone has a voice. 2. Brief Points (2-3 Minutes) Keep points concise so we can hear a variety of perspectives. Occasional exceptions may come up naturally, but our goal is inclusivity. 3. No Crosstalk Respect the speaker’s time without interjecting or questioning mid-speech. If you’d like to add something, simply raise your hand and the facilitator will guide the flow. 4. Avoid Ad Hominem Remarks Focus critiques on ideas, actions, or beliefs—not people. For example, say “This idea could have certain impacts” rather than “You’re wrong.” This ensures a respectful environment. 5. Respectful Engagement As we are guests in someone’s home, let’s maintain a high level of respect for the space and one another. Mindfulness, patience, and courtesy are essential to making this gathering comfortable and enjoyable for all. 6. Cancellation Courtesy If your plans change and you’re unable to attend, please let us know at least a day in advance by canceling your RSVP. Since space is limited, early notice helps ensure that someone else interested can join in your place. We really appreciate your understanding and help in making this a smooth, inclusive experience for everyone.

Looking forward to seeing you there!