What is affirmative action?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Affirmative_action
Affirmative action is a policy that seeks to address historical disadvantages faced by certain groups, particularly in the areas of education and employment. It aims to promote equal opportunities by giving preferential treatment, such as hiring or admission preferences, to individuals from underrepresented or marginalized groups.
To understand affirmative action in more detail, you can follow these steps:
1. Define the term: Start by understanding the basic definition, which is the policy's intention to address past discrimination and promote equal opportunity.
2. Research historical background: Explore the historical context and the societal factors that led to the development of affirmative action. Understanding the historical landscape will provide insight into the need for such policies.
3. Study legal framework: Look into the relevant laws and policies that support or regulate affirmative action, particularly in your country or region. Familiarize yourself with key court cases, legislation, and guidelines that shape its implementation.
4. Analyze different perspectives: Consider the diverse viewpoints surrounding affirmative action. Examine arguments in favor of the policy, such as the need to rectify past injustices, and arguments against it, such as concerns about reverse discrimination. Evaluating multiple perspectives will help you form a well-rounded understanding.
5. Explore implementation methods: Investigate how affirmative action is implemented in different contexts. This may include examining specific practices in education, employment, or government contracting. Understanding the mechanics of implementation will contribute to your comprehension.
6. Stay aware of ongoing debates: Finally, keep up with current debates and controversies surrounding affirmative action. This topic remains a subject of significant discussion and disagreement, so staying informed will ensure you have the latest information on different viewpoints and potential changes to the policy.
Remember that affirmative action varies across different countries and regions, so it is essential to consider the specific context when studying this topic.