The Trouble With “Merit”: Why It Isn’t as Objective as We Think
Published on: 09/01/2026
Merit is often treated as neutral, but research shows it is shaped by culture, intuition, and systems—reproducing inequality in recruitment.

Merit is often treated as neutral, but research shows it is shaped by culture, intuition, and systems—reproducing inequality in recruitment.

Recruitment is a powerful system shaping equity outcomes. Research shows bias persists through structures, not intent—making system redesign essential.