Explores whether 1987 entrance quotas used by a highly selective medical school (University of Montreal) were meritocratic or free from discrimination and arbitrary decisions. A sequential probit model shows that the performance variables as measured by the admissions committee only partially explain the committee's decisions. Many…

"Affirmative action" is the term typically used to refer to two contrasting values: the value of equal opportunity and the value of equal results. The Justice Department under the Reagan Administration, however, draws a clear distinction between the two, and is committed to the "original" meaning of affirmative action. That is,…

Examines reasons given for affirmative action quotas for minorities and asserts that such justifications as reparation and mitigation of poverty do not apply to women as a group. Thus argues that women should be treated fairly as individuals but that quotas make no sense. (GC)

Contrasts two views of affirmative action: (1) centralizing control over affirmative action with quotas and (2) making employment decisions that are consistent with sound business principles but which counteract prejudice, expand opportunities for underrepresented groups, and recognize labor market distortions that are unjustified by business…

The participants in this discussion in addition to Ralph Winter, the moderator, include Owen Fiss and Richard Posner, professors of law; Vera Glaser and William Raspberry, newspaper columnists; and Paul Seabury, professor of political science. These specialists address various legal, ethical and practical issues related to the elimination of…

Affirmative action and reverse discrimination are discussed. Facts that were omitted from the court record on the Bakke case are examined. The need for encouraging minority students and women to continue to press for school admission and for lawyers to continue to press affirmative action suits is stressed. (MC)

Describes the ways in which race and gender shaped the career transitions of women (N=238) whose careers were affected by opportunities generated by the Civil Rights Movement between 1973 and 1983. Results indicated that, although professional entry was enhanced, these women's subsequent careers were influenced negatively by both race and gender,…

Notes that Borgatta is not overly concerned about the discrimination that forms the background to current efforts at cultural recompense for historic exclusion and neglect of disadvantaged groups. (Author/AM)

Provides an overview of controversies over the legality of employment quotas. Asserts that the realities of human relationships (which form a metaphorical "web") cannot always be recognized and considered by the courts (which operate as a metaphorical "ladder"). (KH)

The case for programs of preferential treatment can plausibly rest both on the view that such programs are not unfair to white males and on the view that it is unfair to continue the present set of unjust--often racist and sexist--institutions that comprise the social reality. Such programs may be effective means by which to achieve equality and…

An overview of the judicial developments under Title VII during the first decade is presented from a perspective of private enforcement. Considered are employment discrimination, establishing the unlawful employment practice, formulating effective relief, and the Equal Employment Opportunity Act. Available from: 3642 Lindell Boulevard, St. Louis,…

This article explored the issues surrounding the universities' commitments under Executive Orders 11246 and 11375 and the current controversy which revolves around the question of goals vs. quotas. Available statistics show that the position of women and minorities in academia has not improved significantly. (Author)

In this address, the Assistant Attorney General of the Civil Rights Division, Department of Justice, reviews the Division's civil rights enforcement efforts, and discusses the Reagan Administration's position on racial quotas. To dispel the notion that the Administration is not committed to equal rights, the Assistant Attorney General describes…

In the coming era of shrinking opportunity in the professions, discrimination must be redefined so that there is consensus about fairness, and affirmative action within the professions should be deemphasized as the professions cease expanding. The burden of coming job shortages must be shared without favoring any one group. (SLD)

A newsletter on issues pertaining to women's rights on campuses and in employment is presented. Developments and issues include the following: initiation of intercollegiate athletic championships for women in nine sports; a charge of unequal pay for women coaches; university cases of alleged sex discrimination in athletic programs; reference to…