The Big Test: The Secret History of the American Meritocracy

The Big Test: The Secret History of the American Meritocracy by Nicholas Lemann

Two-third of this book covers the rise of the ETS and the SAT under Henry Chauncey. The final third focuses on the battle over affirmative action in California and Molly Munger. The two are somewhat tied together to show a history of meritocracy, though it was quite jumbled. In the first case, the test seemed like the ideal progressive tool that could provide opportunity for all. Rather than the "old boys network", schools would be able to admit those based on academic ability. Later, affirmative action is a tool used to ensure people that previously were left out had opportunity. Both cases fell victim to unforeseen circumstances. The tests ended up being very coachable. Instead of being a pure test of aptitude, the test was something that was heavily influenced by social class and time spent preparing. Affirmative action in college admissions came out of this. Certain minority groups were admitted with lower SAT scores. Alas, the SAT scores still did a good job of predicting success and these lower-scored admits often took longer to graduate or were more likely to drop out. Others were left out of learning and education opportunities due to affirmative action. 

Can we really have a pure meritocracy? What is the best way to offer opportunities in society? Can the playing field really be leveled in a way that improves situations for all? There are a lot of questions. This book will not answer them. It will provide plenty of insights into the politics behind the changes that have come about.