Under-representation or positive discrimination?

Abstract

"Positive Discrimination" is a term used to indicate measures that specifically favour a particular category of people, thereby directed at removing existing inequalities and consistent under-representation in society. Such compensatory measures imply the selection of a candidate on the grounds of race, gender, age or disability, rather than on merit alone.

There are many ways such a policy can be implemented. It may include setting a specific number or quota in favour of a group of people for specific jobs, posts or universities, and although they might usually be preferred if they are equally qualified, rigid quotas may go as far as preferring them, even if they are less qualified than other applicants. For example, in July 2004, the UK's House of Lords held that an employer should have given a post to a disabled applicant, even though she was not the 'best' candidate.