Affirmative Action
Policies designed to increase representation of historically disadvantaged groups (particularly racial minorities) in education and employment, through preferential consideration in admissions and hiring.
Real World
In Students for Fair Admissions v Harvard (2023), the Supreme Court struck down race-conscious admissions at Harvard and UNC, ending decades of affirmative action in higher education and sparking fierce debate about equality versus diversity.
Exam Focus
Examiners reward engagement with both sides — note that critics argue affirmative action breaches the Equal Protection Clause while supporters cite structural inequality.
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