Projects / Programmes
Meritocracy and the knowledge society – between simulation and reality
| Code |
Science |
Field |
Subfield |
| 5.03.00 |
Social sciences |
Sociology |
|
| Code |
Science |
Field |
| S210 |
Social sciences |
Sociology |
| Code |
Science |
Field |
| 5.04 |
Social Sciences |
Sociology |
meritocratic society, clientelism, egalitarianism, innovation, knowledge, modernization theory
Researchers (12)
Organisations (2)
Abstract
The sociological theory of modernization (Parsons) notes that the main characteristic of modern societies is, that the status of an individual is determined according to his individual achievements, meaning his status depends on engagement in acquiring the competences necessary for the functioning of social subsystems and for economic development. On one hand, we are dealing with the principle of meritocracy, and on the other hand with functional differentiation, which presupposes the existence of separate and specialized but functionally connected social subsystems. Modern societies should especially take into account the meritocratic principles in selecting the most competent and most talented people for leading positions in society, but there are doubts that meritocracy can lead to a new segregation and the reproduction of inequality and elitism.
The project thus deals with the significance, scope and limitations of meritocratic principles in the allocation of human resources in the (emerging) knowledge society, taking into account the multiplicity and inertia of contemporary socio-economic forms and the coexistence of various regulatory mechanisms. These mechanisms can work either successfully or inhibitively. However, no society is purely meritocratic, or is it a pure knowledge society.
The project refers to the Slovenian society - in empirical terms, it is oriented towards health, R & D and high-tech enterprises - but in a comparative, global framework (especially within the EU). We are addressing several questions, such as: whether meritocracy is related only to a consideration of formal education and formal competences, or does it primarily emphasize professional autonomy and scientific ethics? Is meritocratic allocation of resources focused solely on specialized knowledge, or does it include a tendency towards social dialogue and reflexivity) To what extent are bureaucratic, political-ideological and business interests (short-term and customer-oriented) generating a'' simulated meritocracy ''.
Significance for science
In particular, findings related to different types of societies and the role of meritocracy in Slovenia and Eastern Europe or new EU members will be relevant. We believe that multiple new publications will be created and we are planning to publish a volume at one of the reputable international publishing houses. We may assume, that the research will be interesting for all who study value (meritocratic) orientation in different parts of Europe. In our opinion, the findings will have influence on revitalisation of sociology and its greater societal and media visibility.
Significance for the country
In particular, findings related to different types of societies and the role of meritocracy in Slovenia and Eastern Europe or new EU members will be relevant. We believe that multiple new publications will be created and we are planning to publish a volume at one of the reputable international publishing houses. We may assume, that the research will be interesting for all who study value (meritocratic) orientation in different parts of Europe. In our opinion, the findings will have influence on revitalisation of sociology and its greater societal and media visibility.
Most important scientific results
Interim report
Most important socioeconomically and culturally relevant results
