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So fix the implementation. Rather than say "well there's not a lot of brown people contributing to this JS package so we need to get some more" why not fix the way the mentioned biases (which I agree 100% exist) are affecting how merit is decided?

The idea that the best way to fix biases in favor of wealthy white men is to add new biases against wealthy white men is crazy.




> why not fix the way the mentioned biases

What if the biases are deep-rooted and subtle and difficult to address without destroying productivity with endless ceremony? What if the biases exist beyond that single organization's control, but still affect them? If the waves are pushing you in one direction, pointing your bow slightly in the opposite direction might really be the right thing to do.

> The idea that the best way...

Few think it's the best way. The problem is, eliminating systemic bias will take a long time. During that time, new victims of that bias will continue to be created. If the introduction of a contrary bias helps more people than it harms, is that really so crazy?


The people who generally push for that "meritocracy" are the ones who benefit from it not being fixed in the first place.


Does the converse not slip just as easily off the tongue?

> The people who generally push against that "meritocracy" are the ones who benefit from it not being implemented in the first place.




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