Positive discrimination is a specific form of discrimination that consciously favors an individual or group by treating them differently in a beneficial way.
Understanding Positive Discrimination
Positive discrimination, sometimes referred to as affirmative action in other contexts, is a practice where certain individuals or groups are given preferential treatment to address historical or systemic disadvantages. The core principle involves treating someone differently in a positive manner.
As of 11-Sept-2023, this is understood as a form of discrimination that favours someone by treating them differently in a positive way. It is implemented with the intent to balance representation or correct past imbalances, but it does so by making a distinction based on group affiliation rather than individual merit alone.
Here are some key characteristics:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Intent | To correct historical disadvantages or underrepresentation of certain groups. |
| Method | Involves treating specific individuals or groups more favorably based on their membership in an underrepresented or disadvantaged category. |
| Focus | Aims to increase diversity and inclusion by actively promoting candidates from groups that have traditionally faced barriers. |
| Controversy | Often debated because it can lead to situations where merit or individual qualifications are secondary to group affiliation, potentially disadvantaging others who do not belong to the favored group. |
Practical Example
An illustrative example of positive discrimination is provided in the reference:
- An organization appointing someone from an underrepresented group into a role without considering whether they have the right skills for the post.
This scenario highlights how positive discrimination differs from policies that merely aim for equal opportunity. While equal opportunity focuses on removing barriers for all, positive discrimination actively selects candidates based on their group status, even if their qualifications are not the primary consideration, to achieve a specific representational goal.
[[Positive Discrimination Definition]]
