The system's defenders often point to success in the military. That won't wash. The military has a unique command system that does not extend to the private sector. And the main lesson to be learned from the military is that it does not lower its standards. Instead, it has used compensatory programs of training and education to help members of disadvantaged groups meet the same standards as everyone else.
Intensive training is the right kind of affirmative action.
Education should be the focus of presidential leadership, as it was earlier in Clinton's term. It is the best ladder for individual economic and social improvement in the 21st century, and it is the surest way to reduce what bigotry remains. Education is a hole in one. Inc. All rights reserved.