A governance structure must
guard against some pitfalls if it hopes to successfully implement its goals.
Human nature is complex, and both simplistic and overly complex solutions can
be exploited and subverted. However, with some safeguards it is possible to
achieve and sustain progress. Any architect of meritocracy should keep the
following in mind to ensure that meritocracy is sustainable:
1.
Transparency is paramount for merit to flourish
For
most public related issues, the information should be made available online and
the processes need to be made transparent. Without transparency conspiracy
theories take hold more easily, and people can come to believe that the
meritocracy is not genuine. This can be onerous and difficult without use
of technology.
2.
Equality of opportunity will sustain meritocracy
The
system should be perceived as fair by people. Without equality of opportunity,
meritocracy will degenerate into aristocracy, which will defeat the whole
purpose of having a meritocracy.
3. Too
much inequality will destroy the social fabric
Inequality
is inevitable. However, if 90% of the population is starving and underfed, then
there is something seriously wrong with the governance structure. Meritocracy
and a strong nation need wider participation of the population in the economy,
which can be jeopardised by poverty. They can also become easy targets for
communists and theological preachers, both of which can be a serious danger to
the integrity of a country.
4. Too
much power in too few hands will destroy the country
Parallel
institutions, sometimes even duplicate institutions can be critical to prevent
abuse of power. Checks and balances, backed by a strong constitution can do wonders
for a nation (even if it can be a bit chaotic).
5.
Right to accuse needs to be protected, but right to slander needs to be
checked
It is
important for citizens to be able to accuse and argue to forward their point of
view. This would strengthen meritocracy and help weed out unwanted elements.
However, slander and malicious propaganda can be used to damage reputation,
cause needless fear and disgust in population, and weaken the social fabric.
The law has to find a balance between encouraging criticism and preventing calumny.
6.
Rights should not come without responsibilities
In a meritocratic state, all rights (including human rights and voting rights) would
need to come with a responsibility.
7.
Avoid direct confrontation with religion, but side-line and weaken it
People
should be free to follow their religious belief, but nation needs to take the
front-seat. This would mean peaceful co-existence, complete stop on missionary
activities, and a uniform civil code applicable to all.
8.
Nationalism with spirituality will hold meritocracy together
Every
ideology needs a glue to hold it together. For meritocracy, nationalism can be
an excellent binder. However, to prevent wars and rise of any kind of
supremacists, it would need to incorporate certain degree of spirituality as
well. I am open to idea, but in experience meditation and breathing techniques
are a good, neutral starting point.
9. Do
not expect status quo to roll-over and die
If only
it was that simple. Do not underestimate the tenacity of vested interests and
the dangers of a revolution. Without political power and a police/army firmly
under civilian control, the changes will not be permanent. Managing media and a
comprehensive communication strategy will be as critical as doing actual work.
10.
Results Results Results
Theory
and intention is all well, but if there are no concrete, actual results, the
whole thing is meaningless and is probably being done wrong.
This is
by no means an exhaustive list, but my top 10 nuggets of wisdom to the one who
wants to walk the path. May the force be with you ;)
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