Question 1

On what basis might one argue that affirmative action hurts those it is designed to help?

Accepted Answer

A)   It ensures minorities are hired on a basis other than their qualifications.
B)   People can always find ways to get around affirmative action policies.
C)   Affirmative action programs could give minorities too many positions.
D)   It is unjust to those who are qualified but not minorities. A

Question 2

Describe a case of affirmative action and the type of discrimination that it would be intended to overcome.

Accepted Answer

One example of affirmative action is the implementation of diversity quotas in hiring practices. This type of affirmative action is intended to overcome the discrimination of underrepresented minority groups in the workforce. By setting quotas for the hiring of individuals from these minority groups, companies aim to address the historical and systemic discrimination that has led to their underrepresentation in certain industries. This type of affirmative action is designed to create more equal opportunities for individuals who have been marginalized due to their race, ethnicity, gender, or other factors.

Question 3

One who supports affirmative action on the basis of compensation would argue on the basis of____________.

Accepted Answer

A)   fairness
B)   justice
C)   benefits
D)   consequences B

Question 4

Employers can be found guilty of discrimination____________.

Accepted Answer

A)   only if they intend to discriminate
B)   any time an employee feels discriminated against
C)   if the effects were just as though discrimination had occurred
D)   even if they have not transgressed a particular law

Question 5

It is not generally illegal to discriminate on the basis of____________.

Accepted Answer

A)   sex
B)   age
C)   ability
D)   nationality

Question 6

Sexual harassment can be a form of discrimination____________.

Accepted Answer

A)   when it involves prejudice
B)   only when it is a condition for employment
C)   any time sex is not a qualification
D)   when it involves a hostile work environment

Question 7

A utilitarian in opposition to discrimination would say that discrimination is wrong because____________.

Accepted Answer

A)   it makes productivity suffer
B)   it violates the right to privacy
C)   it violates human dignity
D)   it is unfair

Question 8

How do people draw the line between job specifications that require discrimination on the one hand, and unfair discrimination on the other?

Accepted Answer

The answer of How do people draw the line between...

Question 9

Why is sexual harassment often considered a form of discrimination?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Why is sexual harassment often considered a...

Question 10

Discrimination is widely considered unethical largely because it is____________.

Accepted Answer

A)   unjust
B)   illegal
C)   harmful
D)   merited

Question 11

A nonconsequentialist might argue against discrimination on the basis of____________.

Accepted Answer

A)   the disadvantage it gives to minorities
B)   the harm that it does to society
C)   its damage to the economy
D)   its being unjust

Question 12

Religious discrimination is unique in that it that can involve____________.

Accepted Answer

A)   prejudice
B)   specific practices
C)   things beyond an employer's control
D)   abilities

Question 13

Affirmative action plans are generally aimed towards____________.

Accepted Answer

A)   achieving certain quotas
B)   rectifying past injustices
C)   giving greater opportunities
D)   correcting prejudice

Exam 7: Discrimination and Affirmative Action