Affirmative Action is Equalization of Opportunity: Pros and Cons

The way same ideas are presented and the context of these ideas change the whether people see them as positive or negative in society. I think this book is supposed to serve as an example for Rand’s philosophy. It is obvious that she admires Dagny and Hank’s worth ethic and style of thinking, but I am trying to stay neutral and see truth in ideas she supports and those she shows in a negative context.

            One thing I recently thought about is the wording of the Equalization of Opportunity Bill and Affirmative Action. In government class we learn that Affirmative Action is supposed to support the equalization of opportunity, not the equalization of results. Its controversial and some see it as reverse racism. Others think it is necessary because a lot of minorities don’t have the same education opportunities for a variety of reasons. After reading the book I would say that most would agree with Rand’s perception of the Equalization of Opportunity Bill. Yet, in practice, Americans learn that equalization of opportunity is legal and not the equalization of results. It seems unfair that a kid with higher test scores who is white, may be less valued then a kid with lower test scores who is black. However,  others may think it’s crucial to a good education to be around different types of people and cultures. When Hank’s mother asks Hank to give his brother a job because of his spiritual needs, I think the reader is supposed to think that request is absurd, unrealistic, and almost humorous. Hank’s brother should get a job purely based of his work ability and nothing else.  Is the request for students “spiritual needs” to be observed so they can be around different cultures at school just as absurd? It makes me wonder if Affirmative Action should been seen as ridiculous as Rand makes the Equalization of Opportunity Bill seem even though I've always appreciated  the effects of Affirmative Action.