The Myth of Meritocracy: Unpacking Workplace Inequality

In this episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston explores the illusion of meritocracy in the workplace. Despite the comforting narrative that hard work leads to success, systemic biases and structural inequalities often shape career outcomes more than individual effort. The episode digs into psychological concepts like the just world hypothesis and fundamental attribution error, and cultural factors such as the American Dream and survivor bias. Leslie discusses how these beliefs perpetuate inequality and internalized oppression, offering insights into how organizations and individuals can foster a more equitable environment. Tune in to learn why meritocracy is a myth and how recognizing this can lead to positive change.

00:00 Introduction to Meritocracy
01:43 The Just World Hypothesis and Fundamental Attribution Error
03:14 The Illusion of Control and Cognitive Consistency
04:57 Cultural Programming and Survivor Bias
07:36 System Justification and the Matthew Effect
09:37 Internalized Depression and Imposter Syndrome
14:30 Algorithmic Bias and Workplace Gaslighting
21:36 Challenging the Meritocracy Myth
25:18 Conclusion and Call to Action

Research