Kirjahaku

The study of social dynamics using quantitative methodology is complex and calls for cutting-edge technical and methodological approaches in social science research. This book presents the existing statistical models and methods available for understanding social change over time. It provides step-by-step instructions for designing and conducting longitudinal research, with special focus on the longitudinal analysis of both quantitative outcomes (for the modeling of change in continuous variables) and qualitative outcomes (for the modeling of events occurring over time). Readers will learn how to study change in variables over time and how to formulate and estimate multivariate longitudinal models to predict such change, mainly using cross-sectional, cross-time and event history analyzes. This text also teaches how to design and implement a study using longitudinal data from the selection and collection of appropriate variables to the most effective ways to analyze and present data for publication in top social science journals.

Meritocracy—the idea that individuals should be rewarded based on their talent and hard work—is one of the most widely celebrated ideals in education, business, and government. It shapes how organizations recruit, evaluate, and promote, promising a fair system where the best rise to the top. But meritocracy has increasingly come under criticism for deepening inequality and reinforcing bias. How did a once-progressive ideal meant to level the playing field end up contributing to unfairness and privilege? What happens when organizations treat merit as their guiding principle without questioning how it’s defined or applied? Most importantly, how can today’s leaders recognize and fix what’s gone wrong?In The Meritocracy Paradox, Emilio J. Castilla offers timely new answers to these fundamental questions. He analyzes the structure and culture of meritocracy inside organizations, providing real-world examples—from hiring and merit-based bonuses in companies to admissions decisions at elite universities—to show how personal biases and social barriers can undermine the values and outcomes these systems are meant to uphold. Castilla provides practical, research-backed frameworks to help organizations achieve true fairness and opportunity for all. Drawing on successful data-based interventions, he presents concrete strategies for improving recruitment, selection, evaluation, promotion, and compensation processes—revealing how motivated leaders can identify and correct shortcomings with cost-effective, targeted solutions that deliver proven results.The Meritocracy Paradox is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand and improve the intersection of merit, fairness, and equal opportunity in organizations.