Backlight
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Backlight

Tegenlicht in Dutch or Backlight in English is a series of television documentaries by the VPRO, a Dutch public broadcasting organisation. Backlight "aims to grasp the quintessence of prominent trends and developments" in the practice of critical journalism, and tries to improve understanding of the intricate inner workings of our modern society.

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10. Get rid of the diploma arrogance

0.0Dec 8, 2025 · 19 min

Not class but merit will determine everyone's position in life. Away with the aristocracy, live the meritocracy, where everyone would have equal opportunities at the start, and those who deserve it all would end up as winners. But according to scientist and political philosopher Michael Sandel, meritocracy is a plausible cause of rising fascism. Because implicitly it means: if you have a hard time and do not obtain a diploma, then that must be your own fault. For many people, this led to resentment and anger.