Sure, “affirmative action” is not a perfect solution, but we are yet to see equal opportunity for persons of minority decent with the credentials and potential to produce greatness. It is the very fact that study after study shows race/gender bias against minorities in hiring and firing, today. The last thing we need is to let these insipid inhuman ways slip back into our public institutions as it has always reigned in the private sector. It is, quite rare that a white male candidate of high merit loses an admission to an under-qualified minority based on a need to fill a quota. These suburban legends have led to an uproar of snidely, unwarranted indignation by the privileged class – no doubt highly represented in the above comments. Roger, you are part of this privileged class who has been given opportunity. If you really are concerned about inequality, I suggest that it would be more helpful to spend your time and energy on solving the problems that have led to “affirmative action”, not parsing the words and complaining about the results of an initiative designed to bring people out of less fortunate circumstances.