is it odd that no one raises the question of 'merit' when a man is appointed to a board, ceo or judicial post, to the magistracy, or is preselected for parliament?

merit is a concept infused with ideology. it is based in stereotypical notions of 'what counts' and what is valuable. no wonder, then, that when a male is appointed there is no issue of merit, yet when a woman is - the issue becomes central.

merit is not the objective measure it is touted to be. as some have said, objectivity is the term given to male subjectivity. no wonder, then, that the question of the (non)meritous man never arises.

Acutally jocelynne, merit is raised quite regularly, but usually not in terms of gender. Ever worked in a department where there is a bit of a "old boys" culture happening, or where union seniority has a hold? Merit issues arise all the time.