[kokokokoko]

I wonder if you can help me understand this better. Why does a specific private university need let in the smartest or most capable students? What does that have to be their goal or they are unjust? Why can't they have different reasons and goals when building their student body? I understand things like racism and other forms of bigotry. But what's wrong with adding some students that will bring in the perspective of the super wealthy? Not to mention the significant additional funds it will provide for everyone else?

It feels like having a purely merit based population of students would create a very stagnant and dull environment.

[anigbrowl]

Well, they don't - but then they'll eventually get the reputation of being a party school rather than the prestige that goes with outstanding academics.

It feels like having a purely merit based population of students would create a very stagnant and dull environment.

'This university sucks! Everyone here is a nerd.'

OK, you probably did not mean it that way but I can't resist having a little fun with this. If all you want to do is shake things up, why not just draft random working class people via lottery? For extra amusement, make them go even if they don't want to. True, we would not learn anything about the perspective of the super wealthy, but they already have billboards and TV stations to inform us of their opinions.