Winners or losers? Ranking or co‐operation?

Abstract

Raises the question why society relies on ranking and grading from the first day of school, through the educational system, into the working environment. Goes on to discuss the effects of extrinsic forces on intrinsic attributes and describes and assesses the concerns/views of theorists such as Deming, Latzko and Bramham. Ranking affects us all throughout the whole western world. Indeed it is pervasive throughout the world. Ranking is a fundamental cornerstone of the present education system and is being further developed within organizations by means such as performance appraisal, target setting, merit system, etc. Suggests that ranking should be replaced by co‐operation and that recognition of the need to change is required. This may require government legislation. It also has to be encouraged by those who develop education and training policies.