The End of Meritocracy? Intelligence in an AI Economy
Meritocracy, once grounded in individual intelligence and effort, is challenged by AI, which democratizes cognitive output. In an AI-driven economy, success shifts from personal merit to access and control of resources. This new “Synthetic Meritocracy” creates structural inequalities, making traditional credentials obsolete and reshaping social mobility. Intelligence becomes less visible, while judgment and ethical reasoning gain significance.