Notebooks

Notebooks are snapshots from our writers, reflecting on current affairs and underappreciated aspects of culture and history.

Sweden's social democrats dominated politics for half a century. But continuous power bred arrogance, ideology and eventual economic stagnation.

The crisis of meritocracy is a crisis of dignity. We need to find new ways to value what people are good at.

A failing school system has eroded meritocracy in America. But innovative educators are turning the tide.

Although merit is an age-old idea, the West's post-60s culture of narcissism reshaped it in novel ways, spurring the rise of smug meritocrats.

Male-dominated music is no meritocracy. But look beyond chart rankings and sales, and the work of true artists endures.

The transfer market rewards footballers on merit. If only the same could be said about managerial performance.

The French Revolution spawned a new age of opportunity for the many to make it to high office. Or did it?

Post-1871 Imperial Germany's embrace of meritocratic ideals was only skin deep.

Not all women in ancient Greece benefited from the advent of democracy – but exceptions like Aspasia are a source of inspiration today.