Our book defines affirmative action as a term that refers to programs designed to ensure that women, minorities, and other traditionally disadvantaged groups have full and equal opportunities in employment, education, and other areas of life. Affirmative action was implemented to reduce discrimination practices based on race, gender and ethnic background. Most Americans feel that there is a need for affirmative action but there are also those Americans that feel that it will discriminate against white males and those best qualified for a particular job, school or other area of interest.

One advantage of affirmative action is that it helps those groups or persons that are at a disadvantage due to race, gender or ethnic background have a fair chance when applying for a job or admission to a university or college. Using a quota or preference system ensures that there will be some minorities hired in the...