There’s No Such Thing as Merit

One disagreement about what exactly qualifies as “merit” made me reevaluate everything I believed to be true. Whether art, science, or athletic accomplishments could ever be evaluated by a single, impartial criterion was a topic of much discussion among friends.

The idea of “objective merit” is a reassuring delusion, I maintained.

It quickly became clear that our judgments were colored by our personal experiences and tastes. While we might all agree that outcomes like peace or trade are beneficial because they seem to promote greater human flourishing, the very idea of what “flourishing” means requires a subjective leap of faith.

In essence, every claim to objective merit is underpinned by personal values that cannot be detached from our perspectives.

The Illusion of Objective Merit: A Critical Examination

It’s easy to claim that some systems of judgment are more “objective” than others. However, when we scrutinize the basis of these systems, we realize that every evaluation of merit is ultimately rooted in human preference.

For instance, many argue that peace, trade, or the avoidance of nuclear war are objectively good because they lead to greater human flourishing. But ask yourself: How do we first decide that “greater human flourishing” is inherently better than its absence? That judgment itself is a subjective value.

We are compelled to admit that no matter how rigorous our evidence may be, there will always come a point where we must declare something good or desirable “for its own sake.” And at that moment, our claim to objectivity dissolves into a personal, subjective judgment.

The Infinite Loop of Subjective Values: A Rabbit Hole of Judgment

When we argue about merit, we quickly find ourselves caught in an endless loop. Take the idea that greater human flourishing is preferable because it fosters more love, discovery, and art.

But then, how do we prove that these outcomes are “good” without invoking another subjective value? Before long, you realize that every objective argument rests on an initial subjective assumption. This creates an infinite regress:

Greater human flourishing is good because it promotes more love and art, which are good. After all, they lead to even more flourishing, and so on.

This loop forces us to acknowledge that while objective arguments are incredibly useful, they can never stand alone without some subjective value at their foundation.

Subjective Value in Everyday Life: The Economics of Taste

The concept of subjective value isn’t just an abstract philosophical idea — it has practical, everyday implications.

Consider a simple transaction at a local deli: When you pay a dollar for a cup of coffee, you’re not merely exchanging money for a beverage. You’re expressing a personal judgment that, at that moment, the coffee is worth more to you than the dollar. Conversely, the deli owner values the dollar higher than the cup of coffee he serves.

This dynamic is the essence of voluntary exchange. It illustrates that nothing in our world has an inherent, fixed value. Whether it’s a cup of coffee, a piece of art, or even your work, the value assigned is based on individual preference.

Understanding this economic reality is crucial for anyone navigating business or creative pursuits. It reminds us that our perceptions of merit — and taste — are as diverse as the people who hold them.

The World of Art and Taste: Beyond Objective Criticism

Art is perhaps the clearest arena where subjective values reign supreme. In the realm of creativity, objective arguments take a backseat. A good story or a beautiful painting appeals directly to personal taste, bypassing the need for rigid, universal standards.

When artists create, they engage with the viewer’s subjective values, challenging some while confirming others. This interplay is what makes art so powerful — and so controversial.

Yet, even in art, debates over merit often circle around the same point: that there is no absolute standard. As much as we might wish to argue “objectively” about art, such arguments invariably end up reflecting personal preferences. In other words, when people argue about art, they are not truly debating taste — they are simply circling it.

The Lesson: Embracing Subjectivity in a World Without Objective Merit

The core insight here is that objective merit is an illusion. Every evaluation, every measure of success, and every judgment of quality is ultimately based on subjective values.

1. Acknowledge the Subjective Leap : Whether you’re assessing human flourishing, artistic quality, or the worth of a simple cup of coffee, remember that a leap of faith is always involved.
2. Value the Diversity of Perspectives : Our world thrives on the diversity of our tastes and preferences. Recognizing that there is no universal standard of merit can foster more open, tolerant discussions and encourage innovation.
3. Apply This Insight in Real Life : In your career, relationships, and creative endeavors, be aware that success and quality are not absolute. Instead, they depend on context, personal values, and the dynamic interplay of individual tastes.
4. Reframe Arguments About Taste : Instead of fighting over who is “right,” consider how differences in perspective can lead to richer, more varied outcomes. Embrace the fact that your subjective value is as valid as someone else’s.

Ultimately, this recognition liberates us from the futile pursuit of objectivity in areas where it simply cannot exist. It allows us to focus on what truly matters: the choices we make, the values we uphold, and the unique contributions each of us brings to the table.

Embracing Subjectivity

Understanding that there is no such thing as objective merit is not just a philosophical exercise — it has practical implications for every aspect of our lives. When we accept that value is inherently subjective, we can better appreciate the rich tapestry of human experience and the diverse opinions that make our world vibrant.

Reflect on your judgments. Are you willing to make that subjective leap of faith? Do you see beauty in a world where taste is personal and merit is context-dependent?

Share your thoughts, spark a debate, and let’s work together to embrace a world where subjectivity is celebrated!🎨🤝