Grutter v. Bollinger

Definition

Grutter v. Bollinger is a landmark Supreme Court case from 2003 that upheld the use of affirmative action in university admissions, specifically at the University of Michigan Law School. This decision affirmed that educational institutions could consider race as one factor among many to achieve a diverse student body, while also balancing the issue of reverse discrimination against non-minority applicants.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Grutter v. Bollinger decision was a 5-4 ruling by the Supreme Court, which emphasized the importance of diversity in higher education as a compelling interest.
2. The case centered around Barbara Grutter, a white applicant who claimed that her rejection from the law school was due to the affirmative action policy that favored minority applicants.
3. The Court ruled that while race could be considered in admissions, it should not be the sole determining factor and that universities must have a holistic review process.
4. This case built upon earlier rulings regarding affirmative action, particularly Regents of the University of California v. Bakke, which allowed for race to be considered in admissions decisions.
5. Grutter v. Bollinger has had lasting implications on how colleges and universities across the U.S. approach diversity and affirmative action in their admissions policies.

Review Questions

• What were the main arguments presented by Barbara Grutter in her case against the University of Michigan Law School?
  • Barbara Grutter argued that the affirmative action policies employed by the University of Michigan Law School resulted in her unfair rejection based on her race. She claimed that these policies constituted reverse discrimination against non-minority applicants, as they prioritized racial considerations over merit. Grutter's contention was that such practices violated her rights under the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.
• How did the Supreme Court justify its decision to uphold affirmative action in Grutter v. Bollinger, and what criteria did it establish for universities?
  • The Supreme Court justified its decision by recognizing diversity as a compelling interest in higher education, emphasizing that a diverse student body enhances the educational experience for all students. The ruling established that while race can be a factor in admissions decisions, it cannot be the sole factor. The Court insisted that universities must use a holistic review process, evaluating each applicant on multiple criteria, ensuring that race is just one element among many considered.
• Evaluate the broader societal implications of Grutter v. Bollinger on discussions around affirmative action and diversity in education.
  • Grutter v. Bollinger had significant implications for ongoing debates about affirmative action and diversity within education, influencing both public opinion and policy-making. The ruling reinforced the legality of considering race in college admissions, promoting diversity as an essential aspect of educational environments. However, it also sparked renewed criticism and opposition from those who argue that such policies perpetuate inequality and undermine meritocracy. The case continues to shape how educational institutions develop their admission strategies and engage with issues surrounding race and equality.

Related terms

Affirmative Action: Policies aimed at improving opportunities for historically marginalized groups in areas like education and employment.

Reverse Discrimination: The practice of giving preferential treatment to individuals from historically disadvantaged groups at the expense of those from more privileged backgrounds.

Diversity: The inclusion of individuals from various backgrounds and identities within a group or organization, particularly in educational settings.