Question:Which of the following is an example of ‘positive discrimination’ rather than ‘positive action’ on equal opportunities?
  A.Selecting a certain number of people from ethnic minorities for jobs, regardless of job-relevant selection criteria
  B.Using ethnic languages in job advertisements
  C.Setting targets for the number of people from ethnic minorities that the organisation would like to see in managerial positions
Answer:A
 
  Rationale:Positive discrimination (treating a minority group ‘unfairly’ well) is not permitted,except in relation to training provision. ‘Quotas’ are positive discrimination, because selection decisions cannot be justified on non-discriminatory grounds: ‘targets’ (as in option C) are ‘positive action’ – because they lead organisations to encourage under-represented groups to apply for jobs, and make non-discrimination a performance measure for selectors.