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nepotism

IPA:

Dictionary definition of nepotism

The practice of favoring one's own family members or close associates in business or political appointments, regardless of their qualifications or merit.
"The company was accused of nepotism when the CEO's son was given a high-level position."

Detailed meaning of nepotism

This can take the form of giving family members preferential treatment in hiring, promotions, or other opportunities, or using one's position of power to benefit their family members or friends. Nepotism can undermine the principles of merit-based systems and create perceptions of unfairness and corruption. In many cases, nepotism can harm the credibility and effectiveness of organizations and institutions, leading to decreased trust and morale among employees and the public. Nepotism can also create conflicts of interest and raise questions about the impartiality and fairness of decision-making processes. As a result, many organizations have policies in place to prevent and discourage nepotism in order to promote fairness and merit-based decision-making.

Example sentences containing nepotism

1. Widespread nepotism plagued the organization's leadership.
2. The CEO's nepotistic tendencies angered shareholders.
3. Political nepotism undermined the nation's governance.
4. Nepotism often results in unqualified individuals holding key positions.
5. Breaking free from the cycle of nepotism is a formidable task.
6. The scandal revealed the extent of nepotism in the company.

History and etymology of nepotism

The noun 'nepotism' finds its etymological roots in the Latin word 'nepos,' which means 'nephew' or 'grandchild.' In the early Roman Catholic Church, 'nepotism' was used to refer to the practice of popes and other high-ranking clergy appointing their nephews or other relatives to positions of power and influence, often irrespective of their qualifications. This practice became particularly prominent during the Renaissance period when several popes appointed their nephews to important positions within the Church. Over time, 'nepotism' came to symbolize the broader act of favoring one's own family members or close associates in various spheres, such as business or politics, based on personal relationships rather than merit. Thus, the term's etymology reflects its historical association with familial favoritism in ecclesiastical appointments.

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Further usage examples of nepotism

1. Nepotism can corrode meritocracy within institutions.
2. Nepotistic hires led to a decline in company performance.
3. Addressing nepotism requires a culture of transparency.
4. Public outcry forced the government to confront nepotism.
5. Nepotism perpetuates inequality in opportunities.
6. Nepotistic practices undermine employee motivation.
7. A nepotism-free workplace fosters innovation and fairness.
8. Legislators debated ways to combat political nepotism.
9. The organization adopted strict anti-nepotism policies.
10. Rooting out nepotism is a long-term cultural challenge.
11. Nepotism scandals tarnished the company's reputation.
12. Nepotism has far-reaching consequences in society.
13. Leaders must set an example by rejecting nepotism.
14. The fight against nepotism continues to gain momentum.
15. Nepotism is the practice of favoring family members in the workplace.
16. Nepotism can lead to a lack of diversity and qualified individuals being passed over for opportunities.
17. The manager's nepotistic tendencies resulted in a toxic work environment.
18. Nepotism is considered unethical and can damage an organization's reputation.
19. Nepotism, cronyism and favoritism are rampant in modern politics.
20. The employee was passed over for promotion due to the manager's nepotistic inclinations.
21. Nepotism can create a culture of favoritism and undermine the morale of non-related employees.
22. The company's hiring practices were criticized for being nepotistic.
23. Nepotism can lead to a lack of accountability and a lack of merit-based decision making.
24. The politician was accused of nepotism when his daughter was appointed to a high-level position.
25. Nepotism can perpetuate cycles of privilege and disadvantage within an organization.
26. The board of directors was accused of nepotism when they appointed the chairman's nephew as CEO.