http://forums.delphiforums.com/n/mb/message.asp?webtag=sammyboymod&msg=81049.1Simply put, you call this fake meritocracy.
=====
Coffee Shop Talk - AndrewKuan.com!!! Subscribe
From: jbharding (Japarmy) 28-Aug 22:34
To: groundnuts unread 68 of 68
79269.68 in reply to 79269.67
Here is my opinion of FTs. First, Singapore's educational system,
although good academically, is not desinged to instill self-
confidence in students. At IRAS we had many of the best former NUS
students working for us. In general, they were, however, programmed
not to take charge. This is compounded by putting an FT, in this case
me, in charge of the IRAS computer operation. My initial contract was
for two years. I was extended to a third, before going off (for a
better salary) to Citibank.
By putting FTs in key position, Singapore blocks its own people from
advancing on merit. In this way Singapore controls who gets ahead,
and who doesn't. Only the favored succeed, and it more ones attitude
than ability that enables him to go ahead.
In this way, those at the top can pick and choose those who will
never challange them. Singapore is not alone is operating this way.
At Citibank, the CEO, John Reed was noted for surrounding himself
with weak people. That way John Reed could stay on top, which he did
for some time. Eventually, however, John Reed was forced out of
Citibank as a result of its merger with Travelors.
FTs are the roadblocks who are put in place to prevent Singaporeans
from getting ahead.