Clique-ism

Clique-ism refers to the practice of favoring members of a small, exclusive group (a clique) over individuals outside that group, often in contexts involving social interaction, professional opportunities, or resource allocation. This preferential treatment manifests as exclusion, bias, and limited access for non-members. Clique-ism undermines meritocracy and fairness, promoting inequality and hindering collaborative efforts. It operates on social dynamics and shared interests or backgrounds to create boundaries and foster in-group solidarity. The consequences of Clique-ism can be profound, leading to damaged morale, reduced productivity, and perpetuation of limited perspectives within organizations or communities. It also creates a sense of isolation and can lead to unfair disadvantages for those excluded.

Clique-ism meaning with examples

• In the workplace, Clique-ism manifested when promotions went exclusively to individuals from a particular university, sidelining equally qualified candidates from other institutions. This created resentment and discouraged broader employee participation, hindering overall team performance. The perception was clear: it was not about talent but about belonging to the 'right' group.
• During the university admissions process, Clique-ism surfaced when legacy applicants and students from specific preparatory schools received disproportionate consideration. This unfairly disadvantaged applicants with stronger qualifications from diverse educational backgrounds, undermining the principles of equal opportunity and inclusive admissions policies, raising ethical concerns about fair practice.
• At a local community center, a clique-ism-driven committee consistently awarded grants to projects proposed by its members, neglecting innovative proposals from external organizations. This limited community development and fostered resentment. Resources were effectively hoarded within the clique, preventing equitable distribution of support within the community.
• In a social club, Clique-ism thrived when new members were deliberately excluded from key events and decision-making, fostering an unwelcoming atmosphere. The inner circle perpetuated itself through mutual support, while outsiders struggled to integrate, ultimately leading to reduced diversity in membership and viewpoint.
• During a company social event, employees felt Clique-ism when a small group formed exclusive conversation circles, ignoring others and leaving those on the periphery feeling isolated. The event's goal of fostering social bonds was thus undermined, damaging morale and potentially creating workplace friction among employees.