The system of police hiring based on political connections is known as?

• A. Merit
• B. Cronyism
• C. Patronage
• D. Meritocracy

Answer: (C)

Patronage is the practice of giving jobs or favors to political supporters in exchange for their backing, rather than selecting candidates based on qualifications alone. In policing, hiring based on political connections fits this pattern, where positions may go to individuals because of their political ties rather than their demonstrated abilities. This stands in contrast to merit-based hiring, which relies on qualifications, tests, and proven performance, and to meritocracy, where advancement is driven by ability and achievement. Cronyism involves favoritism toward friends and close associates, which can overlap with patronage, but patronage specifically centers on political backing as the basis for appointments.