ABSTRACT
As we move to the modern period, this effort must be preceded by the clarification of terms. What is affirmative action? Does it have the same meaning for both its proponents and opponents? Are all affirmative action advocates striving for the same thing or is there a diversity of meanings among supporters as well as challengers of such policies and programs? Is there a difference in what is meant by affirmative action in different countries? More importantly, does the debate underlying the affirmative action shell differ between countries? This last question will be addressed in Part III of this study.
