ABSTRACT
The most destructive myth, underlying the theory of reverse discrimination, is that affirmative action would inevitably result in the hiring of “unqualified” minorities and women instead of “qualified” white men. Many people persist in defining affirmative action as “preferential treatment”. Thus complaints of “reverse discrimination,” in which white men claim to be suffering in the job market by the alleged “preferential” treatment being given to minorities and women, have been increasing. Affirmative action plans must actualize an understanding of the differential effects of both racism and sexism on women and minority men. Women and men were asked different questions; whereas males were asked to choose between “travel to outer space” or “exploring the bottom of the ocean,” women were asked to choose between "being married to a rancher,” or “being married to a corporation president.” The situation of women in science highlights the need for some drastic changes.
