Excellence

Excellence may be measured by comparing the achievements either of different people carrying out a similar task or of the same person carrying out similar tasks on several occasions. The former gives an idea of the comparative excellence of individuals in a particular field, the latter a yardstick for measuring how well an individual is performing within his or her ability. Different societies and different times have honoured excellence in different fields. It is argued that, in order for individuals and society to develop, it is essential that aiming for excellence should be encouraged, with the emphasis on the aiming rather than the achievement. Such arguments go back as far as Plato who, in the Republic, makes provision for special privileges, training and responsibilities for the most able. This argument is counterbalanced by the dangers inherent in the [superman]

doctrine of Nietsche as realized in fascist and racist movements. However, the over-egalitarian society may stifle excellence, resulting in a mediocre lowest common denominator.