Taking into consideration this brief history of Boston's elite institutions, do you agree or disagree with President Obama that the basic bargain--or social contract--in American society is that you will get ahead if you work hard and meet your responsibilities? Is this a merit-based society?

If you agree it is the basic bargain, can you pinpoint any problems with this kind of social contract?

Are there things that can inhibit "getting ahead" for those who work hard and meet their responsibilities?

What role does merit play in accessing and joining elite institutions?

What role does merit play in accessing and joining power structures, in becoming part of a meritocracy?