Cronyism [kroh-nee-iz-uhm]

Somebody asked me to post the definition of cronyism. Seeing how I got nothing else for today, here it is... Cronyism is partiality to long-standing friends, especially by appointing them to positions of authority, regardless of their qualifications. Hence, cronyism is contrary in practice and principle to meritocracy (wherein appointments and responsibilities are objectively assigned to individuals based upon their "merits", namely intelligence, credentials, and education.) Cronyism exists when the appointer and the beneficiary are in social contact; often, the appointer is inadequate to hold his or her own job or position of authority and for this reason the appointer appoints individuals who will not try to weaken him or her, or express views contrary to those of the appointer. Politically, "cronyism" is derogatorily used.