Final answer:
Americans polled typically oppose preferential treatment in hiring and admission processes because they believe it goes against the principle of meritocracy and can result in less qualified individuals being selected. They also argue that it challenges an institution's own success and competitiveness.
Step-by-step explanation:
Americans polled typically oppose preferential treatment in hiring and admission processes because they believe that it goes against the principle of meritocracy. They argue that admissions and employment decisions should be based solely on an individual's qualifications and abilities, rather than factors such as race, ethnicity, or gender. They believe that preferential treatment can result in less qualified individuals being selected over more qualified individuals, which they see as unfair. Additionally, some argue that preferential treatment challenges an institution's own success and competitiveness by prioritizing diversity over merit.