Final answer:
Affirmative action has been a subject of controversy, primarily related to college admissions and workplace hiring practices. Supporters argue that it is necessary to address historical discrimination and provide equal opportunities for underrepresented groups, while critics contend that it can prioritize factors other than merit and may result in reverse discrimination. The controversy revolves around questions of fairness, meritocracy, and the balancing of social goals with individual qualifications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Affirmative action has been a subject of controversy, primarily related to college admissions and workplace hiring practices. Supporters argue that it is necessary to address historical discrimination and provide equal opportunities for underrepresented groups. Critics contend that it can prioritize factors other than merit and may result in reverse discrimination. The controversy surrounding preferential treatment in affirmative action revolves around questions of fairness, meritocracy, and the balancing of social goals with individual qualifications.