I have frequently seen Boston Latin School described in the media as a meritocracy.

Since a meritocracy has been defined as “government or the holding of power by people selected on the basis of their ability,’’ and the Latin School is famous for its numerous outstanding graduates, it would appear that this appellation is correct.

Continuing coverage suggests that, according to some, meritocracy is not the preferred method for selecting who shall attend the school, because the makeup of the student body does not mirror that of the entire city.

That prompts one to wonder what other method would be better, and to ask: When did selecting people on the basis of their ability become racist?

Edward Lawrence

Natick