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Keep in mind that Ann is making arguments about consequences. Her first argument is the role model argument. It is common to hear someone argue that strong affirmative action creates good role models and that good role models have a very significant influence on how young people think and behave. It is not so common to hear anyone put forward solid evidence to support these claims. What kind of information would you need to confirm or refute Ann's argument? Could you use statistics on school graduation rates? Unemployment rates? Public opinion poles? How exactly does one prove or disprove the role model thesis?

Ann's second argument that affirmative action will increase the supply of skilled black workers. Some critics disagree with her. They argue that strong affirmative action has provided new opportunities for a small group of blacks, but has not increased the supply of well-educated or highly skilled black workers.

Again, Ann's argument requires empirical evidence. What kind of evidence would you need to confirm or refute it? For examples of how social science data can be used to support or refute this kind of claim, look at Christopher Jencks' book Rethinking Social Policy. Then try to develop your own view.