The merit system is characterized by:

• A. Based on loyalty to the party in power
• B. Based on merit and qualifications
• C. Based on geographic origin
• D. Based on random selection

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is that public hiring and advancement are based on merit and qualifications rather than political connections. In a merit system, hiring and promotion rely on objective criteria like exams, education, experience, and demonstrated performance, often through civil service processes. This creates a professional, competent bureaucracy and reduces the influence of political patronage. The other options describe bases that don’t ensure competence: loyalty to the party in power points to a patronage or spoils system; geographic origin implies bias or discrimination; random selection ignores qualifications entirely. That focus on ability and credentials makes the merit-based option the best choice.