What’s good, Baby?
Sure, some Nepo Babies are naturally gifted, but could hardly deny that their parents undoubtly smoothed the path. Now, what if these talented Nepo Babies are their parents carbon copy? Could it hurt how creative things get made?
Human Capital Theory emphasizes how investments in education, training, and experience boost a person’s productivity and earning potential. Nepotism acts like a shortcut or a form of daddy’s human capital investment. There is a possibility these children might even be "gifted by exposure," being raised in an environment that allows them to naturally absorb knowledge and experience relevant to their parents' field.
As nepotism was proven to raise corruption. It was explained that aside from Nepo babies, they may bring a light type of Efficient Grease Hypothesis. This theory proposes that a small amount of corruption, like nepotism, can actually grease the wheels of the economy by streamlining processes and reducing bureaucracy. In some cases, nepotism might lead to quicker decision-making within a company in practical (Franklin and Marshall College, 2013). Despite the theory, widespread nepotism is demonstrably more harmful, as it stifles innovation and economic growth (Econstor, 2016).
Baby Steps (One at a Time)
Questioning, why nations and industries keep hiring the wrong people? Is it wrong? Is it humane?  Cognitive biases in decision making and acquiring new information are indebted to us since birth. While nepotism may seem birthed and ingrained in certain industries, it's crucial to remember that everyone was a baby before— and babies need to learn.
As babies soon will get introduced to the economy, this means allowing them the opportunity to learn from their mistakes, pick themselves up, and try again— seeing if these babies could make it alone (without parental guidance)
To foster a truly meritocratic environment, we must prioritize fair and unbiased hiring practices in job markets, coupled with training programs that equip all candidates fairly. Ultimately, success should be determined by qualifications and hard work, not by the prominence of one's last name. By dismantling the cycle of nepotism and promoting equal opportunity, we can ensure the economy is under control in the hands of these babies’ future.
Perhaps it’s time to realize how ridiculous it is to worship these Nepo Babies, just because they’re a little bit like her father (Weird and Kinky, right?)
Diulas oleh: Mahira Alula | Ilmu Ekonomi 2023 | Staf Divisi Kajian Kanopi FEB UI 2024/2025
References
"The Anchoring Effect." Economic Research - St. Louis Fed, 1 Apr. 2021, research.stlouisfed.org/publications/page1-econ/2021/04/01/the-anchoring-effect
