What is the term used for the practice of hiring government workers based on open, competitive examinations and merit?

The Civil Service System is the correct term for the practice of hiring government workers based on open, competitive examinations and merit. This system was established to ensure that the hiring process for government jobs is fair, transparent, and based on an individual's qualifications and abilities rather than political influence or nepotism. It emphasizes a merit-based approach, where candidates are assessed through competitive exams and other objective measures, ensuring that the most qualified individuals are selected for public service positions.

In contrast, the Civil Rights Act primarily deals with anti-discrimination laws rather than the specific hiring processes in government employment. The Equal Employment Opportunity Index focuses on measuring equality in employment opportunities, rather than the mechanics of the hiring process itself. Affirmative Action refers to policies that aim to increase the representation of historically marginalized groups in employment, which is distinct from the objective merit-based hiring principles of the Civil Service System. Thus, the Civil Service System embodies the ideals of meritocracy and fairness in public sector employment.