Cronyism
Cronyism is a specific form of in-group favoritism, the spoils system practice of partiality in awarding jobs and other advantages to friends or trusted colleagues, especially in politics and between politicians and supportive organizations.[1] For example, cronyism occurs when appointing "cronies" to positions of authority regardless of their qualifications.[2] This is in contrast to a meritocracy, in which appointments are made based on merit. Politically, "cronyism" is derogatorily used to imply buying and selling favors, such as votes in legislative bodies, as doing favors to organizations, or giving desirable ambassadorships to exotic places.[3]
Etymology[edit]
The word crony first appeared in 17th-century London, according to the Oxford English Dictionary and is believed to be derived from the Greek word χρόνιος (chronios), meaning 'long term'.[4]
A less likely but oft-quoted source is the supposed Irish term Comh-Roghna, which translates as 'close pals, mutual friends'.