Societies thrive when their most deserving members are promoted to higher positions. On the other hand, societies that routinely promote their less deserving members, the "well-connected, mediocre," are doomed to deteriorate and degenerate!
The pattern of "well-connected, mediocre" persons assuming prominent positions is more or less widespread around the world. However, the very nature of mature societies provides enough opportunity for recognition for many of their deserving individuals! I don't believe there is another civilized country in the world that supports "well-connected, mediocre" people to such an extent (at the expense of the worthy) as modern Greece!
