A B+ for Grade Inflation

The Perverse Consequences of the Easy A by Rose Horowitch
The Atlantic, August 28, 2025

What happens when every student receives an A, or at the very least, an A-? Very little learning, contends Rose Horowitch in “The Perverse Consequences of the Easy A.” Using Harvard as her central example, Horowitch begins with the familiar topic of grade inflation’s negative impact on student motivation. This brief exploration, however, is just the foundation for her larger argument: that grade inflation is causing higher levels of student anxiety at Harvard and likely at other educational institutions, as well. At first glance, this argument seems counterintuitive. Citing interviews with faculty, administrators, and students, Horowitch shows that when “everyone” earns an A, the fear of a B+ becomes almost unbearable. Of equal concern is the enormous importance grade inflation has projected onto student clubs. In this culture, where A's are the norm, students seek distinction through co-curriculars that operate as quasi-jobs. Many independent school educators are engaged in their own discussions of grade inflation; Horowitch’s reminds us that making classes and grading easier will not automatically translate to better outcomes for students.

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