Competitive examinations are used for two purposes. At school and college they give a stimulus to study by rewarding with reputation, prizes, and scholarships, those who show that they have learned most. They are also used in the selection of officers for the military and civil services.
Looking at them from an educational point of view, every one must allow that they have a wonderful effect in encouraging hard work. Many boys who, without the stimulus of competition, would refuse to take any interest in their lessons, pursue their studies with the greatest industry in the hope of surpassing their rivals.
In this way they are induced to expend upon their work the energy which otherwise they would display only in their games. Only a few students love knowledge for her own sake. The majority seek knowledge as a means of success in life, or as a possession which will give them the pleasure of triumphing over their associates.