nepotism

This term carries a strong negative connotation, implying a breach of meritocracy and a betrayal of professional ethics. It describes a specific type of corruption where familial ties override competence, creating an environment of unfairness and systemic bias.

As an uncountable noun, it refers to the general practice or phenomenon of favoritism. It does not have a plural form in standard usage; one does not refer to multiple nepotisms, but rather to instances or acts of nepotism.