noun
spoils system
A political practice where elected officials appoint supporters to government positions as a reward for loyalty, rather than based on merit. Used in discussions of political history and public administration.
猟官制度は、政権交代のたびに官僚の大規模な入れ替えを引き起こす。
The spoils system causes a large-scale replacement of bureaucrats every time the administration changes.
The merit system, which emphasizes hiring and promotion based on ability and qualifications, in contrast to the spoils system.
Compound of 猟官 (ryōkan, 'office-seeking') and 制度 (seido, 'system'). The term is a direct translation of the English 'spoils system'.