How did the civil service examination favor aristocrats during the Tang Dynasty?

The civil service examination during the Tang Dynasty favored aristocrats by requiring candidates to have access to extensive education and resources, which were more readily available to the wealthy elite. Aristocratic families often had the means to hire tutors and acquire classical texts, giving them a significant advantage in preparing for the exams. Additionally, the examination system was designed to select individuals based on merit, but the underlying social structures and biases often meant that those from noble backgrounds were more likely to succeed, perpetuating their influence in government. Thus, while the system aimed to promote talent, it inadvertently reinforced the power of the aristocracy.