Merrill-Lynch Application???

From the readings in Taking on the Big Boys on page 75, for some reason, which I still do not understand, Merrill Lynch gave all applicants a test that included this question, "Which quality in women do you consider most important?" the choices included beauty, intelligence, dependency, independence, and something labeled "affectionateness. Each choice was assigned a certain amount of points- two each for dependency and affectionateness, and one for beauty. If the applicant answered intelligence or independence they got a zero. This might be one of the most disgraceful things I have ever heard of. Whether this survey was given 30 years ago or 100 years ago it absolutely inappropriate. To think that people that were the head of the application process in the 70's could still possibly be working there is sickening. This survey or test does not just represent the survey committee of Merrill Lynch but also represents the whole company and what the company stands for. Just to think about the logic behind the test is mind-boggling. If you were attracted to an independent woman or a intelligent woman then Merrill lynch did not want you working for them, if you are attracted to those type of women then will that affect your work performance? Will it affect your work hours? I just am unable to fathom the idea of this test. If anyone is able to explain any positive reason for this test please do, I am interested.