Many people become very upset about affirmative action based upon race or gender, but how does this differ from legacy? 

Let’s think about affirmative action from this perspective. When looking at education (especially in ivy league schools), many students are admitted based upon family legacy or association, sports affiliation, etc. Many people become very upset about affirmative action based upon race or gender, but how does this differ from legacy? Are they the same? Is it fair to equate the two? Is there a difference, if so what is it? Is this the same? If so, how is it the same?