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Classless society Quote by Jane Mayer

“The United States, which idealized itself as a classless society in which everyone had the opportunity to get ahead, had in fact fallen behind many other rich nations in terms of intergenerational economic mobility, including such old-world, class-bound countries as France, Germany, and Spain.” quote by Jane Mayer
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““The United States, which idealized itself as a classless society in which everyone had the opportunity to get ahead, had in fact fallen behind many other rich nations in terms of intergenerational economic mobility, including such old-world, class-bound countries as France, Germany, and Spain.””

Jane Mayer

About This Quote

Source Article: "The American Dream is Fading", The New Yorker, 2021

The US, once seen as a meritocratic society, now lags behind many European nations in intergenerational mobility, contrary to its self-image.

In simple terms: US mobility has declined compared to Europe.

Key Takeaway

Address structural barriers to mobility.

Themes

economics social inequality mobility

Mood

analytical critical

Type

policy research

When to use this quote

  • public policy reform
  • education investment
  • economic research

Key Concepts

policy analysis comparative study

Questions to Reflect On

  • What policies could improve mobility?
  • How does perception affect policy action?
A Different Perspective

Changing deep-rooted systems is complex and politically contentious.

3.9 out of 5 (3 ratings)

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