Adventure Quote by Ross Douthat
“That the actual practice of meritocracy mostly involves a strenuous quest to avoid any kind of downward mobility, for oneself or for one's kids, is something every upper-class American understands deep in his or her highly educated bones.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Decadence of the West, 2021
Meritocracy often means avoiding downward mobility for oneself and children, a concern of the upper class.
In simple terms: Upper class worries about staying above the bottom.
Key Takeaway
Recognize meritocracy’s protective bias.
Themes
class
meritocracy
mobility
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
sociological
reflective
When to use this quote
- education planning
- career counseling
- policy debates
Key Concepts
sociology
economic inequality
Questions to Reflect On
- How does meritocracy affect social mobility?
- What policies can reduce downward mobility?
A Different Perspective
Meritocracy can ignore systemic barriers.
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