SamuZai
secondthought
secondthought

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Is The US Really A Meritocracy?

Howdy, friends! One of the most prevalent myths about American society is that we live under a perfectly fair, egalitarian system where anyone who shows intelligence and a good work ethic will succeed. Obviously this is not the case, but it's such a common claim that I figured I should make a video about it. You'll even get a bit of personal background info on me! Hope you enjoy!

Is The US Really A Meritocracy?

Comments

Hey! It’s actually a series, not a single documentary. It’s currently in production and the first episode should be out in about a month.

JT Chapman

Hey man, where can I find your documentary on fascism? It’s not on nebula or anywhere.

Jacob Swider

Thank you for honesty and truth. I’ve just realized according to your research that THEY have programmed algorithms based on WHO YOU KNOW. If your friends and family exhibit affluent behavior then that person will “suddenly “ rank higher and are “appointed “ more viewers. Social media has become a fraternity/sorority... more gatekeepers... exclusivity...where members can grow exponentially. Just another “subtle” form of eugenics.

I like some of the messages, but I can't agree that we shouldn't want to live in a meritocracy. I mean, your video says we don't live in one... if I've never truly experienced one, why should I be so certain I don't to live in a Meritocracy? All I've experience is a society that claims hard work and talent will get you places while you are clearly at a disadvantage to generational wealth. If everyone was on a level playing field, the concept doesn't seem bad. I'm not sure if that means capitalism has poisoned my mind. I want my hard work to pay off, unfortunately there are other people who will always get a leg up for a variety of factors out of my control.

Whereas the Opportunity Atlas is a great idea. The data driving it seems really outdated. If you look at the dates at about 4 minutes you can see Median Rent from 2012-2016 and Job Growth Rate from 2004 to 2013. Not the greatest data point due to relevance.

This might be my favorite video from you. The idea that we live in a meritocracy when we have Jared Kushner buying his way into Harvard is pretty laughable. Hell the educational system, specifically college, in America is a blatant example of how this country is literally based on Money not hard work.


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