The American Myth of Social Mobility

The American Myth of Social Mobility is an article that draws on recent data to point out that while Americans believe our country provides the greatest opportunity to go from rags to riches.. the facts do not bear this out now. Many other wealthy countries have more social mobility than America. Social mobility is measured by looking at generational income or the difference between fathers and sons’ incomes. One thing the article does highlight, is that the American Equation still holds true statistically. That is, if you work hard and go to college and graduate, you are likely to earn more money than those who do not. The facts, however, also show that this is harder and harder for families with low incomes. The article demonstrates how the education gap in America between low income and higher income families statistically predicts a lower social mobility.

This article suggests that our schools are a key engine in improving the social mobility for Americans.