Question

Answer

Reader Response Essay

In "By our own bootstraps," Cox and Alm discuss the concept of social mobility and how individuals can rise above their circumstances through hard work and determination. They argue that America is not an egalitarian society and was not designed to be one (Alm & Cox, 1995). On the other hand, in his famous speech "I Have a Dream," Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. argues for the equal treatment of all individuals, regardless of their race or socioeconomic status (King, 2022). These two perspectives highlight a tension between the ideals of equality and the reality of social inequality in America. Egalitarianism refers to the belief in the equal distribution of resources and opportunities among individuals. In an egalitarian society, everyone would have an equal chance to succeed and achieve their goals, regardless of their background or circumstances. However, as Cox and Alm argue, America has only sometimes lived up to this ideal.

Response

I agree with Cox and Alm that America is not an egalitarian society. While the Declaration of Independence states that "all men are created equal," this has not always been the case in practice (Alm & Cox, 1995). Throughout American history, certain groups of people have faced discrimination and barriers to success due to their race, gender, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status.

For example, Dr. King's work as a civil rights activist highlights how African Americans have been systematically disadvantaged in America. Despite the promises of the Declaration of Independence and the Civil Rights Act of 1964, African Americans have historically faced discrimination in housing, education, employment, and the criminal justice system (King, 2022). Because of this, it has been hard for many African Americans to get the same opportunities and resources as their white peers. This has made it harder for them to find happiness and succeed.

Furthermore, I have witnessed how social class can impact an individual's opportunities and success. Growing up in a low-income household, I often felt I had fewer opportunities than my wealthier peers. Despite working hard in school and striving for success, I faced financial barriers to higher education. I struggled to afford the same extracurricular activities and experiences that my wealthier peers took for granted. It made it difficult for me to compete with my more privileged peers, and I often felt that I was at a disadvantage because of my socioeconomic status.

Despite the progress in achieving equality, it is clear that America still needs to become an egalitarian society (Alm & Cox, 1995). While some individuals can rise above their circumstances through hard work and determination, as Cox and Alm suggest, this is not the case for everyone. Many people still face barriers and discrimination that keep them from getting the same opportunities and resources as their more privileged peers.

Conclusion

While equality and the pursuit of happiness are central to the American identity, it is clear that America has only sometimes lived up to these ideals. Despite the progress that has been made in achieving equality, there is still work to be done to create a more egalitarian society. I agree with Cox and Alm that America is not an egalitarian society. However, we can work towards a more equal and just society. By acknowledging and addressing the systemic inequalities that continue to exist in America, we can strive towards a society in which all individuals have the opportunity to succeed and pursue happiness.

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References

Alm, R., & Cox, W. M. (1995). By our own bootstraps: Economic opportunity and the dynamics of income distribution. Annual Report, pp. 2–24.

King, M. L. (2022). I have a dream. HarperCollins.