by our own bootstraps by Michael Cox and Richard Alm

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.

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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.