Educated Underclass: Students and the Promise of Social Mobility

The Educated Underclass examines the societal restructuring of universities, reproducing traditional class hierarchies, enabling upward and downward social mobility, and hindering students due to the overproduction of intelligence. The dream of social mobility is dying.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2019
Publisher: Pluto Press

In a world plagued by an abundance of graduates competing for limited job opportunities, we witness the emergence of a peculiar phenomenon: Deliveroo and FedEx drivers possessing advanced degrees. The Educated Underclass emerges as a crucial exploration of this societal transformation, shedding light from the perspective of students. Gary Roth delves into the pervasive nature of universities, where they perpetuate traditional class hierarchies, establish mechanisms for upward and downward social mobility, and inadvertently hinder students due to the overproduction of intelligence. Roth fervently advocates for a fundamental reimagining of the functioning of social classes in our contemporary society, urging us to address the declining dream of social mobility.

The landscape of employment has undergone a profound shift, with the prospects for today's graduates appearing increasingly bleak. In previous generations, it was commonly believed that individuals could surpass the economic achievements of their parents. However, the reality we face today is markedly different. The job market is saturated, and competition for coveted positions is fierce.

The Educated Underclass sheds light on the mechanisms that contribute to this predicament. Roth argues that universities often perpetuate traditional class hierarchies, creating a system that perpetuates inequality and limits opportunities for students from lower social backgrounds. Additionally, the emphasis on academic excellence and the overproduction of intelligence can hinder students, as they may struggle to find meaningful employment that aligns with their skills and interests.

Furthermore, the dream of social mobility is fading. The promise of upward mobility, once a cornerstone of the American Dream, seems to be diminishing. Factors such as income inequality, stagnant wages, and the increasing cost of education have made it increasingly difficult for individuals to achieve economic success. The gap between the rich and the poor has widened, and the middle class is being squeezed.

The Educated Underclass offers a call to action. Roth urges us to reevaluate the current educational system and its focus on academic achievement. He advocates for a more holistic approach that recognizes the diverse needs and aspirations of students. This includes providing access to quality education, vocational training, and mentorship programs that can help individuals find meaningful employment and achieve economic stability.

Moreover, the book highlights the importance of social mobility and the need to create a more equitable society. Roth argues that the current system perpetuates inequality and limits opportunities for individuals based on their social class, race, and gender. It is essential to address these systemic issues and work towards creating a more inclusive and just society where everyone has the chance to thrive.

In conclusion, The Educated Underclass is a thought-provoking and timely book that sheds light on the societal restructuring that is taking place. Gary Roth's examination of the way universities perpetuate traditional class hierarchies, the mechanisms that enable upward and downward social mobility, and the overproduction of intelligence provides a valuable perspective from the student's point of view. The book calls for a fundamental reimagining of the functioning of social classes in our contemporary society and advocates for a more holistic approach to education that recognizes the diverse needs and aspirations of students. By addressing the declining dream of social mobility and working towards creating a more equitable society, we can strive towards a brighter future for all.

Weight: 238g
Dimension: 136 x 215 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780745339221