Social Inequality Research Paper
Although there has been a stark rise in inequality across the globe, the United States has seen an even higher and faster increase in inequality compared to more developed countries. Why has this country, known for it's economic success and higher opportunities, leave more and more people below the poverty line? A variety of factors, both external and internal, have contributed to this decrease in social mobility. One of the factors contributing to this staggered distribution is the rise in technology. This advancement in technology in the past decades have spurred the advancement of some jobs while making others obsolete. The jobs that technology complements, including statisticians and financial analysts, require people to earn college degrees.
…show more content…
In 1950, many people were employed by manufacturing jobs given by the onset of the industrial revolution. However, as little as twenty percent of people have manufacturing jobs. These jobs are being replaced by lower wage jobs, including cashiers, sales representatives and childcare workers. Deindustrialization has been especially true in America due to the outsourcing of manufacturing overseas. Labels like "made in China" have contributed to poor sweatshop conditions for many across the globe. Ridiculously low wages and inhumane working conditions have become a way of life for people overseas.
The failure of government polices to fight social stratification, has further catalyzed the effects of social inequality. For example, our current $7.25 per hour wage seems like a fortunate raise compared to the $2 per hour wage during the 1970s. However, this wage does not count for the rise in inflation over the years as a $2 per wage is equivalent to $9 wage today. Taxing polices have also given an upper hand to the higher class. Tax deduction and special privileges for the wealthy have skewed the distribution of wealth in the country. In conclusion, while technological innovations, deindustrialization and government polices have made quality of life easier for some, it has also made it harder for
In 1950, many people were employed by manufacturing jobs given by the onset of the industrial revolution. However, as little as twenty percent of people have manufacturing jobs. These jobs are being replaced by lower wage jobs, including cashiers, sales representatives and childcare workers. Deindustrialization has been especially true in America due to the outsourcing of manufacturing overseas. Labels like "made in China" have contributed to poor sweatshop conditions for many across the globe. Ridiculously low wages and inhumane working conditions have become a way of life for people overseas.
The failure of government polices to fight social stratification, has further catalyzed the effects of social inequality. For example, our current $7.25 per hour wage seems like a fortunate raise compared to the $2 per hour wage during the 1970s. However, this wage does not count for the rise in inflation over the years as a $2 per wage is equivalent to $9 wage today. Taxing polices have also given an upper hand to the higher class. Tax deduction and special privileges for the wealthy have skewed the distribution of wealth in the country. In conclusion, while technological innovations, deindustrialization and government polices have made quality of life easier for some, it has also made it harder for