I think this is very astute.
The US was (supposedly) founded on the idea of equality, but people misinterpret equality of opportunity (which is what we have, however warped it may be) for equality of circumstance. They think, "hey, we're all equal, so I should have everything Joe Smith has RIGHT NOW and I shouldn't have to pay for it!" Everyone feels entitled. No one is entitled. We all have the opportunity for upward mobility, but it must be worked for, which most people are reticent to do.
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