The Death Of Social Mobility

 

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The income gap is indeed political. Which is why the two most democratic tigers have done the most to redress inequality. Under Chen, Taiwan has expanded national health-insurance coverage, boosted educational stipends and low-interest loans, and bolstered protections offered workers, farmers and the elderly. In South Korea, President Roh has redistributed wealth via higher taxation and expanded social welfare for the poor. Yet the income gap in all four tigers continues to widen—a trend with implications not lost on Koh, the well-to-do shipbuilder. ''I feel sorry for today's youth, who have so much trouble finding jobs." he says. ''Things were tougher in the past, but there were always opportunities, too." The contrast with today couldn't be starker: the tigers have put the days of abject want behind them. Yet they're in danger of losing the dynamism that so recently permitted society's rare talents to flourish regardless of their station.

With B. J. Lee in Seoul and Sonia Kolesnikov-Jessop in Singapore

© 2007

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Member Comments

  • Posted By: yis2 @ 03/12/2008 10:46:19 AM

    USA will still prosper because a secondary education does not equal true success, and US technical/vocational/universities are ranked the best in the world, a four year university degree does not mean better prospect in America. Asia and non-western nations still think better future with a 4 year "top" university why? Bbecause they lack economic diversity like USA and rely heavily on tests.

  • Posted By: Shankardada2 @ 11/15/2007 3:08:17 PM

    A good post-secondary education will be a must soon in all countries. Without one, it will be hard to make it in the 21st century. The manufacturing is now left to machines and the third world. Get used to it.

  • Posted By: rubysmama35 @ 11/08/2007 1:18:25 PM

    Plug in USA for Korea, Singapore, Taiwan and Hong Kong, and ask yourself "Does this story sound familiar?"

    I guess I feel better knowing that it's not just me getting screwed - it's international!!

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