In “Class in America-2003,” Gregory Mantsios argues that America favors the rich and a person’s race and class standing greatly influences their wealth, health and education. By comparing the myths and realities of the American dream of equal opportunity, Mantsios defends his claim. By examining economic data, diving examples of various social classes and their class privileges, and discussing how race and gender greatly affect the lives of Americans in the workplace, Mantsios establishes a plethora of sources which he uses to define his thesis. In this essay I will focus on the purpose of Gregory Mantsios’ text.

In America, economic data can show the massive differences between the rich and poor. Mantsios writes, “The wealthiest 1 percent of the American population holds 38 percent of the total national wealth.” Whereas, “one of every eight people in this country—live below the official poverty line.” How can so few own so much when so many can barely make it by? It shows that the idea of equal opportunity is not true. If every person wanted to become successful and be free from poverty, they would be able to in an equal opportune society. However, they are not able to. By continuing to show economic statistics, Mantsios further qualifies his claim. He also notes that when there is a boom in the economy, the income of the rich greatly increased where the income of the middle and lower class only increased slightly. Since the majority of Americans fall into the middle and lower class brackets, the few flourish while the many barely get by. By using many examples of economic differences to show that Americans are not equal economically, Mantsios illistrates his claim.

Class privileges are what a person is more likely to get from his economic status: a wealthy person will have much better privileges than a low wage worker. Mantsios tells the brief life stories of people from an upper, middle and lower class standing. By chronicling their lives, Mantsios shows that the upper class man, Harold S. Browning, succeeds very far to become the executive vice president of a digital instrument company because he had a wealthy family. From the time he was born he had good schooling and advanced tutoring in foreign language and mathematics. He was able to go to a highly renowned preparatory school and continued on to an Ivy League liberal arts college. This propelled him to a very highly paid job to which he is chauffeured. His whole life was focused on becoming a better person academically and economically because his family was wealthy enough not to worry about finances. In contrast, Mantsios describes Cheryl Mitchell. She is a 38 year old black woman who is a nurses aid making $15,820. Raised by her grandmother, while attending public school in Brooklyn, Cheryl works as a babysitter rather than improve her academics. Due to lack of funds, she quits her community college at 17 to work at a bakery. The difference between Harold and Cheryl is that their lives are directly related to the wealth of their parents. Harold could focus on his schooling and business skills to better his future as an employee whereas Cheryl had to drop out of school to work, just like she had throughout high school.

Not only does a parent’s economic status affect their children, but a person’s race and gender greatly deter economic advancement. Mantsios explains that “racial and gender domination are other forces that hold people down.” He believes that if a person is non-white or female, they will face oppression no matter the profession. “As women, they face discrimination and male domination.” “Similarly, a wealthy black man faces racial oppression.” Even if a person is able to advance themselves financially, they still face discrimination based on their appearance.

The American dream is a collection of ideas that say that hard work and determination will lead to success no matter your economic status: an idea which Mantsios disproves. Though there are four myths, the primary myth is that everyone from any social or economic background has an equal chance to succeed. However, a person’s life is greatly determined by their parents and economic bracket or physical appearance. Being a minority or female greatly increases you chances of being poor in America. Mantsios’ purpose throughout “Class in America—2003” is to show that America is not equal economically and is based on race and your parent’s economic bracket.

Can anyone give me their opinions on how to make this better?

What is your question?

??

What"LessonS" must the underpriveledges learn in order to overcome the social class barriers Mantsios discuss?

Overall, your analysis of Gregory Mantsios' argument in "Class in America-2003" is well-written and clear. However, there are a few areas where you can improve your essay:

1. Introduction: While you provide a good overview of Mantsios' argument, consider restructuring the introduction to provide a more concise and focused thesis statement. This will help readers understand the main purpose of your essay from the start.

2. Use stronger topic sentences: Make sure each paragraph begins with a topic sentence that clearly states the main point of the paragraph. This will help guide your readers and make your arguments clearer.

3. Provide more evidence and analysis: While you explain Mantsios' argument, try to include more specific examples from the text to support your points. This will make your analysis stronger and more persuasive.

4. Proofread for grammar and style: Go through your essay to check for any grammar or punctuation errors. Additionally, consider varying your sentence structure to improve the flow and readability of your writing.

Overall, your essay provides a solid analysis of Mantsios' argument. By making these improvements, you can enhance the clarity and strength of your arguments.

Your essay provides a good summary of the main points and arguments made by Gregory Mantsios in "Class in America-2003." However, there are a few areas where you can improve the clarity and organization of your writing. Here are some suggestions:

1. Introduction: Begin your essay with a concise and clear thesis statement that explicitly states Mantsios' purpose in writing the text. For example: "In 'Class in America-2003,' Gregory Mantsios aims to debunk the myth of equal opportunity in the United States by highlighting the influence of race, class, and gender on wealth, health, and education."

2. Use paragraphs: Divide your essay into paragraphs to organize your thoughts and arguments more effectively. Each paragraph should focus on a specific idea or point. This will make it easier for the reader to follow your analysis.

3. Evidence and examples: While you provide some evidence from Mantsios' text, it would strengthen your essay to include more specific examples and quotes to support your analysis. For instance, include more direct quotations from Mantsios to demonstrate his arguments regarding economic inequality and the impact of race and gender.

4. Development of ideas: Ensure that each paragraph develops a specific point or theme related to Mantsios' argument. Transition smoothly between ideas and provide clear topic sentences at the beginning of each paragraph to guide the reader.

5. Conclusion: Summarize your main arguments in a clear and concise manner. Restate Mantsios' purpose and highlight the significance of his work in exposing economic and social inequalities. Avoid introducing new ideas in the conclusion.

Remember to proofread your essay for grammar and spelling errors. Additionally, make sure to properly cite any direct quotations or references to Mantsios' work to avoid plagiarism.