In 'The Son Also Rises,' economist Gregory Clark uncovers a fascinating narrative about social mobility across generations. Through groundbreaking data analysis, Clark challenges the myth of the American Dream by revealing startling patterns of wealth transmission among families. As he journeys through history, from the medieval period to the present, readers are confronted with unexpected truths about class and opportunity. The intricate interplay of genetics, culture, and circumstance unveils a sobering reality: the more things change, the more they stay the same. This thought-provoking exploration leaves us questioning our own beliefs about meritocracy and the future of social mobility.
By Gregory Clark
Published: 2015
""The past is not a mere prelude to the present; it is a force that shapes our very being, weaving through generations and echoing in the choices we make today.""
"How much of our fate is tied to the status of our parents and grandparents? How much does this influence our children? More than we wish to believe! While it has been argued that rigid class structures have eroded in favor of greater social equality, The Son Also Rises proves that movement on the social ladder has changed little over eight centuries. Using a novel technique -- tracking family names over generations to measure social mobility across countries and periods -- renowned economic historian Gregory Clark reveals that mobility rates are lower than conventionally estimated, do not vary across societies, and are resistant to social policies. The good news is that these patterns are driven by strong inheritance of abilities and lineage does not beget unwarranted advantage. The bad news is that much of our fate is predictable from lineage. Clark argues that since a greater part of our place in the world is predetermined, we must avoid creating winner-take-all societies."--Jacket.
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“"The past is not a mere prelude to the present; it is a force that shapes our very being, weaving through generations and echoing in the choices we make today."”
The Son Also Rises
By Gregory Clark
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Gregory Clark is an esteemed economist and historian known for his innovative research on economic history and social mobility. He is a professor at the University of California, Davis, where he focuses on the interplay between historical institutions and modern economic performance. Clark gained widespread recognition for his influential book, "A Farewell to Alms," which explores the causes of the Industrial Revolution and its impact on economic inequality. His work often combines insights from historical data with rigorous economic analysis, challenging conventional narratives. In addition to his academic contributions, Clark is a sought-after speaker and has published numerous articles in prestigious journals, further establishing his reputation in the field.
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