Policy & Power
These readings argue inequality is best explained by ______ rather than individual effort.
Systems and policy decisions - not individual effort.
What does “structural racism” mean in the context of wealth and mobility?
Systems that create racial inequality over time, even without obvious racism.
What is the key difference between wealth and income?
Income is what you earn and wealth is what you own minus debt.
Why does geography matter for economic mobility?
Where you live shapes schools, jobs, and opportunity.
What does the myth of merit assume about inequality?
That success comes only from hard work and good choices.
Name one policy area that actively shapes economic opportunity.
Housing, education, taxes, jobs, criminal justice, or social welfare policy.
How does intergenerational wealth transfer reinforce racial inequality?
Wealth gets passed down, so past advantages and exclusions continue.
Why is wealth more predictive of long-term security than income?
Wealth provides security, savings, and a cushion that income can’t.
What community-level factor is strongly linked to children’s outcomes?
Adult employment levels in the community.
What evidence from the readings contradicts the myth of merit?
Wealth gaps exist even at the same income and education levels.
Why don’t “same rules for everyone” policies reduce racial inequality?
Because “equal rules” ignore unequal starting points created by racism.
Why aren’t education and jobs enough to close racial wealth gaps?
Because jobs and degrees don’t replace inherited wealth or erase debt and discrimination.
How does focusing only on income distort social policy solutions?
It ignores debt, assets, and long-term stability.
How does place-based analysis challenge “bootstraps” narratives?
It shows success isn’t just about effort; it depends on access to opportunity.
Who benefits when inequality is framed as individual failure?
People and systems already in power.