Saturday, November 26, 2011

The Dwindling Power of a College Degree

This article is very interesting showing how technology and the needs of labor changes over time. Before back in the 1970s having a college degree guarantee a job right away now a bachelor degree is only a base. You will need more than that more specific skills and charm. Some jobs are more obsolete such as secretaries. Out sources are more common as well.
Nothing guarantees you anymore for a good job some believe "that if they played by the rules . . . they would have the chance to build a good life.”
During the 1970s there were stabilizers which keep working class wages up and rich's wages lower. Before the top bracket was taxed 70% in 1978 and its 35% now. But not there are more inequality.
There are 40 millions of people who are unskilled theses people are likely to be laid off. I'm not surprised to see that there are more inequality between the classes now than back in the days.

4 comments:

  1. If there is one thing I am worried about it is my life after college. Where will I find a job? This article opens up my eyes about how much luck it really takes to get a good job with all the perks people want. You have to be determined and driven to really get the job you want. I agree with you that with more unskilled laborers being laid off it will start making a bigger gap between classes however I think that American's don't really want the unskilled labor anyway.

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  2. I think it is interesting how so many people focus on inequality.
    It is true that inequality has increased in the U.S., but if you compare the poorest in the U.S. between the past and now, the poorest in the U.S. live a MUCH better lifestyle.
    This is due to a great growth in the economy.
    Does equality matter as much as long as the economy is growing?
    Would we want to sacrifice growth for more equality?
    I think it's an interesting topic.

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  3. As far as I can understand sectorial shifts are taking place in the economy and wither we like it or not those who train themselves as engineers or technicians are likely to end up with a job for sure. However for the rest of us, a lot depends upon our connections and dedication.

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  4. It is not surprising to see this topic again, and I think actually people now already get this idea. College degree is not enough. For some majors, especially scientific and engineering, a MA or PHD is highly suggested. For some majors which don't have too much competitive power, a higher level of education will be very helpful to get a job. Plus the economic condition is not positive and the unemployment rate has been pretty high, no doubt a college degree doesn't worth that much currently.

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