[achompas]

"The way you were raised, namely with wealthy or less fortunate parents, also plays a role. Gladwell explains that when wealthy parents drive their children to the doctor, they tell their children things like, “Johnny, now if you have any questions, be sure to ask the doctor. This is your opportunity to talk to him about any health problems you’re having….” And so on.

Disappointed that, in a thread about asking questions, no one has asked whether this Gladwell anecdote generalizes (especially since Gladwell is king of "anecdote == universal fact.")

Can anyone comment on this quote?

[rhizome]

I wouldn't put Gladwell down that much, he's simply a contemporary writer of fairy tales to me. Aesoplike, they have lessons and histories that we can potentially relate to, while not attempting to be the last word. Does Gladwell's writing need to be any more than a nudge in whatever direction the reader is already inclined?

That said, I never liked that passage. There are passive and active parents in all walks of life, but I don't think the economics are the point of the quote as much as an admonishment to take a bit more control.