[analog31]

It means that GDP doesn't buy prosperity.

We've been told for decades that letting our economy turn out like Europe's was something to fear, while they outpaced us in virtually all quality of life measures.

We can no longer claim being the richest country in the world as a source of uniqueness or justification -- handed to us by the gods. I think this is part of the reason for the present descent into authoritarianism.

[AlexandrB]

> I think this is part of the reason for the present descent into authoritarianism.

Which? The American descent into authoritarianism or the European descent into authoritarianism?

[nielsbot]

the descent into authoritarianism is a result of the failure of neo-liberals to represent the working class.

unfortunately the wealthy are going to concede more wealth and power or it will continue.

[h2zizzle]

To finish the story here, a look back:

https://bsalert.com/news/2596/Who_Are_You_Better_Than.html

People in this country perennially choose wanting to be "better than" over wanting to be happy.

[nielsbot]

Working class solidarity is the only solution.

I recently realized that people should understand they have more in common with (and must have solidarity with) the next people down on the socio-economic rung instead of trying to climb the ladder in hopes of joining those on the next rung up.

[h2zizzle]

It will never happen, especially with the racialized nature of that socioeconomic ladder. The country that generates downvotes on a post recognizing the similarities between BLM/Floyd Protests and the Euromaidan (https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43389979) could never.

[nielsbot]

I think awareness is growing