Richard Hofstadter reflects on the viewpoint of Herbert Hoover, who believed that economic success is determined by individual ability, likening it to a race. Hoover, having risen from poverty to wealth and the presidency, would likely defend this perspective by citing his own life story. However, Hofstadter critiques the validity of personal success as a measure of broader economic principles, suggesting that such experiences can be misleading.
He posits that a person whose life has been filled with triumph may struggle to comprehend the hardships faced by others in a failing economy. This perspective reveals a disconnect between individual achievement and the complexities of collective economic challenges, emphasizing that success does not necessarily translate to an accurate understanding of systemic issues.