Richard Hofstadter's book "Anti-Intellectualism in American Life" touches on the shift in society from individual greatness to the importance of the systems that shape people’s success. In the past, society celebrated great men who amassed wealth through their skills and efforts. These individuals were often seen as the driving force behind prosperity and innovation.

In contrast, Hofstadter argues that today's achievements are less about individual greatness and more about the systems that provide opportunities. This reflects a change in perspective where fortune is created by the collective framework of society rather than solely by extraordinary individuals, acknowledging the role of larger structures in defining success.