The quote from Ronald Wright's "A Short History of Progress" reflects a unique perspective on the perception of class struggle in America. According to Wright, socialism has struggled to gain traction in the United States because many individuals in lower economic positions do not identify as part of an oppressed working class. Instead, they envision themselves as individuals who are temporarily facing financial difficulties, but with aspirations of wealth and success. This mindset suggests that many Americans hold onto the hope of improving their circumstances, aligning themselves with the ideals of capitalism rather than socialism. The belief in the possibility of upward mobility may contribute to a reluctance to embrace socialist principles, as people prefer to see themselves as future millionaires rather than part of an exploited group. This cultural attitude plays a significant role in shaping political ideologies and the acceptance of various economic systems in the country.

The quote from Ronald Wright's "A Short History of Progress" reflects a unique perspective on the perception of class struggle in America. According to Wright, socialism has struggled to gain traction in the United States because many individuals in lower economic positions do not identify as part of an oppressed working class. Instead, they envision themselves as individuals who are temporarily facing financial difficulties but with aspirations of wealth and success.

This mindset suggests that many Americans hold onto the hope of improving their circumstances, aligning themselves with the ideals of capitalism rather than socialism. The belief in the possibility of upward mobility may contribute to a reluctance to embrace socialist principles, as people prefer to see themselves as future millionaires rather than part of an exploited group. This cultural attitude plays a significant role in shaping political ideologies and the acceptance of various economic systems in the country.