20 hours ago
- The author hypothesizes that fragmentation in US politics, culture, and economy stems from the erosion of forces that previously pushed society together, specifically World War II and the rise of large corporations.
- World War II decreased economic and social variation through wage controls, high taxes, and military conscription, creating a flattening effect that persisted after the war.
- The 20th century saw the rise of big national corporations that produced cultural and economic cohesion by standardizing products, employment practices, and social norms, leading to a conformist society.
- Starting in the 1970s, the Duplo economy disintegrated due to factors like globalization, technological innovation, deregulation, and the rise of startups, driving fragmentation in business, income, and culture.
- The breakup of mid-century cohesion led to increased economic inequality, social diversity, and mobility, as salaries became market-driven and individuals pursued varied paths to fortune.
- The author concludes that fragmentation is a reversion to long-term trends amplified by technology, making it unlikely to fully reverse; efforts should focus on mitigating its consequences rather than eliminating it.