But *what* is keeping us poor? (Not "poorer" since even the poor are in better shape than ever before).

Is it evil corporations, or benevolent politicians spoon-feeding people just enough to rob them of initiative to "get more?"

Evil corporations who, in my experience want to hire the *best* people they can find for their money. Sure, there are the Amazon's who want to cycle through warehouse workers as fast as possible because it fits their profit model, but most businesses want to invest in people because it's cost-effective to do so.

You speak of what people want. My parents didn't choose a career they liked, they chose what would make money.

Fuck higher ed. We have such a strong need for tradespeople, and there is good opportunity for those willing to work for it.

I grew up in a middle-class family, and yet made it into the top 2%. My adult children mostly appear to be on a similar track.

Two through education and two through entrepreneurship.

The problem isn't that the American Dream is gone, it's that we think it's a gift which doesn't have to be earned.

For some reason, it has become the "American Expectation", and will fail as such.

The American Dream is alive and well. Ask your local legal immigrant.