We DO have equality of opportunity? Not so sure.
To say something like that would be to assume that crony capitalism no longer exists, that the market place is driven by pure competition, and that individuals are hired always on merit. Not sure if that's the case. It's a buddy/buddy world out there. The "best family" will always beat out the "best man".
I think you're oversimplifying things.
I do agree with you in that Obama's mention of the argument is purely politically motivated, and quite insincere.
Yes, we do have equality of opportunity. The fact that some have to work harder for the opportunity does not mean that it does not exist.
No one ever said that everyone would reach the top or that everyone would not fail. Equality of opportunity includes both the opportunity to succeed and the opportunity to fail.
equal results were not ever guaranteed
I understand your argument and agree with most of it, however I think you're failing to understand mine.
My point is that crony capitalism is on the rise (vs on the fall), and that politicians are becoming less and less honorable/ethical, and that this is seriously beginning to threaten a poor American's ability to ascend and succeed if they have the skill and talent to do so.
Maybe it's always been that way - I don't know - however I've read at least a few books that have mentioned the fact that a Congressperson on a defense committee today wouldn't think twice about attending a fundraiser and rub shoulders with powerful defense lobbyists whereas 50 years ago that type of thing would be heavily frowned upon as unethical.
My point is that we're headed in the wrong direction, and that any resemblances of a "free market" are quickly fading with each passing year.
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I think we are pretty much in agreement. corporate and special interest bribery of politicians is a problem. Liberal thinking is another problem.
As to the defence industry, that industry employees millions of americans in good paying blue and white collar jobs, those companies and their employees pay billions in federal taxes.
the industry is not the problem, the problem is the DC mindset that the USA has to police the world and force our value system on other countries.
the best warship or plane or tank is one that is never used but the enemy knows that it could be if necessary.
I favor term limits and a ban of all types of lobbying.