Great point. There is a general undercurrent in America that because the playing field is "level", it's your own damn fault if you aren't advancing. Social services are for the unfortunates and children, but once you're 18 if your life isn't together you deserve to be on the street. You had your chance at a good life!
I used to believe this too before I was immersed in a hostile, inner-city environment and educated on the negative pressures involved with growing up in such environment. It really is hard to break out of an environment like that when you are held down by a certain standard of living and education must be prioritized around protecting the lives of you and your family members.
I do believe that "success" is entirely subjective. For some people getting a full time job in the local factory is a huge achievement and the stability of that income does wonders for a family unit.
For others nothing short of passing university with a first and jetting off to a glittering career is called success.
For this reason I never judge anyone anymore. The human condition means they are probably doing their absolute best to get by!
