The new upper class in America has its advantages and disadvantages, but it is argued that living without them is not a good option. Individual members of this class are often seen as friendly, polite people, and they have played a significant role in improving the economy and living standards in the country. Since World War II, America has focused more on finding and developing cognitive talent, which means identifying people with high intelligence and skills. This has led to more qualified individuals taking on important jobs and improving work efficiency.
A historical example from the New York City Police Department in 1940 shows how selecting police recruits based on their cognitive abilities led to better performance later on. The recruits from that year had higher ranks and committed fewer misconducts, demonstrating that having talented people in an organization can lead to positive outcomes for both the organization and the economy.
From the mid-1970s onwards, many technological and economic advancements started happening as talented individuals entered the workforce. Innovations improved everyday life, making products and services better and more accessible. While there are issues related to the new upper class, such as their isolation from regular society, their presence also provides valuable benefits that improve life for many people.
Trying to reduce income inequality through high taxes is viewed as risky because it could decrease productivity and drive talented people to seek opportunities elsewhere. The culture of the new upper class is shaped by their shared interests and lifestyles, not just their wealth.
Overall, the new upper class is likely to continue living in exclusive areas with others like them. This can result in a culture that is different from the mainstream, leading to a lack of understanding of the wider population's experiences. Any changes in this dynamic would likely need to come from the members of this class wanting to be more engaged with the broader society for their benefit and the good of the country.