@pluralistic I think I understand what that essay is trying to do - point at the role of privilege - but it's vastly overstating its case. A quick glance at the list of Nobel Prize winners reveals many from relatively humble backgrounds. The statement also requires people to deny the evidence of their eyes and ears. A lot of people have met someone who really is truly impressive, ambitious, and effective, who has gone on to do great things. Privilege obviously exists, and so does talent.