Life at the Bottom
The Worldview That Makes the Underclass
Book • 2003
The book, drawn from essays published in City Journal, explores the worldview of the underclass in Britain.
Dalrymple argues that the persistence of poverty is due to a set of values that deny personal responsibility, are reinforced by an elite culture, and are exacerbated by the welfare state.
He uses numerous true-life vignettes to illustrate the destructive behaviors and mindsets of the underclass, highlighting themes such as the lack of personal responsibility, the destruction of family ties, and the pervasive influence of social determinism.
Dalrymple's writing is praised for its clear, witty prose and its ability to address complex social issues directly.
Dalrymple argues that the persistence of poverty is due to a set of values that deny personal responsibility, are reinforced by an elite culture, and are exacerbated by the welfare state.
He uses numerous true-life vignettes to illustrate the destructive behaviors and mindsets of the underclass, highlighting themes such as the lack of personal responsibility, the destruction of family ties, and the pervasive influence of social determinism.
Dalrymple's writing is praised for its clear, witty prose and its ability to address complex social issues directly.
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Mentioned by Jordan B. Peterson as a writer he admires for content and prose quality; compared to George Orwell.
170. Life at the bottom | Theodore Dalrymple (AKA Anthony Daniels)
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Charlie Kirk
Charlie and Vivek's "Prove Me Wrong" Team-Up at UPitt
