Plain English with Derek Thompson
America's Young Men Are Falling Behind—and Shifting Right
Oct 11, 2024
Richard Reeves, President of the American Institute for Boys and Men, shares insights on the struggles young men face today. He explores the decline in educational and economic opportunities, with more young men living at home while women advance. Reeves discusses the psychological impact of feeling unneeded and the importance of community for male identity. He highlights a political divide, noting how young men are increasingly leaning right, feeling excluded by progressive politics. The conversation reveals how cultural and economic factors intertwine in today's shifting landscape.
50:27
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Quick takeaways
- Young men in the U.S. face significant educational and economic challenges, leading to increased isolation and a struggle for independence.
- The political landscape is shifting, with many young men feeling alienated from progressive ideals, reflecting their overlooked needs in discourse.
Deep dives
The Decline of Young Men's Educational Attainment
Young men in the U.S. have seen a stark decline in educational attainment over the past few decades, particularly regarding college enrollment rates. In 1984, male high school graduates were more likely than their female counterparts to attend four-year colleges, but this trend has reversed, with women now outpacing men significantly. This stagnation in male college enrollment is concerning, especially considering an economy that rewards higher educational qualifications with better job opportunities. As a result, young men without college degrees are increasingly struggling to establish independent lives, contributing to broader trends of isolation and economic uncertainty.
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