The We Society S7 Ep6: Improving social mobility through education and language with Lee Elliot Major
15 snips
Feb 19, 2025 Lee Elliot Major, Britain's first professor of Social Mobility at the University of Exeter, discusses crucial ideas from his book, Equity in Education. He emphasizes a shift in perspective, arguing that children should be seen as under-resourced rather than disadvantaged. The conversation highlights the alarming decline in social mobility since 1980 and critiques existing education systems. Major calls for transformative educational reforms, embracing diverse talents, and addresses global challenges in achieving equity, ultimately advocating for a dialogue change to tackle socioeconomic disparities.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Declining Social Mobility
- Downward mobility is increasing, with 35% of adults now worse off than their parents.
- This is a reversal of the post-war trend, and it impacts factors like homeownership and basic living standards.
Education and Employment
- Social mobility depends on both education and employment opportunities.
- Inequities in the workplace hinder progress even with equal education.
Bin Man Turned Professor
- Lee Elliot Major, despite being labeled a "bin man turned professor," emphasizes the value of all jobs.
- He advocates for recognizing diverse talents beyond academia.
