In the United States, what is social class something you are born into?

Social class in the United States is often understood as a system that encompasses various factors such as economic status, education, occupation, and cultural capital. While individuals may be born into certain socioeconomic conditions that can influence their social class, it is not a static or unchangeable trait.

In fact, many individuals have the opportunity to change their social class through education, career advancement, and personal development. The American Dream ethos promotes the idea that hard work and determination can lead to upward mobility, demonstrating that social class is not solely determined by birth. This fluidity in class structure reflects a diverse society where opportunities for change can exist despite initial circumstances.

Therefore, asserting that social class is something one is born into ignores the possibilities of social mobility and the complex factors that contribute to an individual's positioning within the social hierarchy.