The author got a lot of things right, but I'm suspect of his main thesis - that you can't relate to the lower class if you go to a private school. There are few to no downsides to going to an elite school, other than cost.
That said, the benefits of top private schools are overstated.
The main benefit goes to those of average intelligence who would get annihilated at a large state school - what the author refers to as an "endless string of second chances."
You also make a lot more connections with people who will ultimately end up in power positions, which makes life easier as you rise up the ranks.
If you're smart enough to be a top student at an Ivy League school, it really doesn't matter much where you go.
That's not his main thesis, that's his opening anecdote. His main point is that the experience of elite education can shape one's values and expectations in a way that are negative for the individual and for society.
That said, the benefits of top private schools are overstated.
The main benefit goes to those of average intelligence who would get annihilated at a large state school - what the author refers to as an "endless string of second chances."
You also make a lot more connections with people who will ultimately end up in power positions, which makes life easier as you rise up the ranks.
If you're smart enough to be a top student at an Ivy League school, it really doesn't matter much where you go.