The disappearance of the middle class and its impact on society ✍️ Hisham Mahmoud Suleiman
The middle class has always been the backbone of societies, because it represents the “grenade of the scales” which maintains the balance of social and economic relations within society. This class was not only an economic level, but was the main incubator of values, culture and knowledge, as it included intellectuals, executives and influential professions. Its presence was a guarantee of the stability of societies, because it was the link that connects the poor and the rich and ensures fluid movement between social segments.
The importance of the middle class: –
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The middle class was the station through which individuals passed when their economic conditions changed. He who rose among the poor found himself part of this class, and he who suffered economic decline among the rich also fell into it. serving as a bridge connecting different parts of society and preventing divisions that might arise between different classes.
Additionally, the middle class was a center of cultural and intellectual renaissance, as it included academics, professionals, and employees in leadership positions. These people were able to lead society towards progress thanks to their economic stability and the educational opportunities provided. for them.
Manifestations of the disappearance of the middle class:-
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In recent decades, the middle class has been exposed to great pressures due to global and local economic changes. These pressures include:
1. Growing economic inequality. The growing gap between the rich and the poor has led to the shrinking of this class. Economic policies sometimes focus on promoting the interests of the upper class while leaving the middle class to suffer stagnation or decline.
2. High cost of living With the increasing costs of education, healthcare and housing, the middle class has become unable to maintain its previous standard of living.
3. Changes in the labor market. The growing reliance on technology and the digital economy has led to the loss of many traditional jobs that supported the stability of this class.
The impact of the disappearance of the middle class: –
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The disappearance of the middle class has serious consequences on the stability of societies, because its absence means a growing polarization between the rich and the poor, which leads to the destabilization of the social balance and the spread of manifestations of tensions and tensions.
economically:-
Demand for goods and services is falling, with the middle class being the main consumers
socially:-
Perceptions of inequality are increasing, which increases the risks of spreading crime and unrest.
Culturally: –
Societies are losing a vital source of creativity and innovation because this class was most closely linked to education and culture.
The need to restore the middle class:
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To protect the stability of society, we must work to strengthen the middle class through:
A. Fair economic policies reduce the class gap by imposing progressive taxes and providing support programs for the middle classes.
B. Improve educational opportunities and provide quality education to all to ensure the development of this class
C. Create stable employment opportunities
Ensure the provision of sustainable jobs that meet the needs of the middle class.
In conclusion:-
The disappearance of the middle class is not just an economic problem, but rather a challenge that threatens the stability of entire societies. The preservation and development of this class is necessary to achieve balance and justice and ensure the continued development of society towards a better future.