By now, you might be thinking that the Matthew Effect could be connected to the convulsions of civil unrest occurring throughout the world. Perhaps you suspect this idea has very broad social implications.
It does.
Advantage that comes from societal position is a root cause of much of the economic and civil disparity in the world today. In America, some societal advantage can be generated just from being born into the combination of white, male, straight, and able-bodies, to name just a few unearned traits.
The Matthew Effect can either propel ideas forward or breed injustice, resentment, and an invisible caste system that holds worthy people back from success.
From “Cumulative Advantage: How to Build Momentum for Your Ideas, Business, and Life Against All Odds” by Mark W. Schaefer
