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The Hill
3 days ago
- Politics
- The Hill
In a liberal society, equity is a false idol
Over the last two decades, progressive activists have introduced lots of sententious words and euphemisms into the U.S. political lexicon. Examples include microaggression, intersectionality, cisgender, BIPOC, Latinx, 'the unhoused' (that is, the homeless), returning citizens (ex-convicts) and 'pregnant persons' (formerly 'women'). For those not up to speed on the latest academic conceits and ideological fads, including non-college voters streaming out of the Democratic Party, progressives might as well be speaking Esperanto. They have also infused old words with new meanings. Take 'equity.' Specifically, it means ownership in a house or stocks. But in its new meaning, it is used more generally as a synonym for fairness. Now, it has become a pillar of DEI — the hallowed trinity of diversity, equity and inclusion that defines today's 'social justice' ethos. In this context, 'equity' conveys a demand for something stronger than mere equality. The National Association of Colleges and Employers, an enthusiastic advocate of DEI, parses the difference by defining equity as 'fairness and justice' that is 'distinguished from equality.' 'Whereas equality means providing the same to all, equity means recognizing that we do not all start from the same place and must acknowledge and make adjustments to imbalances.' After the George Floyd-Black Lives Matter summer of 2020, bureaucracies set up to inculcate DEI spread like kudzu throughout government, colleges and public schools, philanthropies and private companies. Job applicants were taxed with describing how they would endeavor to advance diversity, equity and inclusion in their daily work. Democrats duly clambered aboard the equity express. On his first day in office in 2021, President Biden ordered federal agencies to develop Equity Action Plans to advance 'racial equity and support for underserved communities through the federal government.' But DEI's reign was brief. Working class voters, across racial lines, saw it at best as a distraction from their struggles with high living costs and worries about immigration and crime, and at worst as a coercive regime set up by self-righteous elites to correct their thoughts and speech. Their antipathy toward progressive moralizing played a significant role in sinking Kamala Harris and the Democrats last year and returning the failed coup plotter, President Trump, to the White House. The president believes he won a mandate to stamp out all vestiges of DEI in America. His minions are firing anyone in the federal government associated with diversity and affirmative action programs. In yet example of executive overreach, Trump also is threatening private colleges, businesses and civic institutions with political retribution if they don't fall in line. How should Democrats respond to this MAGA version of cancel culture? The same way they should have responded to the left-wing original — by standing up unequivocally for liberty of conscience and free speech. But they should also reflect on the ferocity of the public backlash against a sectarian identity politics that subordinates the general welfare to the pursuit of 'equity' for favored groups. Maybe it wasn't such a bright idea for progressives to abandon Martin Luther King's dream of a colorblind society in favor of group preferences, DEI, critical race theory, and related ideas that fragment Americans along lines of race, ethnicity, gender and sexuality. Fixating on the differences between groups makes it impossible to build a broad, center-left alliance, especially when non-college Americans, a majority of the electorate, are either left out of the left's hierarchy of victimized groups or assigned the oppressor role. Democrats, however, should reject race essentialism and equity not because they're unpopular, but because they are illiberal. In America's liberal tradition, individuals have inalienable rights and liberties, not groups. That many originally were excluded from equal citizenship is reason to apply these principles universally, not discard them. Liberals from Jefferson to Franklin D. Roosevelt to Barack Obama also have drawn a clear line between the aspirational goal of equal opportunity and utopian guarantees of equal outcomes. Show me a country that claims to have achieved the latter, and I'll show you a totalitarian society that oppresses its subjects and relies on a privileged class of apparatchiks to rule them. The late sociologist Seymour Martin Lipset (a mentor and friend) identified our native strain of liberal anti-statism as the reason European socialism never took deep root here. Americans, he noted, invested heavily in universal public education to give everyone an even start, while Europeans built welfare states to 'correct' markets' failure to distribute wealth evenly. The Mandarin left deems Europe's social democracy as morally superior to America's liberal democracy. But U.S. working families don't rank reducing inequality as a top economic priority. They're more interested in pro-growth economic policies that generate abundant opportunities for upward mobility, keep inflation and debt down, lower the cost of life's essentials, curb illegal immigration and help them acquire the skills necessary to get ahead in a fast-changing economy. To them, equity connotes elite attempts to rectify past injustices at their expense. Social reform movements in this country succeed when they invoke the liberal universalism of the American creed rather than imported political doctrines like democratic socialism. That's why liberals and Democrats should depose the false idol of equity and rededicate themselves to fighting discrimination in all forms, promoting equal opportunity and advancing the common good. The old rallying cry of Jacksonian democracy still illuminates the way forward: 'Equal opportunity for all, special privileges for none.'
Time of India
28-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Graduated together, paid unequally: Why do American women early in their careers still make 18% less than men?
They took the same classes, wore the same cap and gown, and stepped into the workforce with equal ambition. Yet, within months of graduation, the numbers already tell two different stories: American women early in their careers are earning, on average, just 82 cents for every dollar their male peers make. A new analysis by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) lays bare the persistent gender pay gap that emerges right after graduation, and doesn't fade over time. Even among full-time professionals who earned their bachelor's degrees in the last seven years (2017–2023), women's average salary was $63,822, compared to $78,114 for men. A pay gap that starts early The 18% gap closely mirrors findings from NACE's First Destination Survey for the Class of 2023, where women graduates earned just 80% of what men earned. What's more striking is that this gap remains steady across the first decade of work, pointing to structural inequities rather than temporary fluctuations. Experts say this isn't just about starting salaries, it's about career trajectories, industry choices, and opportunity access that differ sharply by gender. Why the gap? It's not about effort One of the clearest culprits is occupational segregation: the fact that men and women tend to enter different industries after graduation. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Brain tumor has left my son feeling miserable; please help! Donate For Health Donate Now Undo According to NACE: Men are more likely to be in manufacturing, finance, and engineering: industries with higher average pay. Women are overrepresented in education, healthcare, and nonprofit sectors, which tend to pay less despite similar qualification levels. Additionally, only 53% of women were employed full-time six months after graduation compared to 60% of men, with more women pursuing further education (23% vs. 19%). Equal starts, unequal strides Interestingly, when asked about job satisfaction, men and women reported similar levels: around one-third said they were extremely satisfied, and about half were somewhat satisfied. But when it came to how fast they felt their careers were progressing, men were slightly more likely to say their growth exceeded expectations. The reasons for career acceleration also split along gender lines: Men cited networks, leadership roles, and graduate degrees. Women pointed to mentorship and professional development as key drivers. This suggests that women may rely more on institutional support, while men are more likely to benefit from informal networks and positional power—forms of social capital that are harder for women to access early on. What can colleges and employers do? The findings paint a clear picture: Equal graduation doesn't mean equal opportunity. So what can be done? For educators and career services: Provide industry-specific salary data and negotiation training for all students, especially women. Expand mentorship programs with access to alumni and industry leaders. Normalise conversations around career confidence, not just career choices. For employers: Audit starting salaries and raise transparency around pay bands. Offer structured internal growth paths so women aren't left guessing their next move. Recognise that mentorship and networks are critical forms of equity, and actively support them. Bottom line: It starts on day one The gender pay gap is not just a late-career issue. As the NACE data shows, it's baked into the first steps of a graduate's professional life. Addressing it requires more than policy—it demands cultural shifts, targeted support, and intentional equity. Because if they graduated together, they deserve to rise together too. TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here . Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
Forbes
08-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
7 High-Income Skills That Open Doors To $100K Paying Jobs
Developing the right high-income skills is the key to unlocking $100k paying jobs. The job market is evolving rapidly, with skills-based hiring increasingly taking precedence over traditional degree requirements. A survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers found that nearly two thirds of employers now use skills-based hiring to identify candidates with the most potential. For professionals navigating a job search or seeking their next challenge, developing high-income skills is essential to landing roles that pay $100,000 or more. Below are seven highly sought-after skills that companies are actively hiring for, the six-figure positions they unlock and practical ways to start building them today. What Are High-Income Skills? High-income skills are specialized abilities that command premium salaries in today's job market—typically exceeding $100,000 annually. Unlike traditional career paths that rely heavily on formal degrees, these skills are valued for their direct impact on business outcomes and revenue generation. High-income skills generally fall into three main categories: These capabilities share four characteristics that make them valuable to employers: • High scarcity, high demand: Create a limited talent pool with strong employer need • Direct business impact: Drive revenue and solve critical problems • Continuous evolution: Require ongoing learning as technology advances • Strategic value: Combine technical expertise with strategic thinking Many of these abilities can be developed through online courses, certifications and hands-on practice, making $100k paying jobs achievable regardless of your educational background. 1. Data Analysis And AI Literacy Data analysis is the ability to collect, interpret and draw actionable insights from raw information to drive smarter decisions. AI literacy refers to understanding how artificial intelligence works and how to utilize AI-powered tools to enhance problem-solving and productivity. Together, these skills enable you to transform complex data into business value and leverage emerging technologies with confidence. Data-driven decisions power every industry. According to PwC's 2025 Global AI Jobs Barometer, workers with AI skills command a 56% wage premium--up from 25% last year. You can take beginner-friendly courses through platforms like Coursera, Google and edX. Practice with free datasets and tools like Excel, Python or Tableau to build hands-on experience. 2. Sales And Business Development Sales and business development involve identifying opportunities, building relationships and closing deals that generate revenue for an organization. These skill sets are rooted in effective communication, strategic thinking and the ability to persuade others. Successful professionals in this area help companies grow by connecting products or services with the right customers. High performers drive profit. Enterprise sales and business development roles are consistently in demand across various industries. You can read sales books, take LinkedIn Learning courses and build persuasive communication through real-world practice. 3. Project Management Project management is the process of planning, executing and overseeing projects to ensure they are completed on time and within budget. It requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail and the ability to coordinate teams with diverse skill sets. Effective project managers keep everyone aligned, resolve conflicts and drive results from start to finish. Organizations require skilled project managers to launch products and lead teams effectively. You can get certified through PMP or Scrum programs, lead volunteer or side projects and use project management software like Asana or Trello. 4. Digital Marketing Digital marketing is the practice of promoting products, services or brands through online channels like social media, search engines, email and content marketing. It blends creativity with analytics to reach target audiences, increase engagement and measure campaign success. Digital marketers employ a range of tools and strategies to help businesses thrive in the digital age. Every business needs a digital presence. Marketers with analytics and campaign skills can command high salaries. You can try free Google Analytics Academy, create your own blog or social channel and experiment with campaigns. 5. Leadership And Communication Leadership and communication skills are about inspiring, guiding and empowering teams to achieve shared goals. Strong leaders communicate clearly, listen actively and motivate others through vision and empathy. These human-centric abilities are critical for managing change, building trust and navigating complex workplace dynamics. Soft skills, such as emotional intelligence and strategic vision, are irreplaceable, even by AI. You can take on mentorship roles, join Toastmasters, seek feedback on communication and read leadership books. 6. Software Development / Programming Software development is the craft of designing, coding and maintaining applications or systems that solve real-world problems. Programmers use languages like Python, Java or JavaScript to build everything from websites to mobile apps and enterprise solutions. This skill combines technical know-how with creative problem-solving. Software powers every sector. Top developers and engineers regularly earn six figures. You can learn through freeCodeCamp or Codecademy, build simple projects and contribute to open-source projects. 7. Cybersecurity Cybersecurity involves protecting computer systems, networks and sensitive information from digital threats such as hacking, malware and data breaches. Professionals in this field develop strategies, implement safeguards and monitor activity to prevent and respond to security incidents. As technology advances, cybersecurity experts play a vital role in safeguarding organizations and individuals. Rising cyber threats mean that security professionals are in high demand and command premium pay. You can explore free courses from Cybrary, take CompTIA Security+ certification and practice on cybersecurity challenge sites like HackTheBox and TryHackMe for hands-on experience. Network with cybersecurity professionals on LinkedIn and stay updated on the latest security trends and technologies. Ready to Develop Your High-Income Skills? These seven high-income skills represent proven pathways to $100k paying jobs across multiple industries. The key to success lies in selecting skills that align with your interests and strengths and then committing to ongoing learning and practical application. Whether you focus on technical abilities, like software development and cybersecurity, or human-centered skills, like leadership and sales, the investment in developing these capabilities will pay dividends throughout your career. Start with one skill that resonates most with you, build a foundation through structured learning and gradually expand your expertise to become indispensable in the job market.
Forbes
13-06-2025
- Business
- Forbes
How New Graduates Can Compete In Today's Tough Job Market
How New Graduates Can Compete In Today's Tough Job Market Entering the job market as a recent graduate is an exciting milestone, but it can also be overwhelming. With millions of similarly qualified candidates competing for a limited number of roles, a degree alone no longer guarantees a job offer. In 2023, data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) showed over two million bachelor's degrees were awarded in the United States. This influx of graduates has significantly intensified competition at the entry level, prompting employers to consider factors beyond academic qualifications when making hiring decisions. Skills-based hiring is now taking center stage, with almost two-thirds of employers reporting that they use skills-based hiring, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers' Job Outlook 2025. Employers are gradually shifting towards candidates who demonstrate transferable competencies, such as adaptability, teamwork, and creativity. They determine how quickly individuals can integrate into fast-paced environments and operate effectively without relying on textbook theories. For years, recent graduates typically experienced lower unemployment rates than the general population, but now they face higher joblessness than the broader workforce. Between April 2022 and March 2025, unemployment for recent college graduates aged 22 to 27 jumped from 3.9% to 5.8%, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. During the same period, overall unemployment for all workers rose more modestly, from 3.7% to 4%. This trend is a result of two significant factors. First, artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly more present in entry-level jobs that were once stepping stones for new graduates. Automated tools are increasingly handling tasks in marketing, customer service, data entry, and journalism, significantly narrowing the range of accessible opportunities available directly out of college. Second, recent trade policies and supply chain disruptions have strained employer budgets, particularly in the manufacturing and technology sectors, which rely heavily on global operations. Rising input costs and tighter profit margins have prompted many companies to reduce hiring, especially for entry-level positions that require training and development. With millions of graduates competing for entry-level positions, employers have become increasingly selective about their hiring decisions. While academic credentials remain important, hiring managers are prioritizing a different set of competencies when evaluating candidates. A recent survey from found that 97% of employers consider soft skills equally or more important than technical abilities. More significantly, 89% of hiring failures stem from a poor attitude or a lack of interpersonal skills, rather than technical gaps. Recent graduates who master these skills early position themselves as standout candidates in a market where everyone appears qualified on paper. Clear written and verbal communication is among the most valued workplace skills. Employers want candidates who can speak confidently, listen actively, and collaborate effectively. Poor communication usually leads to confusion, costly errors, and team breakdowns. Employers seek graduates who can analyze situations, evaluate options, and make sound decisions with limited information. They value individuals who not only follow instructions but also identify challenges and propose practical solutions. Beyond basic computer skills, mastering AI tools now can hold the same importance as proficiency in Microsoft Office. These platforms enhance productivity and creativity. Strong command of collaboration tools like Zoom and Slack is also essential in today's remote work environment. The ability to understand, interpret, and communicate data has become increasingly valuable. Employers rely on data-driven insights for decision-making, performance assessment, customer experience, and trend forecasting. Data literacy means reading charts, evaluating statistics, and extracting actionable insights that support strategic thinking. The ability to speak confidently and persuasively remains a standout skill. Whether pitching ideas, leading meetings, or presenting to executives or stakeholders, strong public speaking abilities elevate your professional presence and demonstrate leadership potential. Employers highly value candidates who embrace change and actively seek growth opportunities. Adaptability means quickly learning new skills and adjusting your approach when circumstances change. This flexibility demonstrates to employers that you're ready to evolve alongside the organization. Starting your career can feel overwhelming, especially in a crowded job market. However, by taking deliberate, practical steps early on, you can differentiate yourself and increase your chances of success. These strategies not only prepare you for your first job but also lay a strong foundation for long-term career growth. Completing your bachelor's degree remains a crucial step toward enhancing your earning potential and qualifying for more advanced roles, and it sets you apart in a competitive job market. Beyond your degree, consider pursuing certifications in areas such as project management or data analytics to demonstrate your expertise further. Additionally, attending a lecture series, reading industry journals, and participating in discussions can deepen your expertise; however, ensure that these efforts align with your career goals to maximize their impact. Instead of sending out as many applications as possible, focus on a thoughtful, well-planned approach. Having a clear strategy helps you stay organized and focused. Set a realistic timeline for your job search, such as a 60-day plan. Establish a daily routine by dedicating specific hours to your search. Concentrate on industries where your skills are most in demand and tailor each resume and cover letter to fit the job. Go a step further and reach out to potential future co-workers to learn more about the companies you're thinking about applying to, so you can discover more about the culture, the hiring process, and potentially secure an employee referral. Networking remains king in securing interviews in challenging job markets. If you're aiming for your first professional job, gaining relevant experience is key to standing out. Seek internships, even unpaid ones, as they offer valuable skills that employers highly value. Entry-level roles and internships in your target industry help build transferable skills that will benefit your future career. Additionally, volunteering provides practical experience and can give you an edge over other candidates. It's especially helpful for recent graduates or those looking to expand their skill set or switch career paths. In today's digitalized era, employers will likely look you up online before offering an interview. Build a strong professional profile on LinkedIn by including a clear headshot, work history, certifications, skills, volunteer experience, and education. Keep it active by sharing industry updates, achievements, or completed projects. Alongside this, continue to build your network by reaching out to professionals who are a few years ahead of you in your desired field and working at companies that interest you. Expanding your network early can lead to long-term success. Finally, tailor your resume for each job application. Highlight the most relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description, and eliminate any unrelated details. A well-curated resume and online presence show that you're intentional, professional, and ready for the workplace. Keep an eye on emerging trends in your chosen field and assess whether your skills align with current market demands. Staying updated ensures you remain competitive and aware of what employers are looking for. Key skills to regularly refine include leadership, emotional intelligence, and effective communication, as these remain valuable across industries. Career success doesn't start with your first job; it starts with how you prepare for it. Develop a professional mindset early. Think beyond being a student and start acting like a future contributor. Don't wait to build key skills like communication, leadership, and adaptability. Join professional groups, attend industry events, or take a course to demonstrate your readiness before you're needed. In a dynamic job market like the current one, fresh graduates can't afford to wait for opportunities; they have to prepare early. Building a professional mindset, honing your brand, and developing essential skills will set you apart before you even apply. Early preparation isn't just about having an advantage; it's the foundation for launching a successful and sustainable career.
New Indian Express
10-06-2025
- Business
- New Indian Express
Why economics graduates struggle to secure high-paying jobs
The current trends in the corporate world at the advent of the AI revolution suggest that it has become highly volatile and unpredictable and is poised to evolve further. Established organisations as well as startups are leveraging data analytics services and AI and ML for automation. In such times, economics graduates, once highly in demand for their quantitative prowess, find it difficult to adapt to the changing patterns of employment in corporate jobs, which have become very competitive and require skills like data analytics, understanding of the ML algorithms, Power BI, SQL and Python. Though the skills can be learnt easily, unfortunately they are not incorporated in the economics curricula at the university level. Economics departments are hesitant to incorporate these skill based courses over the traditional courses which constitute the core of the curricula. It is because of this that students find themselves in a situation where they have to learn these skills in an unsystematic manner from random online platforms. The internet is flooded with courses on data analytics and data science, power BI, and Python, which don't serve the purpose as the majority of such content is pre-recorded and doesn't allow interaction with the instructors. This resistance shown at university departments to change their curricula and incorporate skill based courses has lowered the employability of economics graduates in the corporate world. In the age of AI revolution where companies are automating basic operations, the graduates would have to acquire advanced skills to stay industry relevant and employable. Global skill mismatch between economics graduates and what industry wants Corporates, especially in the area of consulting, marketing research, and finance, are seeking graduates with a proficiency in coding (R, Python, SQL and Power BI) for financial modelling, data visualization and skills to convert data into interactive dashboards. The traditional economics programs unevenly emphasize on the theoretical aspect of economics with minimal exposure to software and simulation, and nearly zero exposure to real time data handling techniques. As highlighted by the Institute for Competitiveness, in India, only 8.25% of economics graduates are able to secure jobs which are aligned with their studies. Similar trends are reported in other parts of the world, where employers' reveal that economics graduates lack hands-on experience with real time data handling and problem solving. A report by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE, 2023) from the United States highlights that only 42% of economics graduates were able to get jobs in their relevant fields within the first six months of their graduation. Similarly, the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), United Kingdom, reported that economics graduates earn 20% less than their computer science and engineering counterparts.
