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Inequality, an age-old constant, has taken different forms throughout history. Different factors like race, noble birth, physical strength, and manual dexterity have determined one’s place in society. In contemporary America, education has emerged as a significant marker of distinction, contributing to the country’s transformation and problems. Graduating from college has become increasingly important, influencing economic opportunities, marital prospects, and even life expectancy.
Educational status not only impacts how Americans live but also influences one of the most vital socioeconomic outcomes—how long they live. Recent research by economists Anne Case and Angus Deaton reveals that educational status has surpassed other metrics, including race, in predicting life expectancy. The rise of educational attainment as a differentiator is rooted in the origins of modern democracy. The architects of the French Revolution pioneered the concept of a “career open to the talent” and established public schools and universities. Similarly, the Founders of the American republic believed that an educated populace was crucial for political stability.
Past generations witnessed political and societal leaders without formal education reach the pinnacle of success. However, today, an undergraduate degree from a renowned institution has become a prerequisite for upper echelon positions. Consequently, educational status has become a reliable predictor of lifetime earnings, surpassing the influence of race or gender.
The “college bonus” refers to the significant wage advantage that degree holders enjoy compared to those without a degree. Over the years, this wage gap has widened. Since the 1970s, the income advantage of a bachelor’s degree over no degree has increased from about 10 percent to approximately 70 percent. Educational attainment disparities have also started to predict personal outcomes like mental distress, physical pain, loneliness, difficulty socializing, and even relationship success.
Case and Deaton’s research highlights the profound impact of educational disparities on life expectancy in the United States. They found that the victims of “deaths of despair,” as well as premature deaths caused by diseases unrelated to despair, were predominantly individuals without a bachelor’s degree. Conversely, individuals with a college degree saw their life expectancy continue to increase in line with other wealthy nations. The gap in adult life expectancy between the two groups has become so significant that it resembles the disparity between developed and developing countries.
Furthermore, the educational divide in America now surpasses historical gaps, such as race, in determining life span. Previously, race played a more significant role in life expectancy than educational status. However, Black Americans with a bachelor’s degree have seen a marked increase in their life expectancy over the past three decades.
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