Michèle Lamont

Lamont will work on a book that explores how Americans conceive of their self-worth in the context of growing economic inequality. Drawing from interviews with individuals from across the class spectrum, she will explore whether Americans increasingly understand their own “worthiness” through their socioeconomic success, self-reliance, and competitiveness, and analyze implications for the hardening of class and ethno-racial boundaries. She will propose ways to foster greater social inclusion by promoting more hopeful narratives and meaningful engagement of stigmatized groups.