ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book. The book focuses on the political reasons for positioning higher education as the cure for inequality and poverty. It argues that the biggest problem that we face as a nation is that we believe in a series of myths that prevent us from using current resources in a more effective manner. Politicians and school officials often argue that higher education is the central solution to many of our social and economic problems. By examining a set of related myths concerning degrees, jobs, and inequality, the book shows how politicians often misrepresent the economic effects of higher education. The chapter also shows how one of the greatest American efforts to create a more equal society was led by a man who thought that education could solve all social problems.
