Dear Editor:
Re: Beware the Cries of the Shrinking Middle Class, Trevor Lautens’ Oct. 7 column.
I think the truth lies somewhere in the middle.
First, the period (1976 to 2011) spans two distinct periods: the late 20th century, where living standards still improved significantly; and the more recent time, where the stagnation or shrinking of the middle class is being alleged.
Second, comparing the price of a microwave in 1976 and 2011 is completely irrelevant. More appropriate would be to compare the 1976 microwave with a 2011 smartphone.
A realistic comparison is difficult to make. There is no clear definition of “middle class,” and there are no absolute measures for living standard. The sentiment that the middle class is shrinking is mostly a subjective one.
The middle class may not be shrinking, but the quality of life for an average white-collar worker is certainly not improving as it did in the second half of the last century.
Roger Fischer
North Vancouver
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