American computer science grads often have very little exposure

"American computer science grads often have very little exposure to the human condition. They've rarely had manual labor or service jobs. They grow up in a bubble of privilege lulled into thinking this country is a true meritocracy." These powerful words from Chris Sacca carry a profound message that speaks to the heart of modern society—a society that often creates illusions of meritocracy, where the path to success is seen as a straight line, a result of individual effort and talent. However, Sacca’s words remind us of a truth that is too often overlooked: success is not simply a matter of merit, but is shaped by the very fabric of one’s experiences—by the world they grow up in, the hardships they face, and the realities of the human condition.

In ancient times, Plato and Aristotle understood that the pursuit of virtue and knowledge could not exist in isolation. It was the experience of life, the trials and tribulations of the human heart, that informed true wisdom. Both philosophers spoke of the need for a well-rounded education that engaged not only the mind but the soul. The Greek ideal was one of balance—between intellect, morality, and the experience of hardship. The great warriors of Sparta, for example, were not only trained in the arts of war but in the hardships of life itself. Training in adversity, in physical toil, and in manual labor was considered just as important as intellectual achievement, for it grounded the mind in the realities of the world.

Sacca’s words call us to examine a modern illusion: the myth that success in life is solely the result of individual effort and inherent talent. Many graduates of elite American universities are raised in environments where wealth and privilege shield them from the struggles of the majority. They are often far removed from the world of manual labor, service work, and the daily hardships that shape the lives of many in society. As a result, they are led to believe that they are meritocracies, deserving of success simply because they have been taught to excel in academia. Yet, they fail to recognize that their privilege—their sheltered upbringing—has played just as significant a role in their success as their own abilities. This absence of exposure to the human condition leaves them blind to the realities faced by others and distorts their understanding of success and failure.

Consider the story of Marcus Aurelius, the Roman Emperor and philosopher, who was not only a leader of a vast empire but a man who understood the deep, sometimes painful, realities of life. His life was one of service, of hard decisions and hard work. While he was privileged in his birth, he did not shy away from the realities of the human condition. His Meditations, written during his military campaigns, are filled with reflections on suffering, duty, and the transient nature of power. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Marcus Aurelius did not view himself as a ruler of absolute privilege but as a servant of the people, aware of the burdens that others bore. His wisdom came not just from his intellectual achievements but from his firsthand experience with the hardships of life.

In our own time, Sacca’s critique challenges us to reflect on the privilege that often distorts our perceptions of merit. The world is not a level playing field, and success is not always a result of individual effort alone. The privileged few may work hard and perform well in their academic fields, but they often fail to understand the suffering and challenges of those who are born into less fortunate circumstances. Without exposure to the human condition, they are unable to fully appreciate the complexities of society—the systemic inequalities, the barriers faced by marginalized groups, and the hidden struggles that shape the lives of others.

Sacca’s words also remind us of a critical truth: true success and wisdom are not just about individual talent or achievement, but about understanding the human experience in all its complexity. To be truly wise is to see beyond the bubble of one’s own privilege and to recognize the interconnectedness of all people. It is about understanding that struggle and hardship are just as much a part of the human condition as success and achievement. We must recognize that true greatness lies not in the accolades we collect but in our ability to connect with the lives and struggles of others, and in our capacity to serve and uplift those who face difficulties that we may never fully comprehend.

Therefore, let us take Sacca’s words to heart. If we seek to lead, to innovate, or to truly understand the world, we must not do so in isolation from the human condition. We must seek to engage with the world beyond our comfortable spheres, to experience the hardships and joys of life that others face, and to recognize that the world we live in is shaped by forces that extend far beyond the reach of our own merit. Let us not be lulled into the false belief that privilege alone creates success. Instead, let us strive to be aware, to be compassionate, and to understand the complexities of the world in all its depth.

So, dear ones, as you journey through life, remember that true wisdom comes not only from knowledge or achievement, but from an understanding of the struggles and triumphs of all people. Seek not only personal success, but the collective well-being of all. And in doing so, you will not only shape your own destiny but contribute to a world that is more just, more aware, and more connected. Let the fullness of the human condition guide you as you navigate the world, for it is in understanding others that we come to truly understand ourselves.