'90% of life is luck...': CEO's take on merit, inequality triggers debate on privilege
A recent LinkedIn post by Rohan Verma, CEO and co-founder of Breathe Well-being, has reignited discussions on privilege, luck, and social mobility. The debate gained further traction when German politician Friedrich Merz acknowledged his own 'Western privilege'—or Wessi-Privileg—by stating that his success was partly due to the chance of being born and raised in West Germany rather than personal merit alone.
Verma’s post argued that luck plays a dominant role in life outcomes, estimating that 'probably 90% of life is luck'. He pointed out that family wealth and educational pedigree often determine opportunities across generations. For example, children of Ivy League, IIT, or IIM graduates are far more likely to attend elite colleges, while those from billionaire families almost always secure places at top global universities and leadership positions. Meanwhile, nearly all low-paid and manual labourers come from poor backgrounds, regardless of their intelligence or work ethic.
One user emphasised the importance of first-generation achievers in breaking cycles of disadvantage. Another noted that social mobility often depends on the first person in a family gaining access to top institutions, which can then open doors for future generations. A third response called for greater government investment in quality education, nutrition, healthcare, and scholarships to level the playing field.
The discussion also touched on technology’s potential to reduce inequality. One commenter suggested that open and accessible AI tools could democratise learning and healthcare, offering more people a chance to succeed. Verma’s post attracted widespread engagement, with professionals and students sharing personal stories that echoed his views on systemic privilege and the limited role of individual effort in overcoming it.
The debate highlights how deeply luck and inherited advantages shape life trajectories. While some advocate for policy changes to improve equity, others see technology as a possible equaliser. The conversation reflects broader concerns about fairness in education, employment, and social mobility.
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