But Teribus, the rich and privileged HAVE been handed stuff on a platter haven't they? I agree one has to work for one's success, but things are made much more difficult (and require far more input and determination) if one is starting from relative poverty and deprivation.

I am not 'typical' particularly. (In fact, I'd say I was quite unusual in several ways!) I'm not actually a Socialist, I vote Conservative. And I hope I don't 'whine'.

I wonder if you have ever met young people from very poor districts, with bad housing and with parent/s on an extremely low income or Benefits? Can you imagine being talented or gifted, with a high intelligence, trying to study in such an environment?
My father did so, and it was admirable. But he was exceptionally determined and ferociously strong-minded. Most youngsters would bow to the ethos of their home and district. They're not all Billy Elliots!