I agree with you that nepotism can indeed be frustrating, but I am more concerned about the extent to which parents are obsessed with (and often "pushing") their children's objective success - a goal measured more often these days by prestige and by material wealth.

Is it really necessary that in all cases children become more wealthy or famous than their parents? It wouldn't make sense because then the entire society would tend toward one of doctors and lawyers with no one available to do anything else (i.e. it would fall apart). Is it healthy for children to be pushed so much?

What I would rather see would be more parents helping their children develop the kind of skills and attitude needed to be diligent, compassionate, and curious, to get along well with others, to be eager to learn new things and revisit or challenge old ideas, to be happy with their life - regardless of material wealth or prestige.

I think perhaps a lot of parents see their children's success as either a do-over of their own life, or a reflection of their parenting skills - their ego is at stake. But that's not a good attitude to have, as it does not really help the child any. No matter how rich they become, they'll always be of the mindset that "if [they] only had more money, [they'd] be happier." But that elusive happiness never materializes.

So while I agree that everyone should have the same opportunity, regardless of whom they know, I think the aggressiveness with which parents seem to exploit that opportunity is detrimental to the subjective well-being of their children.

I found it in poor taste that Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher took it upon themselves to make a video full of celebrities stating how they will help the United States now that Barack Obama is in power. What is disguised as "we're all in this together", I believe, depicts another self idulgent display of celebrities patting celebrities on the back. Where was this grassroots effort before? I don't doubt that Obama inspires but it's a bit offensive that Demi Moore actually believes Ashley Simpson vowing to be a good mother will somehow bring us all together. Like this article mentioned, now is not the time for the elite to shine. Sure they are a part of the country as well, but perhaps they should step back for just a moment and let the everyday mothers make vows about thier children and thier future. Let the everyday inspire. It's not like Hollywood will have to wait more than a month before the next pat on the back award ceremony is held celebrating the elite yet again. Actors throw around words like "genious" and "awe inspiring" as if Christ himself is cheering on the SAG awards. Yes movies can inspire, but whats inspiring about now, is reality, and lets face it stars don't live in reality so they should gracefully step down in this moment. It wasn't some celebrities', "Rock the vote" T-shirt that got Obama elected, it was the hopes and dreams of everyday folks who could care less that Demi Moore pledges to give more.