Group 1 - The rising costs of essential living items such as housing, transportation, and healthcare are making it increasingly difficult for many to achieve "economic comfort" [1] - The concept of "middle class" is often evaluated based on net worth rather than income, as assets and liabilities have a more significant impact on long-term financial security [1] - The median net worth data from the Federal Reserve indicates varying net worth levels by age, with significant differences observed across different age groups [2] Group 2 - The benchmarks for determining middle-class status are not definitive and serve merely as a measure of one's current position, emphasizing the diversity of lifestyles and financial independence paths [3] - Perceptions of net worth can vary significantly within wealth tiers, influenced by factors such as debt levels and the liquidity of assets [4] - Accumulating wealth takes time, and the implications of low net worth at a young age are less critical compared to the potential consequences of low net worth in later years [5]

Group 1 - The concept of "middle class" is increasingly ambiguous, yet there exists a distinct lifestyle and consumption perspective associated with it, characterized by a pursuit of taste and distinction from the lower classes [1][9] - Recent events, such as the controversies surrounding Sam's Club and the brand Holiou, reflect the middle class's desire for quality and premium products, rather than mere status [2][5] - The middle class's pursuit of material and fashionable distinctions is becoming more challenging as economic conditions evolve, leading to a clearer understanding of their true essence in society [1][19] Group 2 - The perception of quality in products, such as those sold at Sam's Club, is often tied to a belief in superior safety and standards, which may not hold true universally [6][7] - The historical context of consumer preferences, such as the association of coffee with sophistication, illustrates the complex cultural narratives that shape middle-class consumption [8][9] - The middle class's reliance on consumerism for identity and status is increasingly questioned, as the stability of this lifestyle is threatened by broader economic and social changes [15][19] Group 3 - The current middle-class experience is marked by a tension between maintaining a modern lifestyle and addressing existential concerns, leading to a critical juncture in their values [20][24] - The call to defend modern life necessitates a reevaluation of what constitutes modernity and the underlying material conditions that support it [21][22] - A shift away from a purely consumerist mindset towards a more community-oriented perspective is essential for the middle class to navigate the challenges of contemporary society [23][24]

Core Viewpoint - The article argues that the concept of the middle class is a constructed ideology rather than a stable, objective reality, leading to a sense of instability and anxiety among individuals who identify with this class [3][4][5]. Group 1: Nature of the Middle Class - The middle class is portrayed as a myth that promises upward mobility through personal effort, while obscuring the underlying class struggles [4]. - The identity of the middle class is based on individual narratives rather than solid power structures or real production [4][5]. - The financialization of assets, such as housing, creates a situation where individuals do not own property but rather long-term debt contracts, leading to instability [5]. Group 2: Systemic Risks and Individual Responses - Individuals face systemic risks that are often beyond their control, leading to a phenomenon termed "breaking defense" as a response to these pressures [7][15]. - The media and algorithms play a role in amplifying individual anxieties by simplifying complex social issues into emotionally charged narratives [9]. - The article highlights a growing trend of individuals rejecting the label of "middle class," recognizing the instability of this identity [12][13]. Group 3: The Role of Narratives - The narrative of "breaking defense" fills a void left by the failure of the traditional success story, resonating with many who feel disconnected from their efforts and rewards [8]. - The article discusses how social media platforms contribute to a cycle of anxiety and consumption, creating a commercial loop of anxiety and solutions [9][10]. Group 4: Potential Solutions - The article suggests a shift from a vertical narrative of competition to a horizontal narrative focused on connection and creation, emphasizing the importance of community and personal skills [18]. - It advocates for redefining assets to focus on personal skills and relationships rather than market-dependent valuations [19][20]. - The call to action includes building genuine relationships and self-identity based on intrinsic values rather than consumer symbols [19][20].

Group 1 - The article discusses the concept of the "middle class" and its perceived fragility, suggesting that the notion of a stable middle class may be a constructed ideology rather than a concrete reality [2][3][15] - It highlights the paradox of the middle class identity, which relies on personal investments in assets like housing and education, while these investments are subject to larger systemic risks beyond individual control [12][15] - The term "breaking defense" is introduced as a response to the systemic risks faced by individuals, reflecting their anxiety and discontent in the current socio-economic environment [16][37] Group 2 - The article identifies a narrative vacuum created by the failure of traditional success stories, leading to the emergence of the "middle class breaking defense" narrative as a new, relatable story for many [19][20] - Media and algorithms are described as "anxiety merchants," simplifying complex social issues into emotional narratives that resonate with audiences, particularly on platforms like Xiaohongshu [21][22] - The article notes a growing trend of individuals rejecting the label of "middle class," recognizing the instability of this identity and the pressures it entails [27][29][31] Group 3 - It emphasizes the need for a shift from a "vertical" narrative focused on competition and status to a "horizontal" narrative centered on connection and creation, encouraging individuals to redefine their assets, relationships, and self-identity [42][43][45] - The article suggests that meaningful actions, such as building genuine relationships and developing personal skills, can serve as a form of resistance against the prevailing socio-economic system [46][47]