The Credential Society (by Randall Collins)

"The Credential Society," by Randall Collins, explores how educational credentials have become crucial for achieving social status and economic success. Collins argues that instead of just reflecting knowledge or skills, credentials often serve as a barrier to entry in various fields, creating an economic divide. This system emphasizes competition for degrees and qualifications, often overshadowing actual abilities. Ultimately, Collins suggests that society increasingly values these credentials over genuine expertise, leading to a landscape where access to opportunities is disproportionately influenced by one's educational background rather than individual merit.