New Book Blames Yuppies for Trump, Housing—Basically Everything.

The article discusses a new book called "Triumph of the Yuppies" by Tom McGrath, which examines the rise of young urban professionals (yuppies) in the 1980s and their impact on American society. The book explores the materialistic nature of yuppie success and its connection to the changing economy. It also delves into the stories of well-known figures like Jerry Rubin and Jane Fonda, as well as lesser-known proto-yuppies. The author argues that the yuppies' pursuit of wealth led to the dissolution of post-war political orthodoxies and the rise of right-wing policies. The article suggests that the economic and social tensions of the yuppie era continue to be relevant today, with yuppies now in positions of power and their legacy contributing to contemporary issues such as income disparity and a disregard for workers and the environment. However, the book's focus on white, heterosexual yuppies is criticized for ignoring racial and ethnic diversity and the role of LGBTQ+ people in gentrification. Overall, the book provides insight into the negative consequences of the yuppie era and offers a roadmap for a more humane existence. [Extracted from the article]