Middle-class values are actively encouraged/exploited by the ownership-class.

"If you just work hard you'll be successful" is one of those middle-class values. The upper-class equivalent is "collect rent on something."

While I agree, people who work hard do see the fruits of their labor, albeit not much. I went to visit my home country after 20 years and my family there has not advanced economically in 2 decades. They are some of the hardest workers I know and barely scrape by. I realized then that getting out what you put in is something not all countries have.

Growing up poor, and watching my dad work as a grade school janitor, I'm quick to tell people my dad worked for a living, but I don't - I just play with computers all day.

I also grew up poor, with my dad in construction and my mom a waitress. I push buttons and solve all sorts of interesting puzzles for a living.

Rather than racing the 100+ temperatures on a roof, I mosey to work before whatever scheduled meetings. Rather than permanently damaging my wrists from carrying trays overhead, I sometimes get a bit uncomfortable so adjust the height of my ergonomic desk and chair, maybe take a walk for a bit.

I value how easy I have it and put in extra effort to make sure it all persists.