Part of the problem is the imaginary heiearchy we have placed on occupations, with a medical doctor somewhere at the top and a common laborer at the bottom. Self-esteem for those on the "lower" levels suffered. Enter self-esteem building courses. We made kids feel better by giving them fake success through dumbed-down courses and we tell them "of course you can go to college." I agree with. you, Tessa. I tell people that nothing builds self-esteem like competence. Medals for participation don't do that.