The motivation for foot soldiers to work, especially in the context of gangs or similar hierarchical organizations, is often driven by the aspiration to climb the ranks and achieve wealth and power. Despite the risks and low initial earnings, these individuals are willing to endure hardships in the hope of one day becoming rich and powerful. This is often referred to as a "winner-take-all" labor market, where the rewards are disproportionately concentrated at the top. The potential for upward mobility, however limited, serves as a powerful motivator.

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The author examines the history of the crack epidemic in the United States using the example of one gang, the Black Gangster Disciple Nation, explaining its hierarchy and how profits are distributed. Contrary to popular belief, not everyone gets rich from selling drugs. Rather, the gangs are a lot like corporations such as McDonald's, with a strict hierarchy and close control of the distribution of profits. The top boss, a dealer named J.T., made over $100,000 a year. His 'employees,' the foot soldiers who risked their lives selling on the streets, made very little. However, the foot soldiers were willing to take this risk in the hope that they, too, might one day become rich and powerful. Levitt calls this a "winner-take-all" labor market.

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Freakonomics

Author Steven Levitt, working with journalist Stephen Dubner, shows how economic theories can be used to analyze social issues. Each of the six essays...

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