A man of substance wouldn't work for that money

Except for a few countries, the middle class is struggling for its life across the world. 

Rents and especially education expenses are exacerbating the problem in countries like ours—which are “developing,” or in reality “undeveloped,” or perhaps “semi-developed,” or maybe even “countries with little intention of developing.” 

Even if healthcare services are free, you can only find an appointment for an eye exam 3-4 months in advance.

Education is also free, but the state of public schools is obvious.

It is no longer really possible for children attending public schools to make a vertical transition in their careers.

Middle-class families are being squeezed tighter and tighter.

Academics, who previously earned salaries well above those of a middle-class civil servant, have also had their share of these economic fluctuations.

An assistant and a professor earn almost the same salary.

Workers employed in the public sector earn the same salary as a senior professor.

Associate professors, on the other hand, earn even less.

It is possible to extend these comparisons, create mathematical algorithms, engage in agitation, and make the situation more visible by detailing the importance of academics to a country.

But to wrap up the topic with a short story, and not to make your Sunday even more boring with this tedious subject, let us share a brief anecdote from the late Demirel.

Seeing the restlessness of the academics, Demirel turned to his advisor and asked what these people in robes wanted.

His advisor told Demirel, “Sir, they are causing problems because their salaries are very low.”

When Demirel asked, “Well, how much salary do these professors get?” 

His advisor replied, “Around 60-70 thousand liras.”

The late Demirel then said, “A man of substance wouldn't work for this salary anyway; let everyone look out for themselves.” 

Happy Sundays.