The problem of recognition is more acute for people who may not have exceptional talents or gifts, but nevertheless make valuable contributions to our world.

For example, schoolteachers were once individually known to virtually everybody in their communities, and thought of in terms of the civilizing effects they brought—not just as people of lowly status based on their inability to purchase high-end consumer goods.

Likewise, cops and firemen were seen as valued protectors well before the events of 9/11, and have only somewhat begun to reclaim their earlier sense of recognition.

How about independent businessmen?

It wasn’t all that long ago that if you were, say, the proprietor of a local hardware store, you had a definite position in the community.  Everybody knew you and the need you fulfilled.  Today, if you’re known at all, you’ll be considered just a small-time local alternative to Home Depot, and lucky to be able to eke out a living at all.

The vast majority of us are only hired help--employees--whose activities or contributions to the community are completely unknown to our fellows.