Renowned Australian writer Peter Carey, who is well-known for his deep and complex analyses of human nature and society, has frequently considered how various societies express social issues. He specifically noted how American society differs from other nations, such as the UK or Australia, in its relationship with class consciousness.

Carey observed that the concept of class is frequently buried beneath the surface in America, in contrast to these locations where social classes are more clearly defined and publicly discussed—occasionally even politicized. From above, the American social structure seems calm and uniform, but it's actually a vast ocean with various layers and currents that don't always mix.

This observation highlights a basic feature of American society, where equality and meritocracy are highly prized concepts that can obscure or minimize the existence of class differences. It implies that although economic inequality does exist and has a significant impact on people's lives in America, it may not be as openly politicized or widely accepted as it is in other countries.

Peter Carey's observation challenges readers to see past appearances and think about how social norms and cultural values influence how opportunity and inequality are perceived in various societies. His remarks serve as a reminder that comprehending societal dynamics necessitates looking deeper than the surface currents to the underlying currents.