In the 1980s, what was Ken Auletta's assertion about the underclass's differences from the middle class?

Ken Auletta's assertion in the 1980s emphasized the socio-economic challenges faced by the underclass in contrast to the middle class. By suggesting that the underclass "tended to be more dangerous than the middle class," he pointed to a perception shaped by social dynamics, poverty, and crime rates often associated with communities struggling economically.

This perspective reflects a broader discourse on how poverty can lead to higher instances of crime, social dislocation, and instability, which might manifest in behaviors that society often labels as dangerous. Auletta's analysis highlighted the complexities of the underclass's socio-economic conditions and the stereotypes that arise as a result of these conditions, without making blanket statements about the individuals themselves.

The other options do not accurately capture Auletta's perspective or the realities surrounding the underclass. For instance, suggesting that the underclass was naturally more intelligent or uniformly had high educational qualifications does not align with the socio-economic realities they faced, which often included inadequate access to quality education. Additionally, claiming that they lived in wealthier neighborhoods runs counter to the very definition of 'underclass,' which is typically characterized by living in impoverished areas.