I think it started early, in schools. Equity, and moving along disadvantaged students became more important than focusing on excellence in education. Students have been indoctrinated in "wokeness" and teachers must pass students, no matter what. If students are not turning in work and are disruptive, teachers are supposed to bend over backwards to give them high marks anyway. Accountability and discipline are not supportive my administration. Eventually, these students are released into society and become adult versions of the person who hasn't learned to think critically.