Final answer:
The aspect of modern American society being mocked is the lenient treatment of the rich and powerful in the justice system, reflecting a broader theme of social class and crime. It indicates a system where wealth equates to influence, allowing the affluent to avoid serious legal retribution, which perpetuates social inequalities and hinders true social mobility.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question addresses the aspect of the justice system in modern American society that seems to provide more leniency to the rich and powerful, allowing them to often escape the consequences of their actions. This phenomenon can be linked to notions of social class and crime, where the wealthy, due to their international power and influence, have the means to manipulate the system to their benefit. Such inequities have historical roots, as seen during Prohibition, where the wealthy could circumvent laws more easily than the poor. Contemporary examples include figures like NFL players or financiers who, despite being accused or convicted of crimes, receive lighter sentences compared to the gravity of their actions, showcasing an imbalance in the administration of justice.
The societal implications of this leniency towards the affluent are vast, not only in terms of criminal justice but also influence on a broader scale. This impact extends to various dimensions of society, such as education, where there is a fear that only the wealthy will have access to the tools needed for success, further solidifying their power and control. While there are exceptions and stories of individuals overcoming barriers, it is evident that systemic issues persist, often hindering social mobility and reinforcing the gap between the wealthy and others.
The subject being addressed involves the critique of economic liberty and social mobility, raising questions about the fairness of opportunities and whether the 'rules' of society benefit everyone equally or simply act to maintain the status quo of the affluent.