The Wire

[Uncle Shags]

Not everyone does get worn down. Many people flurish in large institutions. While I don't disagree it happens it certainly isn't a representation of reality.

Yeah, people flourish on the show in institutions too. But Simon shows how difficult it is and the sacrifices people often have to make to their own integrity and values to move up the ladder or get their job done. Like in real life there are success stories despite the many institutional hurdles. Daniels becomes commissioner, Carver becomes Lieutenant, Pearlman becomes a judge, Carcetti becomes mayor and governor, Bubbles gets clean, etc. But there are also people who get chewed up and spit out. And maybe worse, there are plenty of dirtbags who learn how to manipulate the system and build a career on it. Once again, multiple angles.