How would Ruth fit into the "real" world?

I think that Ruth would fare better than others. Despite her selfishness and pathological lying, Ruth has excellent social intelligence, and often perceives realities that others miss. For example, she is the first to notice that Madame is afraid of the students, and she correctly deduces Kathy’s feelings for Tommy when they live together at the Cottages. Ruth goes out with Tommy, but eventually feels badly about keeping him away from Kathy. Late in life, she tries to make amends.I don't know if she would "succeed" in the world but she has the social intelligence to help her.