Another assignment for class is to respond to the question: What does “The American Dream” mean to you?
“The American Dream” is a set of values and ideas embedded within the meaning and symbolism of the United States. These ideas are stated in the US Declaration of Independence, which states that “all men are created equal” and that all men “are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights,” including “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” The values of the US include freedom, which also includes opportunities for prosperity and success — the concept that anyone (according to their ability) can achieve upward social and economic mobility through education and hard work, regardless of the circumstances of their birth or their original social class.
I think my family actually embodied “The American Dream,” because even though my parents were divorced, my mother (who was very smart and achieved a college education) worked hard and achieved upward social and economic mobility.
However, the meaning behind “The American Dream” might lead to the conclusion that anyone who does not achieve prosperity is to blame for their own lack of success. It success is possible for everyone and one does not “make it,” then it must be that person’s own fault. I find this conclusion insupportable.
Furthermore, “The American Dream” might lead to the conclusion that anyone who does achieve prosperity is completely responsible for their own success. If success is achieved, it must be that person’s own hard work. I find this conclusion also insupportable. I believe that any successful individual has had many people who either paved the way ahead of them or supported them along the way.
For many people, “The American Dream” is impossible to achieve because of circumstances, ability or disability, or lack of support. For others, circumstances, ability or disability, and various types of supports make all the difference in their life successes.