Fulfilling the Promise of the American Dream Essay

The promises of the â€Å"American dream† are no longer fulfilled. One does not simply work diligently and expect to achieve success. A number of factors must be taken into consideration: natural talent, class, and most importantly, the ability to assimilate. The American economy today does not allow every citizen to be satisfied with his position. There is a clear distinction between the classes in America. The pursuit of happiness is limited to those who adapt and conform, as well as requiring a set of skills in order to remain competitive in the job market. In â€Å"Class in America: Myths and Realities,† Gregory Mantsios describes the myths and their corresponding realities in America. A myth that was given claims that any American, given the†¦show more content†¦Buchanan provides examples and historical contexts which show the gradual separation and classification of Americans by religion, ethnicity, gender, and political affiliation. America was founded o n the values of â€Å"diversity, equality, and democracy.† Buchanan argues that America today is known for its diversity rather than its unity. Treating Americans differently based on race has become a norm and raises questions every day. â€Å"Hardly a month passes without some controversy or crime rooted in race being forced through cable TV and talk radio onto the national agenda† (601). The fact that the average earnings for Americans is often classified by race, in addition to showing large disparity between incomes, shows that America is far from colorblind. All three selections have made the point, through historical examples or personal experience, that success and failure directly correlates to ones status and background. There is unquestionable variation with race and class being the most prominent factors. An individual that adapts to his respective American expectations can achieve his goals. Gregory Mantsios and Patrick Buchanan discuss the issues that s urround class and race while Stephen Cruz describes a personal ordeal that opens his eyes to the reality of the glass ceiling caused by his background. Mantsios and Buchanan naturally have analytical and statistical information to as support. Buchanan stresses the unity ofShow MoreRelatedExamples Of Fulfilling The American Dream In The Great Gatsby1071 Words   |  5 PagesFulfilling The American Dream What is the American Dream? The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald was published in 1925. The novel takes place in New York, during the roaring ‘20’s of the 1900’s. The novel is about a young man named Gatsby who tries to gain back love from a woman named Daisy Buchanan. The American Dream is a reoccurring symbol throughout this book. The characters in the novel all had their very own ways of interpreting the American Dream. 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