Exploring the Idea of The “American Dream” (A.K.A. Leo DiCaprio)
I would describe my American Dream as having meaning in life and being happy. In general though I
would describe most peoples' American Dream as having financial success, occupational success, having
a house, nice cars, a family, etc. People value monetary and material things more so than overall meaning/
happiness and nonmaterial things.
My definition of wealth is enough money to buy nice things (cars, houses, clothes, etc.) and do nice things
(vacations, traveling, other experiences, etc.). However, my definition of wealth is loose and very relative
to my life, because I think of wealthy people as people above my family in socioeconomic status.
American's strive to be wealthy and look down upon the poor. The poor in this country are not just looked
down upon though, they are almost entirely ignored. Class is a very taboo subject in the United States, I
think, and people don't talk about it that much and when they do it is in a very generalized manner. (For
example, I often hear of the 1% being referenced or the "poverty line" but not much else is talked about.)
I think there is too much income inequality in the United States and I think it's getting bigger and bigger
which is a problem. But my thoughts on wealth and poverty do not extend much beyond that because
I have never supported myself financially so I don't think my opinion on the matter can get any more
nuanced until I experience being an adult, in the financial sense of the word. All I know right now is that
"financial stability" as people like to say, is definitely something I want in life, but "wealth" I don't know.
Maddie, I totally agree that there is too much income inequality in the United States. I think that factor is at odds with the attainability of the American Dream, and that perhaps the American Dream is limited to a select demographic. What do you think that demographic is? I found it interesting that you mentioned you have a difficult time discussing poverty and wealth because you aren't yet financially independent. I find myself also encountering this problem. Many people claim that it is difficult for millennials to find jobs and support themselves, but I can't truthfully say that I've experienced that. Great post!!
ReplyDeleteHey girl, I totally agree with what you said 100% who are we to talk when we are not financially stable ourselves haha. I would also agree that the class gap is becoming bigger in the United States and rather than helping others we should help ourselves, the lower class really needs financial support. I agree that wealth is enough money to buy things that are needed and maybe a few things that include luxury. I love your definition of the American Dream very unique nice job!
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