My American Dream

The American Dream is an everlasting concept that has survived centuries despite the changes to our society. This idea stays alive due to the comfort and hope it provides citizens. I find it interesting how Americans stay optimistic and strive for what seems like an unreachable dream even when faced with the most difficult of times. As I read the introduction to The Making and Persistence of the American Dream  by Sandra Hanson and John Kenneth White, I was intrigued when the authors referenced a comment from sociologist, Barry Glassner. Glassner empahsizes citizens' standing hope that they will some day reach their American Dream: "You want to hold onto your dream when times are hard. For the vast majority of Americans at every point in history, the prospect of achieving the American Dream has been slim, but the promise has been huge" (6).  Many Americans believe that holding onto the American Dream will provide them with a hopeful future. As Glassner points out, no

Dream Away  The American Dream differs from person to person. One's background or upbringing can influence his or her perspective on what the ideal American Dream is. In his article,  "American Dreams" , journalist, Ian Brown, asks several Americans to describe his or her American Dream. Perspectives given by a wide variety of people offer a range of hopes and dreams for a certain lifestyle. For many, when the American Dream comes to mind, they associate it with wealth and fame. However, Brown emphasizes the individuality between people and their own understandings of what the American Dream is. This idea is unique to everyone, but concepts such as equality and peace are prevalent in peoples' responces. Similar to others, I hope for equality and peace, but also the opportunity to travel.  I t is often difficult to summarize your personal vision of the American Dream, but I have crafted my own and I hope I can fulfill it one day.  My understanding of the Ame