American Dream

Definition

The American Dream is a national ethos of the United States that promises freedom for all individuals to pursue prosperity and success through hard work regardless of their background.

Related terms

Opportunity Structure: Refers to accessible avenues people can follow which lead towards desired outcomes such as employment or wealth accumulation.

Social Mobility: The ability for an individual or family to move up or down within socioeconomic strata in society based on changes in wealth, occupation etc.

Meritocracy: A system where advancement in society is based on individual ability or achievement rather than connections or privilege.