The american dream

Definition

The American Dream is the belief that anyone, regardless of background, can achieve success and prosperity through hard work and determination. This concept is deeply embedded in American culture and has evolved over time, often reflecting societal values and aspirations. It serves as both an ideal and a critique, especially when examining the realities faced by individuals in their pursuit of happiness and fulfillment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The American Dream has its roots in the Declaration of Independence, emphasizing life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
2. Critics argue that the American Dream is not equally accessible to all, highlighting issues like systemic inequality and economic barriers.
3. Hunter S. Thompson's work often critiques the idealized version of the American Dream by showcasing the darker side of American society.
4. Joan Didion reflects on the disillusionment surrounding the American Dream, particularly in her examinations of California's cultural landscape in the 1960s.
5. The American Dream has transformed over decades from a focus on homeownership and financial success to include broader definitions of personal fulfillment and happiness.

Review Questions

• How do Hunter S. Thompson's works challenge traditional views of the American Dream?
  • Hunter S. Thompson's writings often depict a chaotic and cynical view of America, questioning the very essence of the American Dream. Through his Gonzo journalism style, he illustrates how the pursuit of this dream can lead to disillusionment and moral decay. By presenting characters who struggle against societal expectations, Thompson critiques the notion that hard work alone guarantees success, highlighting the complexities and harsh realities many face in their quest for happiness.
• What role does disillusionment play in Joan Didion's portrayal of the American Dream?
  • Joan Didion's exploration of disillusionment is central to her portrayal of the American Dream, particularly in her analysis of California culture during the 1960s. She captures a sense of loss and uncertainty as individuals confront the gap between their aspirations and harsh realities. Didion’s narratives often reflect how societal upheavals and personal tragedies expose the fragility of dreams once thought attainable, revealing a critical view that challenges the idealistic notions surrounding success and fulfillment.
• Evaluate how both Hunter S. Thompson and Joan Didion use their writing to address the complexities of the American Dream and its implications for society.
  • Both Hunter S. Thompson and Joan Didion utilize their writing to delve into the complexities surrounding the American Dream, revealing its multifaceted nature and societal implications. Thompson's raw and immersive style highlights the chaos and absurdity present in America's pursuit of happiness, suggesting that this dream often leads to despair rather than fulfillment. In contrast, Didion’s reflective prose examines personal stories against a backdrop of societal change, exposing disillusionment while questioning whether true success is ever attainable. Together, their works paint a nuanced picture that challenges readers to reconsider what the American Dream really means in a contemporary context.

Related terms

Meritocracy: A social system in which success is based on individual ability or achievement rather than on social class or wealth.

Social Mobility: The ability of individuals or families to move up or down the social ladder in terms of wealth, education, and status.

Disillusionment: The feeling of disappointment that arises when reality does not meet expectations, often linked to the unfulfilled promises of the American Dream.