Diane Kisner English 112 Topic: American Dream The Reality

Diane Kisnerenglish 112topic American Dreamthesisthe Reality Of The

Diane Kisner's essay explores the multifaceted nature of the American Dream, emphasizing that it extends beyond material wealth to encompass ideals such as opportunity, perseverance, equality, and personal fulfillment. The essay discusses the core belief that through hard work and determination, individuals can achieve success, citing real-life examples like Chris Gardner's story in "The Pursuit of Happyness." It also examines the societal and structural factors that influence one's ability to attain this dream, including race, economic background, and community support. The paper highlights that the American Dream varies among people, shaped by personal aspirations and societal circumstances, and underscores the importance of collective effort in realizing this shared aspiration.

Paper For Above instruction

The American Dream has long been a central element of the national identity of the United States, embodying the hope that through effort and perseverance, anyone can achieve success and prosperity. This concept, rooted in the ideals of freedom, equality, and opportunity, has evolved over time and manifests differently for each individual. While many associate the American Dream primarily with material wealth or homeownership, it encompasses broader themes such as personal growth, social mobility, and the pursuit of happiness.

At its core, the American Dream is the belief that hard work and determination can lead individuals to overcome obstacles, regardless of their social origins. This spirit of self-reliance is exemplified vividly in the life story of Chris Gardner, whose journey from homelessness to becoming a successful entrepreneur illustrates the power of resilience. Despite facing severe hardships—including losing his home, facing discrimination as a black man, and struggling to provide for his son—Gardner's unwavering commitment to his goals demonstrates how personal effort can triumph over adversity. His story underscores that the American Dream is accessible to those willing to work tirelessly and persevere against all odds.

However, the realization of this dream is complicated by societal structures and inequalities. Surveys indicate a divided perception among Americans regarding individual versus collective responsibility in achieving success. A study of 2,000 respondents reveals that while a significant portion believes personal effort is paramount, others emphasize the importance of community and government interventions to provide equal opportunities. For instance, approximately 42% of Americans see the American Dream as primarily achievable through personal endeavor, aligning with Gardner's narrative. Conversely, nearly 40% believe societal support is crucial to ensure all children have a fair chance at success, highlighting the debate over the role of societal structures in allowing everyone to achieve their dreams.

The disparities in economic mobility and wealth distribution also influence perceptions of the American Dream. Data from the Census Bureau shows stark inequalities, with white Americans holding substantially more wealth than Black Americans; yet, Gardner’s $60 million net worth challenges traditional notions that wealth disparities are insurmountable barriers. His success as an entrepreneur and motivational speaker exemplifies that, despite systemic obstacles, individual effort can lead to extraordinary accomplishments. Nonetheless, his case is exceptional and raises questions about the systemic barriers faced by many marginalized groups.

The notion that the American Dream is universally attainable remains contested, as definitions vary across social, racial, and economic lines. While the ideals traditionally associated with the American Dream include freedom, equality, and opportunity, achieving these ideals is often hindered by societal biases and structural inequalities. Gardner’s story exemplifies how resilience and hard work can sometimes transcend these barriers, but it also highlights that not all Americans start from the same footing—race, economic background, and neighborhood significantly influence mobility and success.

In contemporary society, different Americans envision the American Dream differently. For some, it connotes economic independence, such as homeownership or starting a business; for others, it signifies personal happiness and fulfillment. Gardner’s journey from sleeping in shelters to leading his own brokerage firm symbolizes the classic “rags-to-riches” narrative, but he also emphasizes that happiness derives from personal fulfillment and providing for one's family, rather than wealth alone. His story illustrates that the American Dream is multifaceted, encompassing both material success and emotional well-being.

The pursuit of the American Dream often involves sacrifice, persistence, and resilience. Gardner’s determination in the face of hardship exemplifies these qualities. When he finally secures a full-time position and eventually establishes his own company, it underscores the importance of perseverance. Beyond material accumulation, his story highlights the significance of dignity, self-reliance, and the desire for personal and financial independence. His success is not merely about wealth, but about gaining the freedom to shape his future and that of his family.

While the traditional view of the American Dream emphasizes material prosperity, contemporary interpretations recognize the importance of social justice and equal opportunity. Achieving the dream requires collective effort and societal reforms to address disparities. For example, policies aimed at reducing educational inequality, improving economic mobility, and combating racial discrimination can make the dream more accessible for all Americans. Gardner’s story serves as an inspiring reminder that individual effort is vital, but systemic support is crucial to ensure everyone has a fair shot at success.

In conclusion, the American Dream remains a powerful and complex ideal that continues to motivate individuals across the nation. It is rooted in the aspiration for personal achievement, economic stability, and happiness, and is shaped by societal values, structures, and individual resilience. Gardner’s compelling narrative exemplifies that perseverance, determination, and integrity are essential to realizing this dream. However, achieving it universally requires addressing systemic inequalities and ensuring that opportunities are accessible to all, regardless of their background. Ultimately, the American Dream is about the pursuit of a better life—one that combines material success with personal fulfillment and societal justice.

References

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