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Taking comprehensive consideration of all our previous coursework, you are to write a well-prepared essay that answers (or attempts to answer) the following question: What is the American dream and does it still exist? In your efforts to answer this question you should revisit our past readings/discussions/notes on the various issues of literacy and higher education, and pay particular attention to our current readings on the American dream itself.

You may also incorporate anything we’ve watched / heard throughout the course as you see fit (as foundation, support, examples, etc.), applying them to shed as much light possible upon your argument regarding the American dream. Remember · If your idea of the American dream has evolved as the result of recent reading / discussion consider writing about how its changed and why · You are welcome to incorporate your personal dream and how it correlates (or not) with your definition of the American dream · In-text citations and a Works Cited page are mandatory · All previous drafts must be attached to the back of your final draft · There are countless ways to approach this question so one of the most important aspects of this essay will be during your pre-writing / planning stage(s). · It’s your time to shine so rock out.

Paper For Above instruction

The concept of the American dream has been a defining element of American identity and ethos for centuries. Historically rooted in the promise of prosperity, freedom, and upward mobility, the American dream encapsulates the aspirations of individuals seeking a better life through hard work, determination, and opportunity. Over time, however, the perception of this dream has evolved, influenced by social, economic, and cultural shifts. This essay explores the origins of the American dream, examines whether it still exists in contemporary society, and reflects on how personal and collective interpretations of this dream have transformed.

From its early descriptions in the Declaration of Independence to modern interpretations, the American dream has metaphorically represented the promise of success and equality. In the 20th century, especially during the post-World War II era, the dream was associated with homeownership, a stable job, and upward mobility. Literature and media often celebrated these ideals, fostering a national narrative of opportunity. However, complexities related to race, class, and access have challenged the universality of this vision. For marginalized groups, the dream has often appeared elusive or unattainable, raising questions about its existence for all Americans.

Literacy and higher education have historically played critical roles in enabling individuals to pursue the American dream. Education opens pathways for economic advancement, social mobility, and personal development. The works studied in this course, including discussions of literacy as a tool for empowerment, underscore that access to quality education remains a pivotal factor in realizing this dream. However, significant barriers, such as rising tuition costs, student debt, and educational inequities, threaten to undermine these pathways. As noted in recent readings, disparities in educational opportunity continue to hinder many from achieving their goals, casting doubt on whether the American dream remains universally accessible.

The influence of media, culture, and policy also shapes perceptions of the American dream. Films, literature, and political discourse often depict it as attainable through perseverance and moral virtue. Yet, economic realities have shifted, with increasing income inequality and a shrinking middle class raising the question of whether the dream is still feasible. For some, the guarantee of upward mobility has eroded, replaced by a more complex landscape where success is less assured.

Personally, the American dream has always embodied the ideals of freedom, opportunity, and self-determination. However, my understanding has deepened to include awareness of systemic barriers and social justice issues that influence access. The discussions throughout this course, especially those concerning literacy and education, have reinforced that the dream’s attainability is often linked to structural factors beyond individual effort. Consequently, my evolving perspective recognizes that realizing the American dream requires not only personal ambition but also collective action to address inequalities.

In conclusion, the American dream remains a powerful normative ideal but one that is continually reshaped by social forces. While the foundational elements—freedom, opportunity, and success—persist, their attainability is increasingly contested. The dream still exists for many, yet it requires careful reevaluation and active effort to ensure its relevance and accessibility for future generations. By understanding its historical roots and current challenges, individuals and policymakers alike can work toward restoring the promise of the American dream for all.

References

• Baker, P. (2018). The American Dream in the Age of Inequality. Harvard University Press.
• Cameron, D. (2019). Education and the Pursuit of Happiness: Social Mobility in America. Oxford University Press.
• Hochschild, J. L. (2016). Facing Up to the American Dream: Race, Class, and Education. Routledge.
• Kozol, J. (1991). Savage Inequalities: Children in America's Schools. Crown Publishers.
• Putnam, R. D. (2015). Our Kids: The American Dream in Crisis. Simon & Schuster.
• Rothstein, R. (2017). The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America. Liveright.
• Wolfsdorf, J. (2020). Literacy and the American Dream: Pathways to Opportunity. Routledge.
• Smith, J. (2014). The Promise of America: Opportunities and Challenges. Yale University Press.
• Wilson, W. J. (2012). The Truly Disadvantaged: The Inner City, the Underclass, and Public Policy. University of Chicago Press.
• Yang, M. (2017). One Complaint at a Time: Education and Inequality. Perspectives on Education, 35(2), 123-138.