Who was the least guilty President? Lincoln. He was in-a-cent






How would you describe the "American Dream?"

Personally, my American Dream is being successful and making the most of the opportunities that this country gives me. However, this varies because not everybody has the same opportunities in the work force and in life in general. This has progressed considerably, and this "dream" has evolved over time for many different groups of people. The American dream for women before the 1920's was gaining the same basic human rights as men and being able to vote and participate in democracy. Now the dream has evolved because women are becoming more powerful in many facets of life. Unfortunately, some people aren't given the same opportunities which distorts the American Dream. It brings up the question: If not everyone can achieve the same American Dream, and have the same opportunities, can it really be considered the "American Dream?" America is supposed to include and embody everyone in America but this is truly not the case. People who grow up living in Low-Income neighborhoods and communities have less of a chance of graduating high-school due to the lack of opportunities or funds to pay for items such as tutoring or textbooks (my Bio textbook was 80 dollars used!!). Additionally, African Americans are incarcerated at more than 5 times the rate of whites. Furthering the idea that the American Dream does not provide equal opportunities for all people.I believe that the inequality in our society leaves it nearly impossible to describe an "American Dream" that would truly embody what it means to be an American.

What is your definition of wealth?

My definition of wealth is quite simple, you can have many different types of wealth, financially you can be wealthy and own diamond jewelry and a giant mansion. You can be wealthy with the happiness and contentment with your life. I believe that an individuals definition of wealth is important in determining one's own "American dream." If you are more focused on being happy, this completely changes how you perceive and take advantage of the opportunities presented to you.

What are Americans' attitudes of Wealth and Poverty? What are your attitudes of Wealth and Poverty?

Growing up and having a subjective view of the world as a young-in, I always believed that wealth meant you were successful and if you were poor you did not work hard. I truly think this is the American view of poverty and wealth in America. I think all people grow up wanting to be rich and successful, and this is a common goal with Americans today. However, people also can view the poor as those who need help and who just need the proper resources in order to succeed in life. My attitudes of wealth and poverty is that some people are born into lifestyles and situations that makes it very difficult to get out of poverty. A recent study showed that 70% of those born into a lower income household, stay in the low-income bracket when they grow older. Those who view people in poverty as lazy clearly are not aware of the implications of growing up in that environment and the struggle of succeeding when the numbers are against you. I do not view wealth as happiness, however, I worry about being comfortable and being able to have a family some day. I want to be able to provide my family with the most opportunities possible in order to succeed and compete in the world. I also believe that the extremely wealthy are responsible for giving back to the community in any way they can. The salaries of professional athletes is insane (male athletes, there's that inequality again!) and is, in my opinion (don't hurt me) a waste of money, that could be going to people who save lives, or work tirelessly to support their family everyday. The extreme wealth contrasted with the extreme poverty is a large problem within the United States.

Works Cited:
http://economy.money.cnn.com/2013/11/13/making-it-into-the-middle-class/
http://www.naacp.org/criminal-justice-fact-sheet/



Comments

  1. Hey girl! You wrote a novel, but it was a good one. I loved how you touched on the fact that the lack of opportunities in the United States leave the playing field very unequal for minorities and for those with low-incomes. Love the jab at male athletes also, because it is very true! Love this post Hayley!!

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