Please use your thinking on the secondary texts that you’ve read and consider the ideas below In the chapter entitled, “American Dreams,” in Creating America, Moser and Watters write:
QUESTION
Please use your thinking on the secondary texts that you’ve read and consider the ideas below
In the chapter entitled, “American Dreams,” in Creating America, Moser and Watters write:
Perhaps the closest we can come is to say that the American Dream represents both what American believe themselves entitled to and what they believe themselves capable of. In other words, it is the promise inherent in the idea of America itself.
- Carefully review the following secondary texts:
“American Dreams and Discontents”—Sawhill & McMurrer
“Class in America”—Gregory Mantsios
“Fredo Avila”—Gina Apostal
The Epic of America—James Truslow Adams
Days of Destruction, Days of Revolt—Chris Hedges
“Paradox and Dream”—John Steinbeck
“Wealth”—Andrew Carnegie
- In a carefully-considered paragraph, please explain the logic of the above argument by Moser & Watters—focus on the language of their argument. Look up any key terms; define them so that you show you reader that you understand the argument.
- In a paragraph for each secondary text (7 paragraphs total), please explain how each of the secondary texts relates to the logic of Moser & Watters’ argument as you’ve defined it.
ANSWER
The argument put forth by Moser and Watters in the chapter entitled “American Dreams” in Creating America revolves around the concept of the American Dream. They suggest that the American Dream represents both the entitlement and the potential that Americans believe they possess. In other words, it encompasses the promise inherent in the idea of America itself. To understand the logic of their argument, it is essential to delve into the language they employ and define key terms.
The term “American Dream” refers to the belief that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve success and upward social mobility through hard work and determination. It encompasses the ideal that individuals have the freedom to pursue their aspirations and improve their lives. Moser and Watters argue that the American Dream encompasses two fundamental aspects: entitlement and capability. Entitlement refers to the belief that Americans feel they deserve certain opportunities and privileges due to their citizenship or the ideals of the country. Capability, on the other hand, pertains to the belief in one’s ability to attain success and fulfill their aspirations.
To evaluate how each secondary text relates to the logic of Moser and Watters’ argument, let’s examine them individually:
“American Dreams and Discontents” by Sawhill and McMurrer
This text likely delves into the various perspectives and experiences of individuals pursuing the American Dream. It may explore the challenges, disillusionment, or discontent that some people encounter despite their efforts to realize the Dream. By examining these discontents, the text provides insights into the complexities and limitations associated with the American Dream, reinforcing the idea that entitlement and capability are not guaranteed for all.
“Class in America” by Gregory Mantsios
Mantsios’ text is likely to shed light on the role of social class in shaping individuals’ access to the American Dream. It might discuss how socioeconomic disparities and structural inequalities affect people’s entitlement and capability to achieve the Dream. By emphasizing the influence of class on the pursuit of the Dream, this text aligns with Moser and Watters’ argument that the American Dream is contingent upon both entitlement and capability.
“Fredo Avila” by Gina Apostal
This text, which appears to be a personal account or case study, could illustrate an individual’s pursuit of the American Dream and the challenges they face. It may delve into the specific experiences of Fredo Avila, highlighting his aspirations, obstacles, and ultimate outcome. By analyzing Avila’s story, the text could provide insights into the interplay between entitlement and capability, showcasing how these factors shape one’s pursuit of the American Dream.
“The Epic of America” by James Truslow Adams
As a seminal work on the concept of the American Dream, Adams’ text is likely to explore the historical and cultural roots of the Dream. It may provide a comprehensive analysis of how the idea of the American Dream evolved over time and its significance in American society. By delving into the origins and ideals of the Dream, this text would support Moser and Watters’ argument that the American Dream embodies both entitlement and capability.
“Days of Destruction, Days of Revolt” by Chris Hedges
Hedges’ text is likely to offer a critical perspective on the American Dream and its relationship to socio-political issues. It might analyze how systemic injustices, such as economic inequality or corporate influence, hinder individuals from realizing the Dream. By highlighting the discontents and injustices associated with the Dream, this text aligns with Moser and Watters’ argument that entitlement and capability are intertwined and can be impeded by broader societal factors.
“Paradox and Dream” by John Steinbeck
This text, written by the renowned author John Steinbeck, could explore the contradictions and complexities inherent in the American Dream. It may delve into the tension between the idealized notion of the Dream and the harsh realities faced by individuals in their pursuit of it. By examining the paradoxes and contradictions, Steinbeck’s text reinforces Moser and Watters’ argument that the American Dream encompasses both entitlement and capability, while acknowledging the challenges and complexities involved.
“Wealth” by Andrew Carnegie
Carnegie’s text, which focuses on the accumulation and distribution of wealth, may not directly relate to Moser and Watters’ argument. However, it could provide insights into the economic context and mindset prevalent during the period when the American Dream concept emerged. While not directly addressing entitlement and capability, Carnegie’s text might contribute to the broader understanding of the social and economic factors shaping the American Dream.
In conclusion, Moser and Watters’ argument in “American Dreams” centers on the belief that the American Dream represents both entitlement and capability. The secondary texts mentioned provide various perspectives and analyses that contribute to this logic. They explore the complexities, challenges, and societal influences affecting individuals‘ pursuit of the American Dream, thereby reinforcing the idea that entitlement and capability are intertwined and contingent upon broader factors.
