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Why the American Dream is being redefined in the modern era? Uncovering the secrets of social mobility!
The concept of the American Dream was first proposed by James Truslow Adams in 1931, during the Great Depression. This ideal once represented the promise of freedom and opportunity for success for all, but over time the definition of the American Dream has evolved. From the beginning of democracy, freedom and equality to the current emphasis on material wealth and social mobility, this phenomenon makes people wonder: Why has the American dream been redefined in modern times?
“This is not a dream just about cars and high wages, but a dream about a social order in which everyone can reach the full potential of their inherent abilities.”
Social mobility is a core component of the American Dream, representing the ability of people to advance their economic status through hard work and achievement. According to recent studies, social mobility in the United States is declining. Many projections show that social mobility in the United States is relatively low compared to many European countries, especially the Nordic countries. According to the 2020 Global Social Mobility Index, the United States ranks only 27th.
“54% of American adults believe the American Dream is achievable for them, while 28% believe it is not.”
This data reflects that society's confidence in the American Dream is uneven. The likelihood of believing in the American Dream varies significantly among different ethnic groups. For example, black and Asian Americans, as well as younger generations, are less confident that they can achieve this dream than white, Hispanic, Native American, and older generations. This has heightened concerns about social mobility.
The American people's desire for material wealth has led to a growing culture of materialism and consumerism, but this culture has also raised questions about who is responsible for personal failures. Some critics believe that mainstream culture's one-sided pursuit of success has left many people disappointed in their pursuit of the American dream. This situation also makes people rethink the structural problems of society.
“The mainstream culture of the American Dream has drawn criticism for its focus on materialism and its tendency to place personal blame for failure.”
Over the past few decades, the importance of the labor movement has significantly influenced the realization of the American Dream. The proportion of workers belonging to unions has dropped from 20% in 1983 to 10% in 2024. The labor movement was supposed to provide the foundation for the American Dream, but today it faces challenges that make that dream more difficult to achieve.
Furthermore, American virtue and exceptionalism often overlook historical dilemmas including American slavery and the extermination of Native Americans and their legacies. These historical realities not only challenge the ideals of the American Dream, but also reveal the struggles many people face in achieving that dream.
The Historical Evolution of the American Dream
The concept of the American Dream has evolved over time, from the pioneering spirit of the 18th century to the gold rush of the 19th century, and even to the cultural changes of the 20th century. The foundation of this dream stems from the belief that "all men are created equal" in the Declaration of Independence, but it has encountered various challenges in a highly competitive society.
Additionally influencing this definition is the country's multiculturalism and the strong impact of globalization. The United States has become a symbol of immigration and hope around the world, attracting millions of foreigners. But the ensuing social inequality and gap between the rich and the poor have made the dreams of many people face the test of reality.
Taking the economic development in the early 20th century as an example, the American dream at that time was often misunderstood as material abundance, but lacked consideration for social fairness and moral norms. Some critics do not hesitate to expose the gap between the beautified dream and the actual situation.
The American Dream in Literature
The American Dream as a literary theme is common in works of all periods, from Benjamin Franklin's autobiography to Francis Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, all of which have explored the specific connotations of this dream. Gave different interpretations. These works show the glory and darkness of the American dream from different perspectives.
For example, George Milton's "The Farmer and His Friend" emphasizes that ideal success may not be achieved through hard work, but instead reveals the hardships of pursuing dreams. This situation is even more prominent in today's digital and hurried society, limiting the opportunities for ordinary people to pursue their dreams.
As social values and economic conditions change, the definition of the American Dream continues to evolve. From the consumer culture of the late 20th century to the social movements of the 21st century, many people question: Is the American Dream ultimately a legend or a real path?
Against this backdrop, we ponder once again: Does the evolution of the American Dream truly reflect the hopes and despair of every American?
