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15 Perspectives On The American Dream: Alive And Thriving Or A Long-Gone Fantasy?

There are so many misconceptions about the American dream. A user asked the forum, “Do you think the American dream still exists or is long gone ?” Here are the top responses. 

IT HASN’T CHANGED

"The American dream, offering the chance to rise from poverty to middle class, hasn't changed. Many incorrectly assume it's about becoming super rich, lacking historical context of its roots in offering hope to those from repressed countries."<

VARIES FROM PERSON TO PERSON

"The 'American Dream' differs for everyone. It could be a suburban life, career satisfaction, or starting a farm. It's about personal happiness. "

TRUE FOR PEOPLE WHO START A BUSINESS

"The American Dream, for immigrants who start a business or pursue education, is thriving. Misconceptions often mask the original meaning: hard work and ingenuity could create a better life for one's family. However, it is more difficult for middle class families to elevate to higher income brackets."

PEOPLE STILL COME TO AMERICA FOR JOBS AND ECONOMIC PROSPERITY

"Yes, the American Dream exists. It may not be the typical family in the suburbs, but people come here for job prospects and wealth."

IT IS NOT AUTOMATIC

"It still exists but isn't automatic. Many complain about unaffordable housing in big cities, a century-old issue."

IT IS STILL ALIVE IN MY HOUSEHOLD

"I was disowned for being gay but financed my own education, now VP at a Fortune 5 firm. My husband, from Brazil's poverty-stricken areas, now works at a Fortune 10. We built our lives from scratch."

ALIVE FOR THOSE WHO HAS VALUE TO OFFER

"I collaborate with small businesses. Success requires value, hard work and business acumen, traits I often see in immigrants rather than native-born Americans."

I MADE MORE MONEY THAN MY PARENTS

“I make more in one year than my parents made in 5 years. Yeah, I hint it still exists.”

WORK HARD ATTITUDE ISN’T ENOUGH ANYMORE

"Coming to this country requires more than a 'work hard' attitude. Luck also plays a part, and sadly, it eludes many."

NEVER STOP FIGHTING FOR IT

“Still exists, and we must never stop fighting for it! We have to make it more attainable for everyone who works hard!”

IT’S STILL HERE

“Nah, it’s still here. Too many successful immigrants are running around for it not to be.”

THERE ARE BARRIERS TO IT

"Social mobility decline has threatened the American dream of prosperity. From 1950-1970, 50% had a chance to reach the top 5% of income at least once in their life."

EXISTS ONLY FOR THE TOP 30% OF THE ECONOMIC CLASS

"The American Dream is only for the top 30% economy class. The bottom 70% suffer due to plutocracy and conservative neoliberal ideology."

YOU NEED THE DRIVE

"It exists, but achieving it can be nearly impossible for many. Picture the American Dream as a mountain, some are born closer to the summit than others."

IT REQUIRES HARD WORK

“Absolutely. It requires hard work that a lot of disenchanted Americans won’t do. On the other hand, my Jamaican, African, and Indian friends realize it.”

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