Unattainability of the Modern American Dream

The American Dream is an idealistic view of what each individual American must do to achieve success in America. Considering the term was coined in 1931, the American Dream has migrated from the concept of political and religious freedom, as well as a better life for one’s family, to the current view of that the dream holds fame and fortune. Today, many Americans view the dream as an unattainable idea due to the pedestals many Americans put themselves on. “The American Dream was now almost by definition unattainable, a moving target that eluded people’s grasp; nothing was ever enough. It compelled Americans to set unmeetable goals for themselves and then consider themselves failures when these goals, inevitably, went unmet.” Other views have determined that if it is in fact achievable, the number of people who can achieve it is severely limited. These observers recognize that discrimination against many ethnic groups as well as slavery existed for many years. Those who believe in these limitations emphasize that the only way anyone can be something is if they are white, rich, smart, lucky and traditionally are in the top ten percent of the nation. Sager states, “A society where anybody can make something of themselves if they: A) come from money, B) are extremely

Happiness is one of life’s most cherished goals, and there are many opportunities for any American to be content. When the first immigrants stepped off the boats and onto American soil, the American Dream was vibrant and alive and still is today. It is living within each American and occasionally beyond America’s shores. It is beating within each heart of its countrymen. It is still a unique offering of which no other motherland can boast. One’s limitations are only of their own making and their belief in more: more life, more freedom, more faith, and more hope. These dreams still exist as they always have and cannot be