Anmerkungen:
Includes bibliographical references and index
Beschreibung:
The American Dream has long been a dominant theme in U.S. culture, one with enduring significance, but these are difficult times for dreamers. The editors of and contributors to The American Dream in the 21st Century examine the American Dream historically, socially, and economically and consider its intersection with politics, religion, race, gender, and generation. The conclusions presented in this short, readable volume provide both optimism for the faith that most Americans have in the possibility of achieving the American Dream and a realistic assessment of the cracks in the dream. The last presidential election offered hope, but the experts here warn about the need for better programs and policies that could make the dream a reality for a larger number of Americans.
Intro -- Contents -- Introduction: The Making and Persistence of the American Dream -- 1. Twilight's Gleaming: The American Dream and the Ends of Republics -- 2. The Politics of the American Dream, 1980 to 2008 -- 3. The Presidency and the Making of the American Dream -- 4. Dreaming in Black and White -- 5. Whose Dream? Gender and the American Dream -- 6. Want Meets Necessity in the New American Dream -- 7. Religion and the American Dream: A Catholic Reflection in a Generational Context -- Conclusion: The American Dream: Where Are We? -- Contributors -- Index.