Response Blog 6

Summary

     In TSIS chapter eight, the phrase “American Dream” has different meanings. Some writers on this chapter say that the American Dream is “a dream with little chance of realization”(562); Cal Thomas replies that it “is alive and well as ever”(562); and Brandon King redefine it as “the potential to work for an honest, secure way of life and save for the future”(573). By contrast, others use mega-chain stores function (Wal-Mart) to define the American Dream; Karen Olssson says that these kinds of stores want their own benefit; they keep “employees’ salaries and benefits low...for high profits” (562), but Sebastian Mallaby says that “Wal-Mart is only doing what it must to survive in a difficult economy”(562), (low prices and better salaries and benefits). Lastly, President Barack Obama explains about “the importance to continue “the American Dream for all despite differences in race, class, and education”(563). Therefore, the “American Dream” does not have a single meaning; it could be understood for each person according to his/her environment and his/her point of view. 

Response

     I agree the most with Brandon King about his American Dream’s perspective. First, because he is a student, hi is a person of middle class (like many of us) who really knows what real life is. Also, because he knows that today economy is not at its best; he uses real examples and statistics to demonstrate it. Next, he encourages readers to never give up in order achieving their goals. Last, he suggests that we have to work hard in order to be successful. The American Dream is “the potential to work for an honest, secure way of life and save for the future”(573). In my opinion, this is the best way to achieve the “American Dream” and all goals in life.