What exactly is the American Dream? In the past it was often defined as capitalism – working hard to achieve. In college, I once heard a classmate insist that it was the ownership of one’s own home. Some might be more inclined to believe that it is family and certain freedoms. The American Dream is probably best defined individually; meaning success on one’s own terms. That leaves the definition open to many interpretations which would all be relevant and I suppose, “correct.”
Here in Nashville, music and fame dreams seem to top the list. I am finding that even in my guidance classes, students more than ever tell me that they want to be “famous” when they grow up. In talking about career choices for the future, students used to name things like attorneys, police officers, firefighters, teachers, accountants, etc. Now they want to be “famous,” and that is the word they use. They don’t necessarily say they want to be singers or actors necessarily but just to be “famous.” Is this the new American Dream? If so, what is it about fame that has become so alluring that it is seen as a goal in and of itself? Could it be the fame/notoriety that the ever popular reality shows have exposed our young people to? Is it financial gain?
We see people in the news (the White House crashing Salahis, the “Balloon Boy” story, and others) where, when the truth comes out, the people involved were simply trying to get media coverage to make themselves more “ripe” for a reality show and the fame and money that goes with it. That is a very different American Dream than most of us would have heard about even ten years ago. More recently, we have noted the extreme media coverage of shows like “Toddlers and Tiaras” which many believe over sexualizes young girls with parent permission and encouragement. Parents of these children seem to have a great need for fame themselves – or is it the money? If it is truly money motivated, then it opens the whole issue of selling children, who are not yet old enough to make such a decision, to the media.
Has the media created a new American Dream? Is it even specifically American? It would appear that the dream of working hard towards an education, building a business and the spirit of sacrifice has taken a back seat to easy money, often earned through displays of outrageous behaviors.
Parents, it might be interesting to have a conversation with your children about what they think the American Dream is. I know I’m going to ask that very question in my classes this week just to see what responses I get. I’m not going to ask them what career choice they are going to make; just what is their definition of the American Dream. Maybe I’ll be surprised; maybe I won’t! Would love to hear what your kids say!
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