The term, the American dream was first put into print the year of 1931. The saying was coined by the author Truslow Adams as he used it in his book 'the epic of America'. The basis of the dream was "individual freedom, social justice, the ability to participate in the consumer economy, and the hope of a better place for one's children" (Reuben 2). But when one thinks of the American dream today we picture a big white house in the suburbs with a luxury car inside a two car garage, a high wage, and a happy stay at home mom who takes care of the first two kids, who both in turn will grow up to become successful. The goals of the dream fashioned in the 30's are a whole different set than that of the modern dream.
When money is used as a judgment meter then the dream is realistically within reach for many average Americans.
The American Dream, New Jersey 1991
The Statue of Liberty front shot, on Liberty Islan...
My American DreamHowever when money is the measurement, the dream is not something that a person ought to spend their life working towards. Wealth and material possessions are not something that a person should prioritize or aspire for. Perhaps the satisfaction of succeeding in creating a life for oneself is a reasonable ambition, although this would fit into the dream crafted in the 30's.
If I were to make a list of goals for my life my list would resemble that of the 30's dream closer than what I have determined is the modern American dream. My dream job would be one that challenges my mind, and is enjoyably, not a job that will pay out. The American dream today disregards having experiences and focuses only material possessions.
The modern materialistic, financially based American dream often becomes an American nightmare which in turn...