American Regression
Travis Foglesong
Dr. Carter
English 111-F23
February 19, 2013
The American Regression In Cal Thomas ' article, “Is the American Dream Over?” he expresses a strong, anti-liberal opinion that explains why “the American dream” is lost. The article points out that the American society has become too dependent on a dysfunctional government while the key to a successful life in America used to lie in individual initiative. Certain traits, that had lead past generations to success, have been lost, buried underneath laziness, dependance, and indulgence. Most Americans refuse to acknowledge their own flaws, that keep them from achieving their goals, and look for any kind of scapegoat that they can fine: rather it be the government, the media, or their situation. Thomas provides the realistic evidence that proves that “the American dream,” is long gone as a result of the American society itself. Blaming the government for one 's economic trouble tends to be the go-to strategy for those who have become “government addicts” (as Thomas calls them) rather than reflecting on the individuals irresponsible decisions and life style. A large number of these citizens depend on the same government to fix their problems and refuse to resolve their financial issues on their own. “People who believe a politician of whatever party or persuasion can make their life better than individual initiative are doing more than dreaming; such persons are displaying cult-like faith, which can never be fulfilled,” Thomas states in his article (569-570). In past generations, a self-serving American was looked down on, today, the few Americans that are willing to take care of themselves are now the roll model citizens. “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country,” said during former president John F. Kennedy 's inaugural address, briefly describes the required attitude that an American citizen, sneaking “the American dream” needs. America 's past has
Dr. Carter
English 111-F23
February 19, 2013
The American Regression In Cal Thomas ' article, “Is the American Dream Over?” he expresses a strong, anti-liberal opinion that explains why “the American dream” is lost. The article points out that the American society has become too dependent on a dysfunctional government while the key to a successful life in America used to lie in individual initiative. Certain traits, that had lead past generations to success, have been lost, buried underneath laziness, dependance, and indulgence. Most Americans refuse to acknowledge their own flaws, that keep them from achieving their goals, and look for any kind of scapegoat that they can fine: rather it be the government, the media, or their situation. Thomas provides the realistic evidence that proves that “the American dream,” is long gone as a result of the American society itself. Blaming the government for one 's economic trouble tends to be the go-to strategy for those who have become “government addicts” (as Thomas calls them) rather than reflecting on the individuals irresponsible decisions and life style. A large number of these citizens depend on the same government to fix their problems and refuse to resolve their financial issues on their own. “People who believe a politician of whatever party or persuasion can make their life better than individual initiative are doing more than dreaming; such persons are displaying cult-like faith, which can never be fulfilled,” Thomas states in his article (569-570). In past generations, a self-serving American was looked down on, today, the few Americans that are willing to take care of themselves are now the roll model citizens. “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country,” said during former president John F. Kennedy 's inaugural address, briefly describes the required attitude that an American citizen, sneaking “the American dream” needs. America 's past has
Cited: Thomas, Cal, “I The American Dream Over?” They Say I Say, Ed. Gerald Graff, Cathy Birkenstien, Russel Durst. New York: W. W. Norton & Company, 2006.