You will write a 1,500-2,000 word (6-8 pages, double spaced) essay on the following prompt, being sure to include all stated requirements (see below). References are in addition to this length requirement, so do not count the reference page toward the total.
Define what the “American Dream” means to you. Use at least one source to explain how it has been discussed in American society.
Who has access to this dream (who is likely to attain it)? In your answer, DEFINE social class (think Hout…)
Based on what you have learned in this course so far, what would you do to improve the chances that more people could attain this American Dream, as you defined it? (Think in terms of policy changes, such as taxation or increased eligibility for social programs, etc.)
WHY do you think the measures you mentioned would help?
What theories (that we have discussed) align with your suggestion?
How accepted do you think this proposal would be? (What leads you to believe this?)
How would your proposal affect absolute and relative mobilities for people in this country? Be sure to DEFINE both absolute and relative mobilities separately.
What do you think the longterm effects on society would be if the “American Dream” was more accessible? (Wilkinson is good to consider here…)
You must use the materials from the course to back up your answers. You may use outside sources as well. Tell my WHY through data.
You must cite at least 6 sources. At least 4 of these must be from this course. You may use 2 from outside sources, using your research skills to find reliable information. (Do not cite Wikipedia — though Wikipedia may be helpful to get you started on ideas).
You must always cite a source when you are referring to a specific fact, piece of data, crediting a theorist, paraphrasing someone, quoting someone, etc. As upper-level undergrads, this is an important practice. Please review citation guides and/or visit writing tutors if you are unsure.
You must use at least one mobility table to help support your answer and demonstrate you know how to read it by citing a minimum of 2 figures from the table. (For instance, read a few facts from the mobility tables to prove why you are proposing the solution you are, doing so in a way that demonstrates you know what numbers represents the parents’ generation in that table and what numbers represent the adult child’s, etc. )The Brookings article is one option and can be one of your required 6 sources.
You must incorporate the concepts of absolute and relative mobilities, using them in a way that lets me clearly see you understood the concepts and can relate it to your proposed solution.
You must demonstrate to me that you can read a mobility table. This can be incorporated into your reasoning
You must provide in-text citations and a reference page. I don’t care what style you use (APA, MLA, etc.) as long as it’s consistent. The reference page does NOT count toward your page requirements.
You must proofread your paper and ensure it meets collegiate writing standards. I highly encourage you to visit a writing tutor on campus.
I encourage the use of subheadings. I find them extraordinarily useful for not only my organization when writing, but also for reading essays. Subheadings ensure your sections stay on topic and provide for easier transitions.
Here are sources FROM the course to help:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/heathermcgowan/2019/08/07/can-we-save-the-american-dream/?sh=7f778eb63c89
https://www.brookings.edu/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/02_economic_mobility_sawhill.pdf
https://www.brookings.edu/research/horatio-alger-got-married-in-salt-lake-city-intergenerational-mobility-place-and-marriage/
https://www.thenation.com/article/archive/death-horatio-alger/
