As an American, we think we know exactly what “The American Dream” means, since we have heard it hundreds of times in our lives. Wikipedia says: “In general, the American Dream can be defined as being the opportunity and freedom for all citizens to achieve their goals and become wealthy and renowned if only they work hard enough.”
What goals are the providence of all Americans? What would you achieve if given the opportunity?
-Lonny Stern | Communications and Outreach Director
The “American Dream” is as slippery a concept to nail down as is “middle class.” However, I think the American Dream involves:
1. Ability to enjoy all the freedoms granted in the Constitution AND satisfy all the responsibilities in there (however interpreted by the judicial branch and amended by the legislative branch over the years)
2. Ownership of your primary residence
3. Having enough funds for your kids to get a BA with minimal debt
4. Taking a 1-2 year vacation every year
5. Saving enough money to be able to retire at 65 (or whatever, given life expectancy)
6. Each successive generation does better (financially, quality of life – wise) than the generation that preceded it
7. Leaving behind a legacy of some kind (as defined as helping at least one other person achieve their own American Dream – it helps if this person is not directly related to you but not necessarily
8. The pursuit of happiness – another slippery one but defined as maximum physical and mental health given ones genetics and self-induced factors and living above the poverty line.