1. I believe that the American Dream is for individuals to be able to find a place for themselves in society, and to prosper within this place. Their place in society should be self-chosen, and within this place, the dream is to be self-sufficient, being independent of others, but being sufficient enough in this place to be able to support other individuals if desired.
2. Wealth extends further than the generally accepted definition of wealth as a substantial accumulation of money or possessions. The definition of wealth should be to have the happiness, the mental quality, the physical health quality, and all other goals met that a person desires. Wealth should not be taken for granted, but should be seen as a layer of clouds that you rise to and float on comfortably. Wealth should be defined as comfortable living, and that definition should be defined by each individual.
3. I believe Americans have one of two opinions about wealth and poverty. An American can either view it as a set of categories in which people can be placed, and use this system of categories to hold themselves to standards above or below other people; or view wealth and poverty as a grey scale that is not a determining value in a person's worth.
4. I think wealth and poverty are tricky subjects. I strongly feel that wealth and poverty should not define an individual, but I am able to recognize that within our society, they are frequently defining factors, as their are limitations that social classes have unfortunately imposed on others. I think that Wealth and Poverty should be understood to be fluctuating aspects of life, that can change instantaneously, and should not be taken for granted.
Awesome post! I agree with all of your opinions, and I really appreciate your outlook on wealth in particular. I think that a lot of people in this world need to take a look at your definition of wealth; it's so much more than materialism. However, while wealth can fluctuate, I think that poverty doesn't. GREAT post, Gillian!
ReplyDeleteYo yo Gillybean, great post! I also said that wealth was more about happiness and health rather than money and possessions. I am curious as to what you mean by a grey scale that doesn't determine value of a person. I guess you mean people who are indifferent towards wealth? I like how you bring up the hierarchy of wealth are determining people's value and the fact that wealth and poverty are not invariable. I'd like to know what you would say the motive behind Gatsby's pursuit of were: happiness or possession? And how would you adjust your definition of wealth based on your answer?
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