Is the American Dream Dying?

ntroduction To Sociology

Assignment: Discussion Topics
Chapter 8 Social Class in the United States
Is the American Dream Dying?
https://mediaplayer.pearsoncmg.com/assets/_video.true/sociology-2017-blue_chalk_videos-american_dream_dying

Based on your understanding of the concepts discussed in the textbook, video, and other credible
reading resources, write a minimum of 250 words responding to the discussion topics. You must
answer a minimum of three (3) questions.

Submit your assignment on CANVAS in accordance with the instructions accessible under Chapter 8 Discussion Topics. Bring a copy to class as we discuss the sociological perspective of the impact of change in the United States and so forth.
This assignment is for (70 points) that will be used to calculate your final grade.

Content – your paper should clearly show an understanding of the terms and concepts
examined in the class. (33 % of available points). Additionally, based on your understanding of
the sociological perspective of the symbolic interaction, functional and conflict theories, select
one theory and give one brief example of social class.
Writing and presentation – clear in expression of ideas, logical, and use of unbiased language or
stereotype. (34 % of available points). Number each question.
Personal reflections – (33 % of available points)

Discussion topics
1. What is social class?
2. Define and describe briefly social inequality.
3. Take some time to define the “American Dream” as it existed for previous generations.

4. What are the greatest barriers to the American Dream (as defined in question 3) for young people today? Think about the statistics presented in the video.

5. While the younger generations of Americans are not living the American Dream of their parents or grandparents, what are they doing well? For every generation, is the American Dream accessible to everyone? Discuss who the American Dream applies to.

6. Is the American Dream dead or is it changing? What do the changes mean for society?

Source: Adapted from Pearson Originals for Sociology.
Allen, Brenda J. 2004. “Social Class Matters,” in Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity. Waveland Press, Inc. pp.95–116.

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