The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines the 'american dream' as an American Social ideal that stresses egalitarianism and especially material prosperity.
While all American kids dream of a 9-5 job, two cars, two kids, a dog, and amain mansion (maybe even a beach house in Florida or some exotic place!). But according to a new poll conducted by Harvard's Institute of Politics, 48% of millennials believe that this does is, well, dead. Over 2,000 young Americans between 18 and 29 years old were interviewed about the government, military, the future of the country, and the collective outlook on the future isn't looking so hot.
Granted, half of young Americans said they do think it-- whatever it is-- is still attainable. But the American Dream, as we know it, has shifted in the last decade. Earlier this year, 60 Minutes of Vanity Fair teamed up with Teen Vogue to poll millennials on what it means to them, and found that 44% believe it comes down to giving their kids a better life, while 22% describe it as having a successful career.
Who needs two cars in the garage with you have Uber these days? Am I right?
Because this survey was done between October and November, most of the findings about millennials' thoughts on the 2016 presidential election have most likely evolved a bit (at the time, Trump polled the best among young GOPs, but that was before he made all of those very Trump-like remarks about Muslims, whether they are right or wrong). However, it is pretty astonishing-- and probably accurate-- that the majority (60%) said they support sending the U.S. troops to fight ISIS, and that 16% would be willing to serve in the military if necessary.
One thing is for sure: 2016 sure is going to be interesting!
xoxo, Kaila
Great work with this post, especially in keeping with your focus of looking at young people and their influence on the world around them. This piece speaks directly to the way in which your impact will move our country in a certain direction! Let's hope it is the right one.
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