The Horatio Alger Myth is alive and well in our contemporary culture. It is as disturbing as it is real. It is seen in those we idolize and most often live vivaciously through such as talk show hosts, hip-hop rappers, garage bands, and countless reality show contestants. Their success stories are generally known to the public which aren’t the best examples for our society to look up to. They are average people who all so happened to be somewhere at the right place and time to get that break for fame. Placing this people on pedestals is unfortunate for us because of the simple fact they are human with human qualities, but are judged on a higher standard because they are in the public eye. We see extraordinary in these ordinary people because that is what film has taught us-- tricked us into thinking our hard work is ALL it takes to succeed.
As for teaching our children? We should tell them the truth and give them hope--challenging them to overcome.
Unfortunately, because there are so many other factors to take into consideration for achieving success I strongly believe the Horatio Alger Myth is negative and not true.
Currently hegemony is in American consumerism. In other countries American brands are more than just statements of taste-- they represent a form of beauty and success through the appeal of choice symbols and words.
No comments:
Post a Comment