1. How is the American Dream characteristics of American ideals and philosophy? What are the differences between the materialistic and idealistic values associated with the American Dream?

It is characteristics of the American ideals and philosophy because they’re belief was that to have a good life you had to be part of the upper class and the way that the American Dream is portrayed is a shadow under their beliefs. The differences are that the materialistic values are mostly portrayed with having a nice house with a picket fence, a stable career, etc. to not stray from the social norms created by this dream, however the idealistic values of the dream creat opportunities to be more creative in life and to choose a path that fulfills your dreams, whether or not their within the society’s understanding and norms.

2. What was happening economically and socially in the United States in 1949? Was it fairly easy or difficult to get a job? What was America’s standing in the world?

In the United States in 1949, there was recession which caused a downfall in their economy. Since the men were off to fight in the war, the women had replaced them in the working field, meaning that when the soldiers returned, there would be no employment available. The government thus worked to balance the number of working men and women.

3. What is your definition of a salesman? How is a salesman different from someone in another occupation? What attitudes do you think a salesman should have to be successful? What attitudes would hinder him?

A salesman is a worker who either works in a store or is always on the go and their jobs involve selling or promoting products. A salesman earns an income based on how much business their generating. A few important characteristics that a good salesman should have are determination, confidence, respect, optimism, organization, and goal oriented. A few qualities that makes a salesman unsuccessful are disorganization, disrespect, rudeness, and lack of quality products.

4. What effects do the expectations of parents have on the behaviour of their children? In what ways might parental expectations be beneficial? In what ways might they be detrimental?

Parental expectations may be good, however when their dreams for their child turn into unattainable and high expectations and they overemphasis perfection. When perfection from their parents’ eyes are not reached, the child could feel powerless and like a failure. On the contrary, when parents’ expectations are too low, the child may feel lost and lack a sense of purpose and direction. Furthermore, when there are no expectations, there is no motivation or a need to succeed. When the expectations are just right, the child is motivated, has a sense of self-worth, and it helps then develop competence.