ASSIGNMENT: THE AMERICAN CHARACTER
INSTRUCTIONS
The following questions are variations of themes, which illustrate aspects of the American Character. The first question is required. Select four questions from the others (2-9). You should have five essays.Be certain to express your points view.Also, respond to all parts of the discussion question.
1. There are five components of the American Character, which we reviewed. Discuss the meaning and relevance of each one. Show how they are connected or related. Do any of these components conflict with the American Creed, which expresses America's core values? Explain or describe the conflicts.
2. Based upon our class discussions and the reading assignments what do you consider are America's greatest challenges in the twenty-first century, specifically today? Have we fulfilled the promises expressed in the American Creed? Can you identify any unfinished business, which commands America's urgent attention today? Discuss.
3. Comment on the following statement. "America was founded as a nation not defined by blood or soil but by ideas. In its founding moment, America said it correctly but did not behave in complete accord with its stated ideals. Yet, its greatest strength lies in the profound recognition by many of its citizens in the inconsistency between words and deeds and in their passionate commitment to work hard to close the gap." Discuss your views regarding the accuracy of this statement. Identify the gaps and describe the work of those Americans who believed in the "American Ideals." What is the meaning of the expression-"America is a country in continuous revolution"? Discuss examples.
4. Is Lady Liberty who stands in the harbor of America's largest city still alive? Why? Why not?Soon, the country must have a Comprehensive Immigration bill. What are some of the issues, which that bill must address? Reflect on the diversity characteristic of America. We are a country of many cultures. What is the glue that holds all these different groups together? Should we strive to merge these different groups into one "soup puree" or "fruit smoothie" through some process of assimilation? Alternatively, should we pursue the goal of promoting America as a "salad bowl" in which the diverse cultural histories and values are appreciated? Why?
5. America's current foreign policy is described as a "moral obligation to spread democracy around the world" or to "extend the blessings of liberty to all people on earth". What is your view of this policy? What is the source of America's moral authority in representing itself as the "leader of the free world"?
6. You awakened this morning with a great urge to seek the office of President of the United States. How would you wish to change America? What strategies would you use to attract endorsements? Be specific.
7. America has experienced serious tensions in the promotion of its creed. Prepare a report card on America's performance and status. Use the following tensions/conflicts and give America a grade (A, B, C, D, and F) on each one as you evaluate the country's efforts to fulfill its mission.
• Racism
• Sexism
• Liberty
• Equality
• Constitutionalism/Democracy
• Access to Opportunity/the American Dream
• Cultivation and Appreciation of Diversity
• Global Leadership
8. What are America's greatest strengths? What are its major weaknesses?
9. Is it possible or likely that America could become an evil "dictatorship" similar to what happened to Germany in 1933-1945? Why? Why not?