Bonfires of the American Dream in American Rhetoric, Literature and Film

The book "Bonfires of the American Dream" explores how American values mutate and intersect in an era of runaway high-end inequality and evaporating upward mobility, leading to a collapse in social solidarity. It suggests that the American Dream falsely suggests that those who succeed economically are "winners," while the rest of us are "losers," which conflicts with our traditions of democracy and egalitarianism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 136 pages
Publication date: 14 June 2022
Publisher: Anthem Press

The collapse of American social solidarity is a complex issue that stems from the intersection of rapidly increasing inequality and diminishing upward mobility. In this era, the American Dream, which portrays economic success as the sole measure of success and failure, creates a false narrative that divides society into "winners" and "losers." This narrative contradicts the fundamental principles of democracy and egalitarianism that have shaped American society for centuries.

To better understand the cultural factors that contributed to this collapse, Daniel Shaviro, in his book Bonfires of the American Dream, conducts a close cultural analysis of classic novels and films such as Atlas Shrugged, The Great Gatsby, Its a Wonderful Life, and The Wolf of Wall Street. Through these works, Shaviro sheds light on the societal pressures, moral compromises, and cultural values that have led to the erosion of social cohesion.

One of the central themes of Bonfires of the American Dream is the notion of individualism and self-interest. Shaviro argues that in the pursuit of economic prosperity, individuals have become increasingly isolated and self-centered, neglecting the broader social and collective interests. This shift has led to a breakdown in trust, empathy, and cooperation, as people prioritize their own needs and desires over those of their communities.

Another issue that Shaviro explores is the rise of materialism and consumerism. He argues that the constant pursuit of material possessions and the desire to keep up with societal trends have eroded the sense of community and social responsibility. People have become more focused on acquiring wealth and status, rather than building meaningful relationships and contributing to the well-being of others.

Furthermore, Shaviro points out the influence of media and popular culture on shaping societal values and attitudes. He argues that the constant exposure to images of wealth, success, and glamour has created a culture of envy and dissatisfaction, leading people to prioritize materialistic goals over personal fulfillment and social connections.

To address the collapse of American social solidarity, Shaviro suggests several steps. He advocates for a return to values that emphasize community, social responsibility, and equality. This includes promoting policies that address income inequality, promoting social mobility, and fostering a sense of community through initiatives such as community gardens, volunteer programs, and public spaces.

In conclusion, the collapse of American social solidarity is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. By examining the cultural factors that have contributed to this decline, such as individualism, materialism, and media influence, we can begin to address the underlying causes and work towards rebuilding social cohesion. Through policies that prioritize social welfare, education, and community engagement, we can create a more equitable and inclusive society that values the contributions of all its members.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 216 x 140 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839983825