Why is the American dream becoming harder to achieve in the U.S? The American dream is getting harder to achieve because of things like income, growing inequality, discrimination and segregation in cities across the U.S. However, in recent years, there has been a growing concern that the American Dream is becoming increasingly difficult to achieve. Economic, social, and political factors have all contributed to this trend, creating barriers and challenges that prevent many individuals from fulfilling their aspirations.
One of the main reasons why the American Dream is becoming harder to achieve is the widening wealth gap in the United States. Income inequality has reached unprecedented levels with the wealthiest individuals and families amassing an increasing share of the country’s resources. This has made it more challenging for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds to access the same opportunities and resources as their more difficult counterparts, perpetuating a cycle of inequality and limiting social mobility.
“The idea that a person who works a full-time job 40 hours a week, with benefits, can be totally financially stable is a fallacy we need to stop perpetuating.” Additionally, rising costs of living, education, and healthcare have placed a significant burden on many individuals and families, making it harder for them to achieve their dreams. The high cost of education, in particular, has become a major barrier for young people seeking to improve their social and economic status and pursue their career goals. The burden of student loan debt has led many individuals to delay major life milestones, such as purchasing a home or starting a family. Further hindering their ability to achieve the American Dream.
Furthermore, changes in the job market and the rise of automation have resulted in a decline in stable, well paying jobs that were once considered a pathway to achieving the American Dream. Many industries have experienced significant shifts and disruptions, leading to job insecurity and a lack of opportunities for upward mobility. The economy and temporary work arrangements have further compounded these challenges, creating a precarious economic environment for many individuals. Another factor contributing to the difficulty of achieving the American Dream is the lack of affordable housing and limited access to home ownership. Rising property taxes and stagnant wages have made it difficult for many. Housing makes it unattainable for many people and families to achieve the stability and security that home ownership provides.
Systemic barriers such as discrimination and prejudice continue to hinder the opportunities available to marginalized communities, future generations, the inequalities that prevent many people from achieving the American Dream. Structural racism, sexism, and other forms of discrimination makes it harder for people from underrepresented backgrounds to access the same opportunities and resources as their more privileged counterparts, limiting their ability to achieve their goals.
In conclusion, the American Dream is indeed becoming harder to achieve for many people in the United States. Economic inequality, rising costs, changes in the job market, lack of affordable housing, and systemic barriers all contribute to the challenges that prevent people from reaching their goals. Addressing these issues will require a concerted effort from policymakers, business leaders, and society as a whole to create a more equitable and inclusive society as a whole where everyone has the opportunity to achieve their dreams.
