THE POLLS—TRENDS ATTITUDES ABOUT THE AMERICAN DREAM

Abstract Results from a number of U.S. public opinion polls collect-ed in the past two decades are used to examine trends in attitudes about the American Dream. Trends are examined in the following areas: “What is the American Dream? ” “Is the American Dream achievable?” and “What is the role of government and politics in the American Dream? ” Findings suggest that a majority of Americans consistently re-ported that the American Dream (for themselves and their family) is more about spiritual happiness than material goods. However, the size of this majority is decreasing. Most Americans continued to believe that working hard is the most important element for getting ahead in the United States. However, in some surveys, an increasing minority of Americans reported that this hard work and determination does not guarantee success. A majority of respondents believe that achieving the American Dream will be more difficult for future generations, al-though this majority is becoming smaller. Americans are increasingly pessimistic about the opportunity for the working class to get ahead and increasingly optimistic about the opportunity for the poor and im-migrants to get ahead in the United States. Although trends show consistency in Americans blaming Blacks for their condition (not dis-crimination), a majority of Americans consistently support programs that make special efforts to help minorities get ahead