The concept of the 'American Dream' is often used to describe a certain national ideology that unifies Americans. However, there is no clear definition of the American Dream. According to Washington ProFile, every US resident puts their own ideas of a bright future into it. This thesis is usually considered one of the foundations of the Protestant work ethic, which probably corresponds to reality.
Interestingly, the concept of the 'American Dream' appeared a century and a half after the formation of the United States. The quintessence of the American Dream is considered to be the idea that every person with abilities, energy, and diligence can succeed honestly in life, becoming a respectable and wealthy person.
At the end of January 2009, 56% of Americans believed in the possibility of realizing the 'American Dream'. Analysis of the survey results showed that 'believers' and 'non-believers' differ significantly in their outlooks on life. Those Americans who are confident that the dream can become reality are generally self-confident. The main reasons why US residents argue that they can realize the American Dream are as follows: 'I am smart and work hard, so I will definitely succeed' (opinion of 59% of respondents), 'America is a land of opportunity' (52%), 'I am an optimist' and 'I am not afraid of losing business or a job' (25% each), 'My religion helps me achieve success' (15%).
Those who are convinced that the 'American Dream' is nothing more than a beautiful phrase tend to blame the authorities. 'Pessimists' explain their inability to make the dream a reality as follows: 'The country's authorities do not care about people like me' (44%), 'We are not obliged to strive for ideals' (29%), 'The cost of living is too high' (27%), 'I am a pessimist' (10%). In addition, reasons such as recent job loss or transfer to a low-paying position were mentioned. Overall, supporters of the Republican Party, religious people, and those under 30 are more often convinced of the reality of the 'American Dream'.