Living and Dying by the Myth of Rugged Individualism: A Conversation with Alissa Quart

The concept of American individualism, is a fundamental aspect of our culture and the American dream. Historically shaped by the westward expansion, manifest destiny, and the Puritan theology of self-reliance, this ideology is now facing a shift. 

Current trends suggest that a growing number of young Americans are rejecting the traditional American dream. We'll explore the reasons behind this shift, questioning whether societal complexities, generational changes, or the absorption of 60s and boomer values into the culture are influencing this trend. Despite these changes, why is there a lack of reflection in our politics? This is what Alissa Quart writes about in her new book Bootstrapped: Liberating Ourselves from the American Dream. 

 

My conversation with Alissa Quart: