Art unit 7 discussion - Research Paper Example

What do you see as “the American dream” and how is it associated to happiness? What are some places in the world where the definition of happiness might be different?NameUniversityWhat do you see as “the American dream” and how is it associated to happiness? What are some places in the world where the definition of happiness might be different? The American Dream is a code of the United States, in which prosperity and success is promised to the people. It is the belief of the people that the dream would bring a sense of achievement and peace to all.

It consists of the basic elements, which everyone wants. Getting paid enough to support one’s family, proper health care facility, confirmation that the children get quality education, retirement benefit and everything that ensures the happiness of a person and he or she is content with what they have. Most U.S. citizens are adamant that the American Dream can be achieved, and it will guarantee them all a life of happiness and joy, as all their basic requirements will be fulfilled. (The Public Wants Help Achieving the American Dream by Ruy Teixeira. 2007) Different cultures and countries perceive happiness in different ways.

In western countries, such as Latin America, people believe that they are happy if they have achieved all their goals in their life. In socialist countries such as Japan and China, people have more of a philosophical view towards happiness. They believe that happiness is a blessing from God, and one’s capability or personal accomplishments, do not play a part in this. For example, in Japan people consider that they have acquired happiness by performing their social duties, satisfying the hopes of their families, and by co-operating with others.

To them, happiness is achieved more by assisting the society, unlike America where people consider themselves to be happy after gaining pride and success in their lives. (The pursuit of happiness, New Scientist. 2003)Bibliography:The Public Wants Help Achieving the American Dream by Ruy Teixeira < http://www.americanprogress.org/issues/2007/11/po_americandream.html> The pursuit of happiness, New Scientist < http://biopsychiatry.com/happiness/happycountry.html>