income :: essays research papers

With the average American having a disposable income of $28,277, it is no wonder America has become the consumer nation that it is today (census.gov). In the knightly nine months American economy has shown an economic growth of 5.6%. Improvements in work industry are providing higher-paying, more permanent jobs than before, with less than 10% of new jobs created in 2005 being temporary (economist.com). With better employment opportunities and steady economic growth, America will become even more of a consumer culture than it is today. Mark Hertsgaard observes a more compassionate side of America when he describes consumer spending post 9/11. But the attacks also engendered a new seriousness among the American people, a turning away from self-indulgence and material things in favor of spiritual values and services to others (Hertsgaard 40). The 9/11 attacks left Americans with feelings of sympathy and remorse, as tumefy as a feeling of unity that was shared throughout the country. Hertsgaard stated that after the attacks, the consequent drop in consumer spending turned the economy into an directly recession (Hertsgaard 40). While the economy itself unarguably suffered an obvious and drastic decline, Americans did not waste much time before they used the attacks on the World swap Center as a means to make a profit. Millions of products advertised as 9/11 memorabilia were suddenly being sold everywhere. These items were announced as apparent ways for Americans to show their unity and patriotism, as well as their loyalty and support for their country. Sweatshirts, posters, coffee mugs, and just about anything that could in some way display images or messages were applicable to be sold as keepsakes from the tragic event. While a day as disastrous and devastating as 9/11 left most of America with feelings of grief, especially for those who had lost loved ones, the American Dream was far from being forgotten. The American Dream holds unlike meanings for differen t individuals, depending on their own opinions and perceptions. Despite the fact that this phrase holds not one particular meaning, and is a somewhat varied idea, its accepted interpretation includes achieving successfulness through hard work, courage and determinationNaturally, Americans strive to be the best they can be, regardless of what it is they are doing. It is normal for a someone in any profession to desire a promotion, which is a direct route to their actual goal a higher salary. Lee Price, of the Economic constitution Institute, holds an opinion which contrasts Hertsgaards idea that the 9/11 attacks were completely responsible for the economic decline.