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Americans are Obsessed with Working Hard. What is it Getting Us?

KQED's Forum

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Rethinking the American Dream: Work, Inequality, and Individualism

This chapter examines the historical evolution of work in American culture, from religious roots to the contemporary ideals of individualism and self-reliance. It critiques the myth of the American work ethic, discussing how systemic inequalities challenge the narrative of self-made success and highlight the disconnect between hard work and financial rewards. Through statistics and cultural insights, the chapter calls for a reevaluation of community support and the realities of economic disparities shaping the modern workforce.

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