This paper focuses on what it means to be an American and if it is possible for people and immigrants with different cultural backgrounds to acquire an American Identity. In want to find out if the American exceptionalism and its three dimensions give an impression of what it means to gain an American identity. Obviously, being American means to share the same values, but it is not clear if it means to also share the same citizenship. I take a close look at the idea of multiculturalism that challenges the current ideological solutions for equality and diversity in the United States, trying to answer the question whether multiculturalism is or is not a threat to the idea of an American Identity.
The meaning and consequences of national identification have long been the subject of debate among philosophers, historian, and social scientist. The identification with the American country through national attachment, pride, and loyalty is self-evident for many Americans. A national identity shared by fellow citizen creates a sense of unity and a bond of solidarity. The question of what defines an identity or the American identity, to be specific, is not clarified. What is clear, however, is the important and vast difference between a patriot, who feels a sense of pride and love for his country, while the nationalist views his country as superior with a desire to dominate other countries. However, both are bond by their trust for the American values. Freedom, Truth, Justice and the American way of life.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Myths of an American Identity
- American Idealism & Citizenship
- Multicultural Identities
- The Fear of a Multicultural Identity
- Conclusion
Objectives and Key Themes
This paper explores the complexities of American identity, investigating whether a shared national identity is achievable in a multicultural society. It examines the historical evolution of the concept of "American-ness," analyzing the role of myths like American exceptionalism and its impact on the integration of immigrants. The paper also considers the challenges and tensions arising from the pursuit of multiculturalism within the framework of a unified national identity.
- The evolution of American identity throughout history.
- The role of American exceptionalism in shaping national identity.
- The complexities of multiculturalism and its relationship to national identity.
- The tension between shared values and diverse cultural backgrounds.
- The challenges of achieving unity in a diverse nation.
Chapter Summaries
Introduction: This introductory chapter sets the stage by exploring the ongoing debate surrounding national identification and its consequences. It distinguishes between patriotism and nationalism, noting the prevalent belief in American exceptionalism and the “American Creed” (liberty, egalitarianism, individualism, populism, and laissez-faire). The chapter establishes the central question: What does it mean to be American, and can individuals from diverse backgrounds acquire an American identity? The author's intent to examine the impact of multiculturalism on the concept of American identity is clearly articulated.
Myths of an American Identity: This chapter delves into the historical development of the concept of "American character," tracing its evolution from a connection between nationhood and race (primarily white) in the 19th century to a more culturally defined identity in the 20th century due to increased immigration. It discusses the shift in understanding American identity, from a race-based concept to one emphasizing cultural assimilation. The chapter further explores the three dimensions of American exceptionalism: religious, political, and economic, highlighting their role in shaping the national identity and the enduring power of the "American Dream," even amidst its inherent inequalities.
American Idealism & Citizenship: This chapter focuses on the ongoing debate regarding the definition of American identity, particularly its relevance to immigrants. It explores the challenges of integrating diverse cultural and religious backgrounds into a shared national identity, which often requires migrants to adapt and reshape their own values. The chapter examines the significance of the motto "E pluribus unum" ("From many, one") and its implications for the coexistence of various cultures within the American identity, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of multiculturalism.
Keywords
American identity, American exceptionalism, multiculturalism, nationalism, patriotism, immigration, assimilation, cultural identity, national unity, shared values, American Dream.
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What is the main topic of this language preview?
This preview provides a structured overview of a paper exploring the complexities of American identity in a multicultural society. It examines the historical evolution of "American-ness," the role of myths like American exceptionalism, the challenges of multiculturalism, and the pursuit of a unified national identity.
What are the key themes explored in the paper?
The key themes include the evolution of American identity throughout history; the role of American exceptionalism; the complexities of multiculturalism and its relationship to national identity; the tension between shared values and diverse cultural backgrounds; and the challenges of achieving unity in a diverse nation.
What does the Table of Contents include?
The Table of Contents covers an Introduction, Myths of an American Identity, American Idealism & Citizenship, Multicultural Identities, The Fear of a Multicultural Identity, and a Conclusion.
What are the chapter summaries highlighting?
The summaries detail the introduction's establishment of the central question about what it means to be American; the exploration of the historical development of "American character" and its shift from race-based to culturally defined identity; the focus on the ongoing debate regarding the definition of American identity, particularly its relevance to immigrants; and the significance of integrating diverse backgrounds into a shared national identity.
What is the objective of the paper?
The paper aims to investigate whether a shared national identity is achievable in a multicultural society by examining the historical evolution of the concept of "American-ness" and analyzing the role of myths and the challenges of integrating immigrants.
What are the key words associated with this paper?
Key words include American identity, American exceptionalism, multiculturalism, nationalism, patriotism, immigration, assimilation, cultural identity, national unity, shared values, and the American Dream.
What is the overall approach of the paper?
The paper takes a comprehensive approach, analyzing the historical, cultural, and social factors that shape American identity, acknowledging the complexities and tensions inherent in creating a unified national identity within a multicultural context.
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The intended audience appears to be academics or researchers interested in the study of American identity, multiculturalism, and national identity formation.
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This preview offers a comprehensive overview of the paper's contents, including the table of contents, objectives, key themes, chapter summaries, and keywords. It is designed to give a reader a clear understanding of the paper's scope and content before reading the full text.
- Quote paper
- Amira Karam (Author), 2018, Who is american? A definition of American Identity, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/464545
