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The Melting Pot Mythology

Many people contend that the multi-racial, multi-ethnic character of America, a nation of immigrants from its very beginning, has created a "melting pot" in which diverse peoples are equally acculturated, assimilated, and advanced (Johnson, 1997). This ethos or definition of American culture has been accepted by many as a form of "conventional wisdom," supported by the experiences of diverse groups as they become integrated into a uniquely "American" culture. Eric Foner (1998) noted that racial, ethnic, linguistic, socio-economic and ideological divides are being overcome daily in the United States as people turn away from old stereotypes and gain greater understanding of one another. As a "land of opportunity," America offers all how come to the country similar opportunities and challenges. It is this that makes the country a "melting pot" because all people can pursue their dreams and achieve parity at the polls, in the markets, and in society as a whole.

The melting pot image suggests that often very significant differences between peoples can disappear over time, creating a relatively homogenous society with respect to certain values, norms and beliefs. The American society, political system and economy offer all people (and not a selected few) the opportunity to benefit from the American dream. A "melting pot" does not necessarily imply that cultural diversity vanishes; it suggests that cultural biases are likely to ebb over time.

Social psychologists such as Baron and Byrne (2000) argue that a democratic society ensures that all men are created equal. Equality under the law is a fundamental tenet of the American democratic system which is reflected in universal suffrage, a free public education, and programs designed to ensure that the most disadvantaged members of society are able to maximize their achievements through education and training. Johnson (1997) suggests that American democrati

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The Melting Pot Mythology. (1969, December 31). In LotsofEssays.com. Retrieved 04:59, March 29, 2024, from https://www.lotsofessays.com/viewpaper/1693351.html