America's defining selling point is the American dream—defined as “a happy way of living that is thought of by many Americans as something that can be achieved by anyone in the U.S. especially by working hard and becoming successful.” This ethos of America makes the country out to be an optimistic...

“Nomadland” captures the ache of financial ruin many experienced in 2011 by documenting one woman’s story of escape, hardship and loss as she uses her husband's death to launch her new means of living.  Leaving behind her life as a substitute teacher, Fern packs a few pieces of clothing, the...

Growing up, the younger generation was encouraged by the idea that they only need to pull themselves up by their bootstraps to achieve their dreams, just as their parents did. They became the most educated generation, with 39% of millennials holding a bachelor’s degree, and entered the workforce with...