Harlon L. Dalton vs. Stephen Cruz

After reading the two passages of reading that were assigned to be read by Tuesday, October 6, and reading the story by Horatio Algier, clear differences were illustrated between the beliefs of Cruz, Algier and Dalton. It was made clear that Algier believed deeply in the American Dream and believed that good traits such as dedication, hard work and compassion for your fellow man would lead to achieving the America Dream. Many, however, would disagree with him, including Cruz, who at first believed in the American Dream and thought that he was succeeding due to his abilities but soon realized that many of his successes were due to his status as a minority. Dalton also disagreed with Algier, saying that the American Dream could not be realized most of the time due to three main reasons. The first was that Algier's stories went off the assumption that everyone was judged solely on their own merits. The second was the illusion in Algier's stories that everyone has the same opportunity to develope those merits, and the third was another assumption that "ultimately, merit will out (p. 279)." He believes that the illusion of the American Dream is harmful to society, which directly goes against Algiers beliefs. These three different opinions offer varying view points on the American Dream and its role in society.