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
1. Introduction
2. Myth of an American Identity
3. American Idealism and Citizenship
4. Multicultural Identities
5. The Fear of a Multicultural Identity
6. Conclusion
Research Objectives and Core Themes
This paper examines the evolving definition of American identity and investigates whether multiculturalism serves as a legitimate threat to national cohesion or as a pathway toward a more inclusive society. It explores the historical intersection of citizenship, race, and exceptionalism, seeking to determine how diverse populations can reconcile their cultural backgrounds with the American "melting pot" ideal.
- Historical evolution of American Exceptionalism and its impact on national identity.
- The tension between assimilationist demands and the reality of a diverse, multicultural society.
- Analysis of citizenship policies, including birthright citizenship and the legal stratification of belonging.
- Examination of the "thorns" of multiculturalism, specifically immigration, bilingualism, and racial disparities.
- The role of the American Dream in defining national belonging and individual success.
Excerpt from the Book
5. The Fear of a Multicultural American Identity
Many scholars argue that the fear of multiculturalism results from many factors. One of these factors may be the media as it portrays a vast ethnic diversity and therefor heightens the public’s awareness of America’s diversity. Many Americans developed a sense of an unjustly treatment considering governmental bilingual programs and policies as it gives an impression of a preference of people with diverse cultural backgrounds. However, anti-immigration groups, non-integrationist, and “literary anthologies that downplay ‘DWMs’ (dead White males) or else Western civilization, and heavily emphasize women, people of color, and non-Western civilization” pose the biggest threat to the concept of multiculturalism. Especially, whites feel whites may feel offended by political correctness, as they feel restricted in their freedom of speech (Parillo, 148)
In his book Umbrellas of Multiculturalism Vincent Parillo describes the “thorns” of multiculturalism as primarily immigration, language, culture, and race, which many Americans see as a threat to their society. Since 1997 more than 24 million immigrants arrived to the United States, which resulted in many Americans thinking that there are too many immigrants allowed into the States.
“Their opposition rests on their belief that immigrants either take jobs away from Americans, often from poor people who are forced onto welfare, or else go on welfare themselves. Either way, these groups insist, the immigrants drive up social welfare costs. Other arguments include the assertion that immigrants strain law enforcement resources, contribute to an overpopulation problem through their higher birth rates, and deplete our natural resources” (Parillo, p. 154).
Summary of Chapters
1. Introduction: This chapter introduces the ongoing academic debate surrounding national identification and the central question of what constitutes an "American" identity.
2. Myth of an American Identity: This section explores how American Exceptionalism and the "American Creed" were constructed as nationalist myths to distance the new nation from European history.
3. American Idealism and Citizenship: This chapter analyzes the role of republicanism and citizenship in creating a unified national community based on shared values rather than shared ethnicity.
4. Multicultural Identities: This part investigates the conflict between birthright citizenship and political pressures to assimilate, highlighting the ongoing debate regarding multicultural ideology.
5. The Fear of a Multicultural Identity: This chapter discusses the perceived threats that immigration, language diversity, and race pose to the traditional concept of American society.
6. Conclusion: The concluding chapter summarizes that American identity is a fluid concept and suggests that embracing multiculturalism could enrich the nation rather than destroy its core values.
Keywords
American Identity, Multiculturalism, American Exceptionalism, Citizenship, Assimilation, American Dream, Nationalism, Immigration, Republicanism, Cultural Diversity, Identity Politics, Social Cohesion, Race Relations, Integration, American Creed
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the central focus of this research paper?
The paper explores the complexities of American identity, specifically investigating whether multiculturalism poses a threat to the nation's traditional values or serves as a necessary evolution for modern American society.
What are the primary thematic areas addressed in the work?
Key themes include the historical construction of American Exceptionalism, the role of citizenship in defining the "American," the ideological impact of multiculturalism, and the societal fears surrounding immigration and linguistic diversity.
What is the primary research question?
The author seeks to answer whether it is possible for immigrants with diverse cultural backgrounds to fully acquire an American identity, and whether multiculturalism is a threat to that identity.
Which scientific methods are utilized?
The research relies on a comprehensive literature review, drawing from historical analysis, political theory, and sociological studies to evaluate public opinion and academic discourse regarding national identity.
What is covered in the main body of the text?
The main body examines the historical myths of American identity, the function of citizenship as an instrument of both inclusion and exclusion, and the specific "thorns" of the multiculturalism debate, such as race and language.
Which keywords best characterize this work?
Core keywords include American Identity, Multiculturalism, Assimilation, Citizenship, and American Exceptionalism.
How does the author define the "American Dream" within the text?
The author describes it as an ideological function that bridges the gap between lived reality and the myth of exceptionalism, emphasizing themes of individualism, upward mobility, and the pursuit of happiness.
What role does bilingualism play in the debate described?
Bilingualism is often viewed by conservative groups as a "thorn" that undermines the American way of life, whereas proponents argue it represents cultural enrichment and social necessity.
What is the distinction between "hard" and "soft" multiculturalism according to the text?
Hard multiculturalism emphasizes ethnic particularity as the primary basis for identity, while soft multiculturalism advocates for a framework that supports cultural diversity within a liberal, egalitarian society.
What conclusion does the author reach regarding the future of American identity?
The author concludes that American identity is not a static concept but one that should evolve; rejecting multiculturalism risks ignoring the nation's diverse past, whereas accepting it could lead to a more inclusive, enriched American nation.
- Quote paper
- Amira Karam (Author), 2018, Who is american? A definition of American Identity, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/464545
