In this compelling book, well-known social psychologist David G. Myers asks why in an era of great material wealth America suffers from such a disturbing array of social problems that reflect a deep spiritual poverty. Examining the research on social ills from the 1960s through the 1990s, Myers concludes that materialism and radical individualism have cost us dearly. He offers positive, well-reasoned advice on how to spark social renewal and dream a new American dream.
In this compelling book, well-known social psychologist David G. Myers asks why in an era of great material wealth America suffers from such a disturbing array of social problems that reflect a deep spiritual poverty. Examining the research on social ills from the 1960s through the 1990s, Myers concludes that materialism and radical individualism have cost us dearly. He offers positive, well-reasoned advice on how to spark social renewal and dream a new American dream.
David G. Myers is John Dirk Werkman Professor of Psychology at Hope College.
"A call to action, an exhortation to hope, this book is clearly required reading for the concerned citizen." Choice "A remarkable book: combines the findings of social sciences with good sense, better yet - with keen moral judgment. Well written by an outstanding social psychologist." Amitai Etzioni, author of The Spirit of Community "A new millennium calls for a new vision of America. We have had enough blatant materialism, too much selfish sexism that makes a mockery of marriage and family. The American Paradox gives us such a new vision of America and we would do well to read it seriously. As the good book says: 'Without vision the people perish.' Theodore M. Hesburgh, President Emeritus, University of Notre Dame "The American Paradox will deepen family therapists' commitment to help families think through their relationship to the broader culture and make sound decisions about time and money, shopping and media." Mary Pipher, Networker
"A call to action, an exhortation to hope, this book is clearly required reading for the concerned citizen." Choice "A remarkable book: combines the findings of social sciences with good sense, better yet - with keen moral judgment. Well written by an outstanding social psychologist." Amitai Etzioni, author of The Spirit of Community "A new millennium calls for a new vision of America. We have had enough blatant materialism, too much selfish sexism that makes a mockery of marriage and family. The American Paradox gives us such a new vision of America and we would do well to read it seriously. As the good book says: 'Without vision the people perish.' Theodore M. Hesburgh, President Emeritus, University of Notre Dame "The American Paradox will deepen family therapists' commitment to help families think through their relationship to the broader culture and make sound decisions about time and money, shopping and media." Mary Pipher, Networker
According to social psychologist Myers, the "American Paradox" is that while many Americans enjoy unparalleled prosperity and the benefits of incomparable technological advances, the American social fabric appears to be unraveling. As culprits of our social malaise, Myers pinpoints economic individualism, income inequality, a breakdown of the family structure, a decrease in sexual fidelity, and the erosion of religious faith. He documents his arguments by using conclusions he reached in a previous study (The Pursuit of Happiness, Avon, 1993) and by referring to numerous more current studies, surveys, and public opinion polls. Myers also suggests some politically correct remedies (such as tax code reform; media self-regulation; more parental involvement). Despite overgeneralizations, this is a wide-ranging, well-written critique that argues that Americans need to regain a communitarian connection to one another and to rebuild the institutions (government, marriage, religion) that Myers believes are historically responsible for maintaining America's social cohesion and for satisfying the spiritual needs of its citizens. For larger public libraries.DJack Forman, Mesa Coll. Lib., San Diego Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.
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