American middle class

While most Americans see themselves as middle class, the notion of the middle class both defines and is defined by America. The US was the first country where a large middle class emerged and truly enjoyed middle class lifestyles. In the US, being middle class does not just imply a particular financial state but a set of values, and even a way of life, that is assumed to be broadly shared, not only by members of the middle class, but by Americans in general. A strong work ethic, understanding the value of the dollar, striving for economic success and the promise for a better future for one’s children are the values which have made the huge American middle class possible. If the middle class in the US continues to whither away due to recession, constant unemployment, government policies that are not supportive of middle class Americans and that outsource jobs overseas, it will not just be formerly middle class Americans who will suffer, it will also be difficult for American society and democracy to hold together. A large and stable middle class has been central to America’s wealth and stability for decades; without this middle class the country’s future will be in great peril.

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