The myth of the "American Dream" continues to drive the societal assumptions that celebrate social mobility and merit-based achievement. In reality there is little evidence that supports this pervasive belief, yet it is overwhelmingly glorified by the media with films like "The Pursuit of Happiness" and the "rags to riches" rhymes from rappers like Jay-Z. The myth comes to life in our history books, in fact disempowering youth of color by exacerbating the idea that there are no real societal strains that are preventing minorities from climbing social ladders- that the people that live in their neighborhood are in fact responsible for the poverty and complacence that defines their culture. This assertion is disguised as an empowering and egalitarian idea and actually maintains the socioeconomic stratifications that prevent such mobility from coming to fruition. The myth of the American dream represents an example of hegemony, because it shows how media can create a consensus surrounding a particular issue that is perpetuated by a sentiment of "common sense."
Hegemony exemplifies the reciprocal relationship between media and society from the perspective of those with power. An idea that can be harnessed through logical fallacy can easily become accepted by the broader public. Through deception assumptions arise.
George Carlin puts it well in this clip. He ends it with "the American Dream is only possible when you're asleep."
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