Discussion topic #1: Kennedy’s time in office was referred to as the “Camelot Years” since it was a short period of great optimism and cultural hope. 1960s America also saw a rise in consumerism with an emphasis on material wealth and consumption. But, in recent years, America’s consumer culture and the idea of the “American Dream” has come under examination.

• How would you define the “American Dream” in the new millennium? Is the “American Dream” in the new millennium different than the “American Dream” in the 1960s? How so? What factors have changed? Please support your ideas with examples from your own life as well as current events.

Do not forget to reference the ideas in your response to the course materials or other resources that you consulted to address this topic.