美国社会文化第四章课件.pptVIP

Chapter 4 Traditional American values and beliefs The United States probably has a great diversity John Zogby, an American pollster who surveys public opinion, say that what holds the United States together is that “we all share a common set of values that made us American…We are defined by the rights we have…Our rights are our history, why the first European setters came here and why millions more have come here since.” Roger Williams(1603-1683)， Clergyman, advocate of religious freedom, and founder of Rhode Island born in London. He early espoused (支持) Puritanism and emigrated to the Massachusetts Bay Company in 1631. He believed that governments should have no connection to a church. Separation of church and state became one of the most important governing ideas in America. Often adult children return home to live with their parents because of economic conditions or a failed marriage. Parents are usually happy to help out, but most members of the family expect this to be a short-term arrangement. When people are dependent, they risk losing freedom and they may also lose the respect of their peers. Even if they are not truly self-reliant, most Americans believe they must at least appear to be so. In order to be in the mainstream of American life – to have power and/or respect – individuals must be seen as self-reliant. Although Americans provide a lot of financial support to people in need through charities or government programs, they expect that help to be short-lived. Eventually, people should take care of themselves. Although receiving financial support from charity, family, or government is allowed, it is generally not admired. Some people believe that such individuals are setting a bad example, which may weaken the American character as a whole. The sight of beggars on city streets and the plight of the homeless may inspire sympathy but also concern, for the same reason. Coming to America 来到美国 An African prince goes to Queens, New York, to find a wife w