Introduction
Articles by Krugman, Cox, Alm, and Dalmia reflect different points of view on the possibility of realizing the American dream. Krugman (62) raises the issue of declining social mobility in the US. As a result, the rich keep getting richer, while the poor keep getting poorer (Krugman 63). Thus, according to the author, the American dream is only a fantasy. On the contrary, Cox and Alm (64) and Dalmia (66) note that the dream has not expired, and citizens can realize it if they make a considerable effort.
Discussion
Of particular importance when writing various academic and scientific papers is the prevention of plagiarism. McCuen-Metherell and Winkler (444) affirm that writing a paper without using sources is impossible. Thus, it is crucial to format citations correctly to avoid plagiarism. It is necessary to determine which citation style will be used since the design of the citation depends on this. For example, in APA, inline references are indicated in the author-date format, while the MLA style uses the author-page format. Any words or ideas that are not one’s own but are taken from another article should be cited (McCuen-Metherell and Winkler 446). Quotations should be included when the author is referring to, summarizing, paraphrasing, or quoting an idea from another source. Thus, these guidelines will help prevent plagiarism.
Returning to the ideas of Krugman, Cox and Alm, and Dalmia, it seems necessary to highlight some aspects. Although the authors have different positions regarding realizing the American dream, it is impossible to disagree with some of their theses. Indeed, the reality is that modern American society is class-based, reinforced by government policies, as Krugman argues (63). Nevertheless, many opportunities open up before each person every day, and it depends on the activities of each whether the American dream becomes a reality or remains a fantasy. According to Cox and Alm (65), many Americans have become lazy and remain unemployed.
Conclusion
Therefore, if the people themselves do not make efforts to earn more and achieve better results, whether it is an increase in income or better living conditions, nothing in their lives will change. Moreover, Dalmia (67) confirms that in America, unlike other countries such as India, there are many tools for citizens to realize the American dream, including equal access to education and healthcare. Thus, achieving heights in life is possible, and many conditions have been created. It all depends on the motivation, interests, and aspirations of everyone.
Works Cited
Cox, W. Michael, and Richard Alm. “By our Own Bootstraps.” Readings for Writers, 15th ed., edited by Jo Ray McCuen-Metherell and Anthony C. Winkler, Cengage Learning, 2016, pp. 64-66.
Dalmia, Shikha. “Long Live the American Dream.” Readings for Writers, 15th ed., edited by Jo Ray McCuen-Metherell and Anthony C. Winkler, Cengage Learning, 2016, pp. 66-69.
Krugman, Paul. “The Death of Horatio Alger.” Readings for Writers, 15th ed., edited by Jo Ray McCuen-Metherell and Anthony C. Winkler, Cengage Learning, 2016, pp. 62-64.
McCuen-Metherell, Jo Ray, and Anthony C. Winkler. Readings for Writers. 15th ed., Cengage Learning, 2016.