Changing American Families.

I am glad that we read this essay in conjunction with the essay from Coontz. I had stated in the 50’s essay that she failed to cite many of her sources for the statistics that she used, however, in this essay by Judy Root Aulette; “Changing American Families”, the exact opposites is the case. This was a great essay that explained some dominating characteristics of the social classes in this great melting pot we call America. I wasn’t as surprised to read the explanation on the upper class. Everything she states basically fits the profile that I had imagined it as it pertained to their lifestyle. It was interesting however the theme I found about their motivations. The upper class citizens paralleled an attitude similar to the one in the 50’s, about focusing purely on the family. The families name and reputation being their main focus and covering up misdeeds or sacrificing personal interest for the good of the family dominates the culture. As for the middle class the idea that they invest lineally rather than laterally was interesting. They like to amass wealth not to be able to share but rather for their personal use. Any gift giving or help is given only within the family. Working class families were motivated more by survival. Almost everything they did was to help secure their necessities. Motivated buy love and sharing among friends and family, not willing to sacrifice as much for the greater good but rather indulging in the simple pleasures in life.
The addition to how within these social groups race and ethnicity can influence major differences in behavior was very interesting. Noting how African American workers in the middle classes achieve success through their accomplishments is not only good for themselves or the family, but for all African Americans. Also, each races history and how they differ plays a large role on how they live their lives and how they stress a larger network or family and friends. At times this essay seemed to be overwhelming with all the statistical information and comparisons, however, it was very informative and was a great summation of ideas for those who would take a further interest and want to research more.