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Ambition Quote by Margaret Mead

“People in America, of course, live in all sorts of fashions, because they are foreigners, or unlucky, or depraved, or without ambition; people live like that, but Americans live in white detached houses with green shutters. Rigidly, blindly, the dream takes precedence.” quote by Margaret Mead
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“People in America, of course, live in all sorts of fashions, because they are foreigners, or unlucky, or depraved, or without ambition; people live like that, but Americans live in white detached houses with green shutters. Rigidly, blindly, the dream takes precedence.”

Margaret Mead

About This Quote

Source Essay: Coming of Age in Samoa, Margaret Mead, 1928

American housing ideals emphasize uniformity and material success, often at the expense of individuality and deeper values.

In simple terms: Americans favor uniform suburban homes over diverse living styles.

Key Takeaway

Question personal values over societal expectations.

Themes

conformity materialism identity American Dream social pressure

Mood

reflective critical observational

Type

philosophical social commentary

When to use this quote

  • urban planning
  • home buying decisions
  • social critique
  • personal lifestyle choices

Key Concepts

cultural homogenization consumerism status symbols

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does housing shape personal identity?
  • What alternatives to uniform suburbs exist?
A Different Perspective

Overlooks regional and socioeconomic diversity within America.

3.8 out of 5 (10 ratings)

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