The Assumptions of Americans

            Gary Althen in his chapter “American Values and Assumptions” highlights American values and how they differ from those of other countries. I have lived in America my entire life, only travelling out of the country once, and I found that all the values Althen highlighted were apparent in American society, to a certain extent. No matter what, these American values established with the birth of this nation have persevered, despite wars, protests, and changes throughout the country.

            One American value Althen touched upon, time, seemed to be speaking to me directly. As a freshman at San Diego State University I am majoring in Hospitality with an emphasis in Meetings and Events. With this degree I hope to plan events, particularly weddings. Many people ask how I stumbled upon this choice for degree, because it is so specific and uncommon. Honestly, my answer is because I like to organize things. Since elementary school I have always been someone who would plan out my days, from what I was going to wear, to what I was going to eat, to how long I would have to do my homework. My goal has always been to get as much done in as little time as possible. Essentially, my goal has always been to be efficient. After many years of practice, I must say I’m pretty good at it. I, like many other Americans, view time as money. I do believe that “the future will not be better than the past or the present unless people use their time for constructive, future-oriented activities” (Althen, 10). I am always planning my next move, day, or weekend. Personally, planning helps me in the long run, whether it be me waking up 10 minutes later or not having to worry that I turn an assignment in by 11:59. I have two daily planners to help me plan my days, helping me prepare for the future, resulting in more success overall. I believe that American society, along with the way I was raised, has caused me give time so much value, perhaps more than it deserves.

            Another key point Althen touched upon was American materialism. Materialism is a common theme in America, the idea that things that can be quantified by a number are desirable. Generally, the higher the number, or price, the more desirable. I’ll admit, I am attracted to material objects and find myself thinking from time to time about that new pair of shoes. However, I believe in today’s world, Americans are learning to become less materialistic, and more focused on an experience. Due to social media and the internet, we are constantly receiving notifications on what others are doing, where they’re doing it, and who they’re with. Although this may trigger our wants for material goods, it also gives us an idea of where we might want to go. For example, I have a friend that posted multiple pictures of her in Thailand over the summer, hiking in the jungle, scuba diving, and riding elephants. Previously, I did not know much about Thailand, what activities were there, or (sadly) where it was on the map. However, she has inspired me to visit there one day, and now I am saving my money on a trip to Thailand rather than a new pair of shoes. Now, the experience we want does not have to be as big as Thailand, but this was just an example of something that was not considered a material good. These experiences we get out of travelling to places, trying new things, and learning about other cultures are becoming more and more popular than just a good that is quantified by a number. I still believe Althen was right, Americans are naturally materialistic people, but in todays world Americans are growing to become more than just someone who thinks about the price tag.