The Way We'll Be: The Zogby Report on the Transformation of the American Dream eBook edition
Perhaps it is the result of growing up as an expat, but I have always had a fascination with American society and social systems. When I heard about this book at Book Expo, I knew it was a "must read." And now, I have just finished it.
Some of the info is fascinating, some of it verifies my opinions and makes me feel smart, some of it made me feel like I was slogging through, just to finish.
This is a book well worth investing in. I am not sure it is one to read the way I did -- linearly from cover to cover. It is probably better read in fits and starts as the spirit moves you.
I am by nature an optimist, although my views have been tempered by reality over the years. Zogby seems to be all optimist. And for the most part paints a much rosier picture of the future than I the one I see.
I like the idea that the generation coming up will change America and American politics. Because of their beliefs Americans will become more tolerant, authentic and informed. I like the idea that we will become more cohesive, agreeable, rational and global in our thinking.
Maybe it is all true, I hope so; but I wonder if human nature is really going to undergo that profound change within a generation. I guess only time will tell!
Interesting and well worth the time and money to investigate!
Here is what the publisher says:
According to super pollster John Zogby, whom The Washington Post calls “the maverick predictor,” the conventional wisdom about the United States–that we’re isolated from the world, politically fragmented, and inclined toward material pleasure–isn’t just flawed; it may be 180 degrees from the truth.
In this far-reaching and illuminating look at contemporary American life, Zogby reveals nothing less than The Way We’ll Be. Drawing on thousands of in-depth surveys conducted especially for the book, Zogby points out where we’re headed–politically, culturally, and spiritually.
The American dream is in transition; it is rapidly being redefined by four meta-movements: living with limits as consumers and citizens; embracing diversity of views and ways of life; looking inward to find spiritual comfort; and demanding authenticity from the media, our leaders, and leading institutions.
Spearheaded by today’s eighteen-to-twenty-nine-year-olds–the “First Global” generation–Americans are becoming more internationalist, consensus-oriented, and environmentally conscious and less willing to identify themselves by the things they do to earn or spend their money. But this is more than a youth tide. Americans of all ages are moving beyond old divides–red state/blue state, pro-life/pro-choice, beer drinker/wine connoisseur–to form a new national consensus that will shape the nation for decades to come. Zogby’s cogent analysis of the data yields an astonishing perspective on Americans’ thoughts, feelings, and beliefs, now and in coming years.
Understanding this emerging reality will be key for
- leaders in all fields who want to reach audiences that are more media-savvy, better informed, and more technologically enabled than ever before
- individuals in search of rewarding and fulfilling careers in tomorrow’s growth fields
- politicians and CEOs looking to marry policies and practices to the rising demand for social responsibility
- anyone who wants to market to the emerging new American consensus
Beyond telling a fascinating story, the conclusions in this book are a must-read for everyone from Main Street to Madison Avenue to Capitol Hill. Filled with expert analysis and insight from one of today’s most successful predictors and trend spotters, The Way We’ll Be will redefine how we view America’s future.
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