American Culture 2 - Group 1

Name: Dam Thi Thao

Code: 21F7510923

FINAL TEST AMERICAN CULTURE 2

American culture is complex, it is a woven-set-of-values, traditions and ideals from all

walks of life. American culture has been shaped by this individualism like Americans
Macho Heroes to the Keep-on optimism of the Can-Do culture to a great extent. While
these values can sometimes be taken to extremes, they also play a crucial role in driving
the country's progress. However, beneath these ideals lies a complex web of challenges.
This essay delves into three of these prominent themes: (1) American Macho Heroes –
evaluating their influence on social norms while still considering their positive and
negative facets, (2) The Can-Do Spirit – exploring its power and studying its boundaries,
and (3) Challenges to Individual Freedom and Self-Reliance – delving into factors that
can limit these American essentials. Through the deconstruction of these notions, we
develop a more intimate sense of Americanculture: the negotiation between the biases
and the realities.
I. American Macho Heroes
1. Define and Analyze of the “American Macho Heroes”
1.1 Define
The concept of the American macho hero is deeply embedded in American culture. These
characters are typically portrayed as rugged individualists, strong, silent types who solve
problems through physical prowess and unwavering courage. They are often hyper-
masculine, unemotional, and prioritize action over introspection. Additionally, from what
I have learned in Chapter 4 of American Culture 2 and on some other websites, the
American macho heroes on television and in the movies are the ones with big guns and
physical violence that are being used to show their masculinity. He is a male whose

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individuality is respected and he is a role model that uses his physical force or fighting by
hand and holding guns instead of using his words to make a world better. All young boys
want to be like the American macho hero who takes matters into his own hands. The
American macho heroes we see today is Captain America, the movie character. currently
we also have female protagonists with macho characters like Katniss Everdeen who
compete in the hunger games with only bow and arrow. In the past America you didn't
observe any female tough characters, but it is no longer the case. However, this
stereotype can be problematic for several reasons. It creates unrealistic expectations of
masculinity, limiting the ways men can express themselves. It can also lead to social
pressures around violence and stoicism, discouraging men from seeking help or showing
vulnerability.
1.2. Analyze
The American Macho Hero's roots lie in the nation's frontier experience. Figures like
Daniel Boone and Davy Crockett embodied the self-reliance, courage, and survival skills
needed to tame the wilderness. These early heroes laid the groundwork for the archetype,
emphasizing strength, independence, and a conquering spirit. As America transformed
from an agrarian to an industrial and urbanized society, the Macho Hero adapted.
Characters like the hardboiled detective and the tough cop emerged in film noir,
reflecting the fight against urban corruption and moral decay. World Wars and the Cold
War saw a rise in patriotic heroes, with soldiers and figures like James Bond representing
national pride and courage in the face of external threats.
The American Macho Hero has significantly influenced traditional masculinity. Traits like
toughness, emotional restraint, and dominance have been celebrated as the standard for
men. These heroes often embody core American values like freedom, justice, and
individualism, connecting heroism with national loyalty. Media has further cemented this
image, with Westerns, action films, and comic books repeatedly showcasing the Macho
Hero as a cultural icon. There's no denying the allure of the American Macho Hero. They
embody core American values like self-reliance, strength, and the indomitable spirit that
conquers adversity. Characters like John Wayne's Ethan Edwards in "The Searchers" or

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Clint Eastwood's stoic Man with No Name evoke a sense of national identity, reminding
us of the pioneering spirit and unwavering determination that shaped the nation. They are
figures of empowerment, providing thrilling escapism and catharsis as they vanquish
villains and overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. Furthermore, these heroes can
serve as powerful role models, especially for young men. They showcase virtues like
perseverance, leadership, and taking responsibility. From facing down outlaws to
defending their principles, they inspire viewers to stand up for what they believe in and
strive to achieve their goals.
However, the American Macho Hero is not without its drawbacks. The archetype presents
a narrow and often unrealistic definition of masculinity, one that excludes men who don't
conform to the hyper-masculine ideal. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and social
pressure to suppress emotions and prioritize physical prowess over vulnerability. The
constant portrayal of the "lone wolf" mentality can also discourage men from seeking
support or building strong social connections, potentially leading to isolation and
loneliness. Perhaps the most concerning consequence is the potential for emotional
disconnect. The emphasis on stoicism discourages men from expressing emotions or
seeking help, hindering healthy emotional development and contributing to mental health
issues. The constant barrage of violence often presented as the solution to problems can
desensitize viewers, create unrealistic expectations of conflict resolution, and even glorify
violence in real life.
2. Discuss and Reflect
2.1 Discussion and give personal opinion, comments of "American Macho Heroes"
in American Culture
The American Macho Hero like a Double-Edged Sword. American Macho Heroes have
been a mainstay in American Culture, offering entertainment, national identity, and even
role models. However, as much as I appreciate their portrayal of strength and
determination, I can't help but feel the archetype is due for a refresh.
In my view, the American macho hero archetype has both positive and negative aspects.
On the positive side, these heroes can inspire courage and resilience. They represent the

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ideal of standing up against adversity, often protecting the vulnerable and fighting for
justice. For many, these figures serve as role models, illustrating the virtues of bravery
and determination.
However, the archetype also has significant downsides. The emphasis on physical
strength and emotional restraint can promote a limited and sometimes unhealthy view of
masculinity. This portrayal often sidelines other valuable traits such as empathy,
vulnerability, and collaborative problem-solving. Moreover, the glorification of
independence can undermine the importance of community and interdependence, which
are crucial for a healthy society.
2.2 Criticism
The American Macho Hero archetype, while undeniably captivating, presents some
drawbacks. Firstly, it can contribute to toxic masculinity. By promoting the idea that men
must be tough, unemotional, and dominant, it creates pressure on young boys to conform
to these unrealistic standards. This can be damaging to their emotional well-being and
limit their ability to express themselves fully. Secondly, these heroes often lack diversity.
Typically portrayed as white and male, they fail to represent the rich tapestry of American
society. This marginalizes other groups and excludes their experiences from the narrative.
Finally, the simplistic black-and-white morality associated with these heroes can be
misleading. Real-life situations often involve complex ethical dilemmas that require
nuanced and empathetic approaches, far removed from the straightforward, often violent
solutions presented by these characters.
2.3. Contacting Myself
American Macho Heroes have always held a fascinating position in my mind. On one
hand, I can't deny their undeniable coolness. There's something undeniably thrilling about
watching a lone wolf like Clint Eastwood's characters stare down danger with a steely
gaze. They represent a sense of power, confidence, and the ability to overcome any
obstacle. Although I am a female, these heroes fueled my childhood fantasies of
adventure and instilled a sense of 'can-do' spirit in me and my friends. But as I've grown
older, I've become increasingly critical of the limitations of this archetype. The pressure

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to conform to such a narrow definition of masculinity feels suffocating. It excludes men
who don't fit the mold, and the constant emphasis on stoicism can be emotionally
unhealthy. Honestly, the idea of bottling up emotions all the time seems exhausting!
Personally, I wouldn't want to live that way, and I wouldn't want anyone else to feel
pressured to either. The glorification of violence is another aspect that bothers me. While
action sequences can be fun, the constant portrayal of violence as the answer to
everything feels unrealistic and potentially harmful. There are so many other ways to
resolve conflict, and I would love to see more heroes who demonstrate that strength can
come from communication and collaboration just as much as physical prowess.
II. The Can – Do Spirit
1. Define and Analyze of the “Can – Do Spirit”
1.1 Define
The "can-do" spirit is a cherished American value emphasizing optimism, initiative, and
the belief that anything is possible with hard work and determination. This spirit has been
a driving force behind American innovation, economic growth, and national identity.
However, the can-do spirit can also have downsides. It can lead to an underestimation of
challenges, overlooking potential risks or unforeseen consequences. It can also
contribute to a culture of overwork and burnout, neglecting the importance of rest and
well-being.
1.2. Analyze
The historical roots of the "Can-Do Spirit" can be traced back to the frontier experience,
where self-reliance and resourcefulness were essential for survival. The rise of the
Protestant Work Ethic emphasized the importance of hard work, diligence, and individual
achievement, reinforcing the "Can-Do Spirit". Aditionally the "American Dream" – the
belief that anyone can achieve success through hard work and perseverance – is closely
linked to the "Can-Do Spirit". By analyzing both the positive and negative aspects of the
"Can-Do Spirit", we gain a deeper understanding of its impact on American culture and
can work towards fostering a more nuanced and sustainable approach to achieving goals.

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The "Can-Do Spirit" acts as a double-edged sword in American culture. On the positive
side, it fosters a culture of innovation and problem-solving, constantly pushing
Americans to seek new and improved methods. This relentless pursuit has led to
groundbreaking advancements in technology, medicine, and countless other fields.
Additionally, this spirit fuels entrepreneurship, encouraging individuals to take risks and
build successful businesses, which significantly contributes to economic growth and
prosperity. Furthermore, the "Can-Do Spirit" fosters resilience in the face of adversity. It
empowers people with a "never-say-die" attitude, allowing them to overcome obstacles
and bounce back from setbacks.
However, this unwavering optimism can also have drawbacks. The emphasis on constant
achievement can lead to underestimating risks or overlooking potential dangers. This can
have consequences across various areas, from reckless financial ventures to neglecting
safety protocols. Furthermore, the pressure to constantly achieve and improve can
contribute to a culture of overwork and burnout. This relentless striving can neglect the
importance of rest, emotional well-being, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Finally, the "Can-Do Spirit" narrative can sometimes downplay the role of systemic
factors like access to resources and opportunities. Not everyone faces a level playing
field, and it's crucial to acknowledge and address these inequalities to ensure everyone
has a fair shot at success.
2. Discuss and Reflect
2.1 Discussion and give personal opinion, comments of the "Can-Do Spirit" in
American Culture
The "Can-Do Spirit" is a strong cultural trait of America; it represents the American core
values of hope, courage, and the readiness of action when facing obstacles. Such an
outlook is rooted in the history of the development of the American frontier, the industrial
revolution and national accomplishments such as the space race. It remains an idolization
in multiple realms beyond business such as in startup-ups and mainstream culture.
In my opinion, the American culture's "Can-Do Spirit" is a phenomenon which should be
examined as this national attribute separate it from other nations. It shows the confidence

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in actually achieving the goal and the attribution of triumph to both individual and
collective dedication. It is spirit that lies behind the fact that no one thing can be
attributed for having brought with it such spectacular breakthrough. The process gets
people to assume responsibility and think out-of-the-box with grit to solve complex
situations that will strengthen their confidence and at their heart.
However, Can-do attitude has many advantages it has some obvious limitations. The
unbalanced balance between individuals and societies may underlie the problem of self-
reliance highlighting the importance of individual efforts while ignoring community
support and collaboration. Also, such thinking may be accompanied by setting unrealistic
expectations which can eventually, causes extra pressure on only one to succeed without
realizing any possible systemic barriers that may hinder one’s progress.
2.2 Criticism
While the "Can-Do Spirit" which glorifies individual will power, this emphasis could
involve unwanted consequences. First off, the rating of individual accomplishment could
lower the teamwork and community support given the insurance. Here lies a dilemma
that might be a breeding ground for a mental health culture, in which individuals suffer
from the feeling of having to encounter problems alone and face possible alienation and
exhaustion. Similarly, the idea that a person can succeed if they work hard can sometimes
ignore existing systematic obstacles which many deal with. This makes the role of other
factors, such as socioeconomic status and resources, be called into question, propagating
inequality by suggesting that economic hardship notably could have been caused by lack
of effort. Lastly, relentless commitment to the pursuit of success adds to the pressure that
may result in stress, anxiety and sometimes able to create mental health issues. A
counterproductive effect of this assertiveness on the other hand can be apprehension
about failure which may lead many people to refrain from taking risks and try out
unconventional avenues that would in turn advance new things and personal
development.
2.3. Contacting Myself

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I can say from my personal experience that I was confronted by both negative and
positive aspects of the "Can-Do Spirit". Through this experience, I have learned to set
high and challenging goals and not give up in front of troubles. The notion that
perseverance, skill and ingenuity can overcome all obstacles is just phenomenal.
Nevertheless, there have been times that I have been under immense pressure to
consistently reach for the personal summit. Finding the right balance between this inner
power and understanding my limits, as well as seeking help when needed, has become the
hallmark of my mental health management.
III. Challenges to Individual Freedom and Self-Reliance
1. Define and Analyze of the “Challenges to Individual Freedom and Self-Reliance”
1.2 Define
Challenges to Individual Freedom and Self-Reliance in American culture refer to the
various obstacles that hinder individuals from exercising their personal liberties and
achieving self-sufficiency. These challenges can stem from economic, social, political,
technological, and health-related factors that limit one's ability to make independent
choices, secure necessary resources, and live autonomously.
1.2. Analyze
The ideals of self-reliance and individual freedom form the basis of American culture,
becoming the personification of freedom and self-reliance in the American identity.
However, the reality is often more complex, with numerous challenges hindering these
cherished values. Here, I will delve into some of the most significant obstacles.
The first challenge is economic inequality which includes unbalanced distribution of
wealth, income, and resources among different social groups, that indeed undermine
individual freedom and self-reliance in the United States. This gap causes the trickle
effect and limits the number of opportunities. Expensive educational faculties and
programs stop people with low income from learning skills and getting better at their
careers. The process frequently sustains a cycle of poverty as the resources’ scarcity
makes the departure from the existing situation quite difficult. Additionally, an unfair
distribution of quality healthcare further exacerbates the health inequalities. Failing

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people financially might not allow them to access preventive care or essential treatments
which in turn affects their morbidity, and productivity as a result. Consequently, they
become unable to work and earn their own living. At the top of the concerns is the
continuously growing income inequality. The wealth disparities among a small group of
elites decrease the mobility potential, making it harder and harder for people to elevate
their social ranks. This reduces the freedom of a majority to work towards their own
dreams and aspirations, thus leading to a kind of society where success is ordained only
by the birth of a person. A principal example of this problem is the student debt crisis.
The heavy debt rates keep the graduates in financial challenge and they cannot access
their economic freedom and their ability to be independent.
The second type of obstacle is systemic discrimination which means uneven practices and
laws that marginalize people of color, women, ethnic groups, or the LGBTQ+ community
in America. This discrimination shows up in different forms, restricting access and
slowing progress. Discriminatory hiring practices and prejudiced workplace cultures
disenfranchise marginalized groups from job opportunities and career advancement.
Consequently, it threatens their economic self-reliance and planning for the future. The
educational system also reflects these inequities. Unequal allocation of funds and
resources in various school communities result in unequal learning environments.
Disadvantaged students are often denied the right to quality education, which affects their
future possibilities and increases inequalities even more. In addition, these same biases
are found in the legal system and social system that worsen the freedom of these people.
Institutional racism and racially motivated profiling in the law enforcement profession
impact minorities more than others do. These practices restrict their freedom, reduce
possibilities for economic independence, cultivate a society where the path to a
successful life is not available to all equally. One of the clearest examples of this is the
cases of racial profiling and harsher sentencing for the minorities in the criminal justice
system. These policies have the most devastating effect on minorities, reducing their
options and potential for economic independence.

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Lastly, the government surveillance and privacy erosion becoming a major danger to the
freedom of the individual and their self-reliance. This includes the monitoring and data
collection of individuals' activities by state authorities, often justified by national security
concerns. While the government argues for its necessity, the impact on individual lives
can be significant. The sense of constant surveilledness can be too severe to be ignored,
and it might have a chilling effect on the freedom of opinions. It suffices to say that
including their conversations and internet activities in the tracking system will most
likely discourage people from going public against the idea and participating in political
activism. This is the case as it shrinks their space to exercise freedom and to be
effectively involved in democratic processes. On top of that, the ever increasing data
gathering provides basis for the issue of potential abuse of privacy. The mainrisk left by
the misuse or illicit access to this personal information is the destruction of autonomy and
individual security. Finally, widespread surveillance can erode trust in government
institutions. When citizens feel their privacy is constantly under attack, it discourages
civic engagement and individual participation in public life. This ultimately weakens the
very fabric of a democratic society. The revelations of mass surveillance programs by
agencies like the NSA serve as a stark example of these concerns. These programs
highlight the need for a careful balance between national security and the fundamental
right to privacy.
2. Discuss and Reflect
2.1 Discussion and give personal opinion, comments of the “Challenges to Individual
Freedom and Self-Reliance" in American Culture
As analyzed in section III.1.2, Challenges to Individual Freedom and Self-Reliance in
American Culture faces more challenges in reality. One of the basic challenges of
economic is inequality. It leads to unequal distribution of wealth and resources that in
turn spells the unfair playing field. In a situation where one hardly gets quality education,
decent healthcare and fair housing, it becomes a huge obstacle for some to reach their
maximum potential in life. The "American Dream" becomes a scornful illusion when
court-system restrictions extinguish all hopes to prosper. To get it worst, the systematic

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discrimination is another difficulty. Noticeable biases on the basis of race, ethnicity or
sexual orientation create obstacles in employment, education and justice system. The
historical processes that make up this system are deleterious in nature and exacerbate the
economic deprivation of the vulnerable, lowering their chances of getting on their feet
and taking charge of their economic welfare. An alarmingly hypocritical truth which the
high hopes of a meritocracy fail to fall in line with, hard work assuring achievement, is a
downfall.

These challenges are concerning, in my opinion. An American Dream is not supposed to

be for the few who have the privilege. It is only fair after all, that every person has an
equal chance to succeed in life, irrespective of their beginning. Self-reliance, therefore,
comes from the fact that a place should be the one to provide, not to take.
However, it must be noted that it is the historical one that we have to recognize. America
has come up with self-reliance which was born out of a period of defending individuals’
liberties. Yet, “individual” in this matter was not represented towards the entire society.
We should progress towards a mutualized concept of liberation and self-sufficiency since
everybody deserves an opportunity to prosper with the required help and resources.
2.2 Criticism
The American culture’s accentuated individualism may oftentimes be the reason why
such concepts as community and collective ownership are forgotten. Addressing these
challenges requires a multi-pronged approach, with policies that promote economic
equality, dismantle discriminatory practices, and protect individual privacy rights.
2.3. Contacting Myself
Thinking about these challenges makes me consider my own experiences. While I've
been fortunate to have education opportunities, I recognize that not everyone enjoys the
same level of privilege.

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