Freedom in 2012

The American Dream, as we see it, is the amalgam of many dreams for folks coming to or living in the United States…35 significant dreams to be exact.  Each dream or dimension supports the overall idea of the American Dream and is valued separately.  As originators of the ADCI, we often get asked to identify the dream or dreams that are furthest along (have the highest score).  Well, since the beginning of our data collection, two dimensions have stood out and they are both freedoms:  freedom of expression and political freedom.  Through these tough economic times, both dimensions have seen scores well above 80.  That is, with each, we are well over 80% of the way to fully achieving these dreams in the United States.  While not perfect, these are by far the leaders among other dimensions. In fact our Trust in Government has averaged below 40 in this same time frame.  As we move forward in the 2012 election process, it does give us hope that our ability to express ourselves, vote freely, and make our own political choices represent the dreams that are most valued and farthest along.