American Society

Thesis: Emerson's argument in "The American Scholar" about the American society still holds true today.

People want the greatest outcome, while doing the least amount of work. When a student is asked to write a paper, they only meet the requirements. They don't go one step beyond, because when they do the bare minimum they still get the best grade possible. "The tradesman scarcely ever gives an ideal worth to his work, but is ridden by the routine of his craft, and the soul is subject to dollars." When a working person is asked to do a chore they don't usually perform at their best, as long as they get the job done and still get money.

Americans learn only the skills related to their workforce. Americans find that it would be a waste of money and time if they learned things that aren't necessary. Like how to speak a different language when they are planning on being a doctor. When learning how to speak a new language can help when they need to help someone who doesn't speak English. In the air force the men are not taught how to drive ships or submarines, but they are taught how to fly planes. But in war it could be beneficial to the pilot if they knew how to use a boat, because it could give the individual more options.