[Author’s Name]
[Institution’s Name]
Essay on The Wilding of America: Money, Mayhem, and the
New American Dream
Charles Derber looks at societal fears like violent crime and terrorism, arguing that there are contradictions between today's American Dream and American prospects for success. The price of failure (frustration and rage) and the price of success (emptiness and fear) threaten the bonds of community and the survival of the society.
After reading this book I think that together with methodology, sociological theory this book provides the tools necessary for a clear understanding of the debates and controversies in all areas of social inquiry. It will also help in enhancing ability to make fine theoretical distinctions and to appreciate the strengths and weaknesses of various empirical data influences not just our ability to understand an issue or problem, but whether we see the issue/problem at all. It helps us see what we might otherwise not see; it helps us evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of conflicting points of view. It will also provides the ability to examine the assumptions underlying various propositions, arguments and theories is also closely related to the ability to see through the ideas and biases which frame our outlook on social reality. And the cultivation of these skills methodological judiciousness and theoretical discernment has an importance that transcends purely academic justifications. All the rituals and practices which we reproduce in daily life are supported and justified with an implicit theory of social reality. Clearly understanding the underpinnings of these theories of social reality is an important part of our personal development and our ability to exercise independent judgement.
In recent years, Derber says in his new book The Wilding of America says that America's societal bonds have been under assault by "wilding," which he defines as self-oriented actions by individuals, corporations or the government which hurt others. This country's traditional belief in individualism has combined with the economic and personal insecurity many now feel.....
