The American Dream og Jay Z's 'Empire State of Mind'

The American Dream is considered one of the key components as well as the foundation for the capitalistic, modern America. The Dreams itself focuses on giving the individual a chance for a better and more successful life, through the social, economic and the political system. In other words, the American Dream is a vision for a country, in which life should be richer, better and fuller for everyone. Based on these thoughts, The United States of America became “The land of opportunity”, and the world's absolute Hegemon due to their political, economic and military status. Although, the vision leads to America's rise, many argue that the Dream has taken a negative turn since the beginning of the industrial era as it has become a pursuit of material prosperity due to the tendency of individuals choosing materialistic goods rather than enjoying a fulfilling life and its congenital values. Furthermore, in a contemporary perspective, it's debatable whether the American Dream is even for everybody or if the poor are stuck at the bottom due to the political structure demanding self-paid college tuitions and healthcare for the low-income citizens.

Jay z´s “empire state of mind” presents the positive side of the American Dream, as it is a self-biography of his own route to success.