Americanism in the Twenty-First Century (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780521145244)

This book explores public opinion about being and becoming American, and its implications for contemporary immigration debates. It focuses on the causes and consequences of two aspects of American identity: how people define being American and whether people think of themselves primarily as American rather than as members of a panethnic or national origin group. Importantly, the book evaluates the claim - made by scholars and pundits alike - that all Americans should prioritize their American identity instead of an ethnic or national origin identity. It finds that national identity within American democracy can be a blessing or a curse. It can enhance participation, trust, and obligation. But it can be a curse when perceptions of deviation lead to threat and resentment. It can also be a curse for minorities who are attached to their American identity but also perceive discrimination. The notion of American identity is a predisposition that the government has good reason to cultivate, but also good reason to approach with caution.

Author: Deborah J. Schildkraut
ISBN-10: 0521145244
ISBN-13: 9780521145244
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Language: English
Published: 11/15/2010
Pages: 280
Format: Paperback
Weight: 0.85lbs
Size: 6.14h x 9.24w x 0.57d