Dream

Correct. The US definitely operates on a class system (as do most nations) which is constantly denied by most citizens, even those at the bottom. American exceptionalism includes the ideas of equality of opportunity and class mobility MEANING if you are not successful, it is YOUR fault because the SYSTEM is fair and there are no barriers to success (upward mobility). Add to this a strong CALVINIST heritage that teaches prosperity is a sign of being moral and chosen to succeed (by god) while poverty + failure are godly punishments for a flawed, immoral character. Finally, Americans have a devout belief in individualism, individuality + personality as causal forces in determining life outcomes. Systemic forces like economic class, race, + gender inequality are either minor, easily overcome with perseverance, or simply do not exist except as excuses for personal failures. Even if there is inequality in opportunity or systemic barriers, it does not mean that I (a unique individual) cannot succeed because I am the exceptional exception.