美国人的价值观 中英文
美国价值观评价英文作文-TheSelf-relianceValueinTheUSA
美国价值观评价英文作文-TheSelf-relianceValueinTheUSAThe Self-reliance Value in The USAA famous quote by Benjamin Franklin expresses this idea well: "God helps those who help themselves." Starting and going on with their own life by helping themselves just means, self-reliance. After a brief understanding of American culture, the self-reliance value is the most impressive word for me. Because, you know, in China, some are accustomed to depending on their relatives especially parents not only in childhood but the adult stage. But in America, it is completely a different scene. How comes the self-reliance? What is its accurate meaning?First of all, just let us explore the history of America. The earliest settlers came to the North America continent to establish colonies that were free from the controls that existed in European countries, such as the controls from kings, government, priests, church, noblemen and aristocrats. After their consistent struggle and fighting, America finally declared their independence from European setters and establish a totally new polity ----democratic public. In the new-born country, everybody had individual freedom,which is the wellhead of any other human right. By freedom, American citizens began to operate the rudder of their life. That means, they can control their own destiny without any interfering from dark powers, without any bound by traditional thinking, just following their heart to find their true world. As a consequence, a value of self-reliance gradually spread.In addition, we should not ignore the Western Development that formed an important part in American history. As American settlers moved west in the early and mid-19th century, they had to depend on themselves to create a new world in the completelyunfamiliar and strange West. There were many new problems and difficulties waiting for them to overcome. There were countless resources and opportunities for them to discover and take advantage of. For them, the West was like a blank paper to write words. In the case of no comforts from their homes back East , Americans gradually developed a value similar with self-reliance. It means, they can do anything as long as they dare to challenge and work hard by themselves. It is an optimistic and brave attitude towards future and life.Furthermore, we cannot neglect the development in thinking and literature. From my point of view, the most popular content and type of book in specific period can reflect what value matters most in that period. Meanwhile, the book and thinking can take effects on values. So if we want to explore the history of the self-reliance valuedevelopment, it is unavoidable to speak of Ralph Waldo Emerson, the famous writer and philosopher in America. He expressed the American pioneer spirit in his 1841 essay, "Self-Reliance." In this essay, Emerson stated that people should be independent, not conforming to the opinions of others. Emerson believed that each person should be content and at peace within himself. To a great extent, it contributed to the spread of the self-reliance value.So we can see that the self-reliance value roots deeply in the American history and it also thrives in the mind of every American nowadays. After searching the Internet, I am attracted by an interesting phenomenon in American bookstores. Most bookstores in America include do-it-yourself books on topics ranging from repairing washing machines to planting a garden. By contrast, the similar kind of books can only be found in a nookhard to take notice of. Why? Chinese are not all thumbs. Americans are not all handyman. The big difference just comes of the value difference. For Americans, exploiting their potentials in a new field means pursuing happiness and inspiration. They are willing to use their own hand to create a new world, handle problems and jump out of comfort zone. They enjoy relying on themselves in a free world.Other than the daily life, we can still find the footprint of the self-reliance value in the superstructure like the measures of government, lows, polities, etc. As Jefferson, the American president, wrote the oath for American schoolchildren, "I promise to use my critical talent, to discover my independent thought, and to accept education so that I can judge." The oath was personally written by Jefferson, the third President of the United States, for American schoolchildren. As is known to all, the guide thinking of education not only reflects but also contributes to the spread of main value. The oath declared by American president just delivers a attitude, which is that the aim of education is to educate the youth how to depend on themselves to own an independent thinking. In a word, to learn is to be ourselves. To live is to find ourselves. There is no dependent thinking.But there is one point we should remember. Self-reliance is not rejecting any help from others. Americans still need to depend on others. Well, you know, in America, there are many charity institutions which aim to assist those who are in need. People do not admire the rich, but the rich who give back to society. In every company, employees need to work together and coordinate to accomplish tasks. In every community, members are responsible for helping and caring for other members when he or she is in need. Furthermore, most Americans relyon God. But it doesn’t contradict with the common self-reliance value. The truth of pursuing the self-reliance is to own an independent thinking and a unique and precious way of living while accepting love and giving love. As the saying goes, one tree doesn’t make a forest. When everyone hold with each other when relying on themselves and holding an independent thinking, the power of the whole country will be much stronger.Now it is time for us to go back to the original topic: what is the accurate meaning of the self-reliance value? I can use three key words to summarize it, which is exploiting potentials, independent thinking and challenging. But it can changes to fit in with the society. But the saying will not change---- God helps those who help themselves.。
美国价值观(中英文对照)
Basic American Values and Beliefs基本的美国价值观和信仰Individual Freedom and Self-Reliance个人自由和自力更生The earliest settlers came to the North American continent to establish colonies which were free from the controls that existed in European societies. They wanted to escape the controls placed on their lives by kings and governments,priests and churches,noblemen and aristocrats. To a great extent,they succeeded. In 1776 the British colonial settlers declared their independence from England and established a new nation,the United States of America. In so doing,they overthrew the king of England and declared that the power to govern would lie in the hands of the people. They were now free from the power of the king. In 1789,when they wrote the Constitution for their new nation,they separated church and state so that there would never be a government-supported church. Also,in writing the Constitution they expressly forbade titles of nobility to ensure that an aristocratic society would not develop. There would be no ruling class of noblemen in the new nation.最早的定居者来到北美大陆建立殖民地是自由的控制存在于欧洲社会。
美国人的价值观
7. Pursue independence
1.Independent Spirit is one of the most important mind; 2. Americans educate their children from childhood to self-judgment and self-determination. So they can find their place in the community.
In their views: Entertainment is a kind of relaxation, a kind of relief, a pastime, a kind of swap. It can contribute to the improvement of work efficiency and there is a argument that “work hard and play hard!”
3. Diligence
As they think: First, to do something a hundred times stronger than the idle; Second, Hard work will bring success
4. Optimistic about the openminded
9. Wish for the success
Most of the Americans have a strong desire to make success; Their desire drives the success of the Americans up and down in various fields, explorations, and progressive.
美国价价值观独立英语作文
美国价价值观独立英语作文Title: The Independence of American Values。
In the grand tapestry of global cultures, the United States stands out for its unique set of values, deeply ingrained in its history and society. At the heart of these values lies the concept of independence, a principle that permeates various aspects of American life, from politics and economics to social interactions and cultural expressions.First and foremost, American political ideology is rooted in the pursuit of independence. The Declaration of Independence, a seminal document in American history,boldly proclaims the unalienable rights of individuals to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Thisdeclaration laid the groundwork for the American Revolution, a struggle for independence from colonial rule and thebirth of a nation founded on the principles of self-governance and individual freedoms. Over the centuries,this commitment to independence has shaped the country's democratic institutions, fostering a system of checks and balances designed to prevent the concentration of power and protect the rights of citizens.Economically, the value of independence manifests in the American dream, the belief that anyone, regardless of background or circumstances, can achieve success through hard work and determination. This ethos of self-reliance and entrepreneurial spirit has fueled innovation and economic growth, making the United States a beacon of opportunity for people around the world. The rugged individualism celebrated in American folklore, from the pioneering spirit of the Wild West to the self-made tycoons of the Industrial Revolution, reflects the deeply ingrained belief in the power of individual initiative to shape one's destiny.Moreover, American society places a premium on personal autonomy and freedom of expression. From the right to free speech enshrined in the First Amendment to the protection of individual privacy in the Fourth Amendment, the legalframework of the United States is designed to safeguard individual liberties against government intrusion. This commitment to personal autonomy extends beyond the realm of law to cultural norms and social interactions, where diversity of thought and lifestyle choices are celebrated as expressions of individuality.However, the ideal of independence in American values is not without its complexities and contradictions. While the pursuit of individual freedom is championed, it often comes into tension with the collective good, leading to debates over issues such as healthcare, gun control, and social welfare. Moreover, the legacy of slavery and systemic inequality has highlighted the gap between the ideal of independence and the reality of systemic barriers that limit opportunities for marginalized communities.Nevertheless, the resilience of American values lies in their ability to adapt and evolve in response to changing circumstances. As the United States grapples with the challenges of the 21st century, from technological disruptions to global pandemics, the core values ofindependence and freedom continue to shape its collective identity and guide its path forward.In conclusion, the independence of American values is a defining characteristic of the nation's identity, shaping its history, politics, economy, and social fabric. From the founding principles of self-governance to the ethos of individual initiative and personal autonomy, the United States remains a beacon of freedom and opportunity, driven by the enduring commitment to the pursuit of independencein all its forms.。
美国文化价值观念(1)
最能体现美国文化和价值观的句子
• Nothing succeeds like success.
Like money in a savings account, success seems to compound itself. A person who has a small success expects it to be followed by a bigger one.
AMERICAN VALUES
美国价值观
Differences
Different Values Between Americans and Chinese
Chinese
Americans
• 金钱
1
• 变化
• 家庭
• 时间
2
• 爱情
• 挑战
3
• 工作
• 机遇
4
• 学历
• others
5
AMERICAN VALUES
AMERICAN VALUES
Eight Values of Americans
2、自力更生 Self-reliance
Americans believe that individual must learn to rely on themselves or risk losing freedom. This means achieving both financial and emotional independence from their parents as early as possible.
AMERICAN VALUES
Eight Values of Americans
6、敬业进取 Hard Work
美国人的价值观AmericanValues
美国人的价值观AmericanValuesAmericans sometimes fall into the trap of thinking that American values are universal ones. We can't always see that our values are actually typical American values. Instead, we assume the things Americans value are obviously what everyone should believe in.But we should remember the saying: when you "assume," you make an "ass" out of "u" and "me." We only need to look at what happens when Americans go as advisors to developing countries to see how wrong our assumptions can be. Some Americans go thinking they're sharing pearls of wisdom with the backward natives about how to get things done right. They assume that stimulating competition and giving financial incentives for individual achievement will naturally change people's behavior and lead to success. When their projects barely get off the ground, they can't understand what went wrong. They mistakenly think that people must just be lazy or that they don't really want a higher standard of living.So the advisors wind up getting discouraged and going home, grateful to be surrounded by hardworking Americans again.In these situations, we should realize that American values may come from America's unique position as the land of opportunity. We are brought up with the American dream that everyone can work hard and get ahead. But we should realize that in countries with a different history and different opportunities, other values might be more important, like avoiding conflict or saving face.。
values of America美国的价值观
Values of AmericanFrom the English class about American values, I learned a great number of ideas and thoughts being useful for me and others in our country. There are 13 commonly held values included: personal control over the environment/responsibility, change seen as natural and positive, time and its control, equality/fairness, individualism/independence, self-help initiative, competition, future orientation, action/work orientation, informality, directness/openness, practicality/efficiency, materialism/acquisitiveness listed by Robert Kohls. I just write something about a few of them, which maybe should be used reference and learned, not all.Americans do not like those believing in the power of fate and seen as being primitive, backward or hopelessly naive. In other words, those are people who are superstitious and lazy, unwilling to devote themselves to bringing about improvement. That is to say that they believe in the power of humans that can control over whatever in the environment might possibly affect them.Americans place a very high value on changing the same as responsibility, with which they can do the best to achieve many outstanding accomplishments and practicality andefficiency. Change is mightily associated with improvement, progress and growth. They do not want to be restricted by the older, more traditional cultures, for example, stability, continuity, ancient heritage-none of which is taken seriously in the United States. That is to say that they are future orientation.Americans do not like those who goes to work so late and not get things done on time. In the company, as long as there is one employee being unreasonably late, he or she would be fired definitely. On time, saving time, planning time and cherishing time are all of utmost importance to most Americans. They are very good at making schedules in details and carrying them out in the planned time and in the smallest detail to improve efficiency and productivity.Americans commonly believe in the belief that everyone is equal no matter what social status you or your parents are and how much money you have and how intelligent you are and how normal your body is or not. As long as you are a person, you have the right to obtain any opportunity to enjoy your life. For example, learn in one school and work in one company and so on. Americans respect you not in terms of your high position or your too much money. You should earn the respect by working hard.Americans advocate individualism differing from the most of non-western countries. They assert that they are special and unique in any group in which they can freely express their own opinions anytime. Privacy, resulted from individualism, is regarded as positive, desirable and satisfying and even necessary. They do not like those who asks them their privacy and talk about their private things.Americans achieve every success all by themselves. In other words, they move up the social ladder not with the help of their rich or high-ranking family.Born in an affluent or superordinate family is just identified as an accident of birth. Independence and self-help control are approved highly in the United States. They even pride themselves in being born in a poor family largely different from most other countries.Americans are already very accustomed to the atmosphere of competition which leads to innovating resulting in high-quality product under the driven of challenges or forces. They do not like people who are very lazy and have a day aimlessly and do nothing. They routinely lead an active day in schedule. Do not stand there! Do something! Just do it! They are highly popular intheir mind.Leisure time is considered as a little part of total life.These values are worth our using for reference, for instance, practical, diligent, positive, fair, independent, competitive, self-help initiative, time and its control, and so on. However, some of them should be used not directly in our cultural environment.。
美国价值观(中英文对照)
Basic American Values and Beliefs基本的美国价值观和信仰Individual Freedom and Self-Reliance个人自由和自力更生The earliest settlers came to the North American continent to establish colonies which were free from the controls that existed in European societies. They wanted to escape the controls placed on their lives by kings and governments,priests and churches,noblemen and aristocrats. To a great extent,they succeeded. In 1776 the British colonial settlers declared their independence from England and established a new nation,the United States of America. In so doing,they overthrew the king of England and declared that the power to govern would lie in the hands of the people. They were now free from the power of the king. In 1789,when they wrote the Constitution for their new nation,they separated church and state so that there would never be a government-supported church. Also,in writing the Constitution they expressly forbade titles of nobility to ensure that an aristocratic society would not develop. There would be no ruling class of noblemen in the new nation.最早的定居者来到北美大陆建立殖民地是自由的控制存在于欧洲社会。
美国人的价值观(英文版)
Personal rights cannot violate(侵犯) All men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. ——《the Declaration of Independence》 人人生而平等;造物主赋予他们若干不可剥夺的 权利,其中有生命权,自由权,追求幸福的权 利。 ——《独立宣言》
Individual competition America is a country that the weak are the prey of the strong(弱肉强食). In order to change their social class and make their lifetime dream come true, they have to compete with others, and competition has already became one popular attitude in the society.
As for the other aspects of shooting deaths, more than one million one year, about 80 people died every day.
Individualism stimulate everyone’s wisdom and potential, promote the development of the country. However, everybody take me as a center, the interpersonal relationship with difficulty harmonious, the entire society also will lack the cohesive force(凝聚力).
英美价值观
The British are long known for being slow to make changes, whether political or social, The most typical example may be their upholding of the British monarchy and their never-ceasing respect for and interest in the Royal Family.
“H are you doing ?”
America are impressed by the informality of American speech , dress , and postures. People of almost any station in life can be seen in public wearing jeans , sandals[凉鞋] ,or other informal attire [服装]. American are so wellknown is related to their informal , egalitarian [ɪ'gælə'tɛrɪən] approach to other people.
privacy
American assume that people need some time to themselves , or some time alone to think about things . They assume that people have their private thoughts that might never be shared with anyone else. Their houses, yard, and even their offices that other people are simply not supposed to cross.
美国青年的价值观英文作文
美国青年的价值观英文作文英文:As a young American, I believe that our values are shaped by a variety of factors, including our family upbringing, education, and the society we live in. One of the most important values to me is the idea of freedom and independence. In the United States, we are taught from a young age to value our personal freedom and to pursue our own paths in life. This can be seen in the way we celebrate Independence Day and the emphasis on individual rights in our constitution.Another important value for many young Americans is the idea of equality and diversity. We are a melting pot of different cultures, and we are taught to embrace diversity and treat everyone with respect and equality. This is evident in the way we celebrate cultural holidays and the push for equal rights for all individuals, regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation.Additionally, the value of hard work and perseveranceis deeply ingrained in American society. We are taught to work hard for what we want and to never give up, even inthe face of adversity. This can be seen in the stories of successful entrepreneurs and the American dream ofachieving success through hard work and determination.In my own life, these values have played a significant role in shaping who I am today. For example, the value of freedom and independence has motivated me to pursue my own passions and take risks in my career. The value of equality and diversity has taught me to appreciate different perspectives and to be open-minded in my interactions with others. And the value of hard work has driven me to push through challenges and strive for success in my endeavors.Overall, I believe that the values of freedom, equality, and hard work are central to the American identity, andthey continue to shape the beliefs and actions of young Americans today.中文:作为一个年轻的美国人,我相信我们的价值观受到多种因素的影响,包括家庭教育、教育以及我们所生活的社会。
美国人的价值观(中英文)
摘自:英语泛读教程The following is part of an essay taken from Bradford Smith's book, Why We Behave Like Americans. Success as a goal and materialism, according to Smith, are among the underlying factors that make up the American character.以下节选自布拉德福德所著《为什么我们的举止象美国人》里的一篇文章。
据布拉德福德所说,目标为成功和物质享乐主义,构成美国人性格的内在因素。
When visitors from abroad undertake to describe the American Character, the results are frequently puzzling to Americans. "All Americans are Puritans; that's what's wrong with them," says one. "They're always thinking about enjoying themselves," says another. "They spend too much time at work," a distinguished visitor tells us. "They don't know how to play." "Americans don't know what work is, " retorts another." Their machines do it all." "American women are shameless sirens." -"No, they're prudes." "The children here are wonderful -outgoing and natural." -"Natural as little beasts. They have no manners, no respect for their elders."要是让国外来客描述美国人的性格,结果常常令美国人感到奇怪。
American values美国人的价值观 在公平竞争方面 全英文
American valuesI want to talk about equal chance-based opportunity to start from scratch and achieve success through fair competition.Equality of opportunity and competition is one of the basic American values. Americans believe in the ideal, as stated in their Declaration of Independence, that "all men are created equal". Although they sometimes violate the ideal in their daily lives, Americans have a deep faith that in some fundamental way all people are of equal value, that no one is born superior to anyone else. They have felt that because individuals are free from excessive political, religious, and social controls, they have a better chance for success. Particularly important is the lack of the hereditary aristocracy,It is important to understand what Americans mean when they say they believe in equality of opportunity. They do not mean that everyone should be totally equal. However, they do mean that each individual should have an equal chance for success. American thinks highly of the persons who gain success by their hardworking, instead of relying on the family. In America, you can often see the person who is in low profile, while he (or she) is a relative of a successful person.。
Americans reliefs-freedom and self-reliance
Back in history
In perspective of history, the earliest settlers In of the new continent aboard the May Flower also with the desire of escaping the controls of tradition. European tradition . And then in 1789 the leaders of war of independence brought the concept of individual freedom into the formulation of the Constitution. Constitutioues
(美国主流价值观) 美国主流价值观)
——Individual Self——Individual Freedom and Self-reliance
(个人主义与自力更生) 个人主义与自力更生)
In America, the individual has rights above that of general society and government so that the government should take actions to protect the rights. As is the cornerstone of American values, individual freedom permeats every aspect of the society. However, a price to be paid for individualism is being self-reliance, or you will risk "losing freedom".
美国人的价值观.pptx
9. Wish for the success
Most of the Americans have a strong desire to make success;
Their desire drives the success of the Americans up and down in various fields,
2. In the United States as their commodity economy developed, and the family of origin, social hierarchy is very weak.
7. Pursue independence
1.Independent Spirit is one of the most important mind;
From a sentimental(情感) point of view, the human’s idea is mainly reflected in the
poor, unfortunate, affected people's contributions to support, and the old, weak, sick, and disabled persons and considerate
In their views: Entertainment is a kind of relaxation, a kind of relief, a pastime, a
kind of swap.
It can contribute to the improvement of work efficiency and there is a argument
美国的核心价值观
Ⅲ. Self-help Initiative(自立进取)
• In an English-language dictionary,there are
more than 100 composite words that have
the word "self" as a prefix.The equivalent of
Thank you for your attention!
these words cannot be found in most other languages.It is an indicator of how highly Americans regard the self-made man or woman.
Ⅲ. Self-help Initiative(自立进取)
Americans see as desirable.It is not
uncommon for Americans to say,and
almost to believe:"If I don't have an hour
a day to myself,I go stark-thing.
American girls: express their love etraightly.
Chinese girls: express their love subtly.
Ⅱ. privacy(隐私)
• Individualism leads to privacy,which
the behaviour or attitude of someone who does things in their own way without being influenced by other
American values 美国人的价值观
你應該幫助別人並且 善待别人。你希望別 人怎麼對待你,你就對自己的決 定負責。每一個人都 是獨一無二而且對於 自己與他們的差異感 到驕傲。
Personal Freedom
The individual has rights that society and the government cannot violate or ignore. A person has the freedom to make his/her own choices.
每個人都準時完成工 作並且有效率地執行 份內的事情。產品也 必須達到高規格的標 凖。時間就是金錢, 所以你必須將工作做 好。認真工作的態度 造就了夢想的實踐, 並且絕不輕言放棄。
Creativity and Inventiveness
An individual should always experiment and try new things. To succeed (in whatever it is you want to do in life), you have to be willing to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from your mistakes to do better in the future.
每個個體都有免於被 社會和政府干擾或忽 視的權利,有自己做 決定的自由。
Hard work and Determination
An individual finishes work on time and works efficiently. The final product meets high standards. Time is money, so you must do a good job. Hard work results in achieving your dreams. Never give up.
美国青年的价值观英文作文
美国青年的价值观英文作文英文:As a young person in the United States, I believe that our values are shaped by a variety of factors, includingour family upbringing, education, and the influence ofmedia and popular culture. One of the key values that I see in American youth is individualism. We are encouraged to express ourselves, pursue our own goals, and be independent. This can be seen in the way that we are taught to be assertive and self-reliant, and to not be afraid to stand out from the crowd.Another important value is diversity and inclusivity. The United States is a melting pot of different cultures, and American youth are taught to embrace and celebrate this diversity. We are encouraged to be open-minded andaccepting of people from all walks of life, regardless of their race, religion, or background. This is reflected in the way that we interact with each other and in our supportfor social causes that promote equality and justice.In addition to individualism and diversity, American youth also place a high value on freedom and opportunity. We are taught to believe in the American Dream – the idea that anyone can achieve success through hard work and determination. This belief in opportunity drives many of us to pursue our passions and strive for a better future.Overall, I believe that American youth value independence, diversity, and opportunity. These valuesshape the way we approach life and interact with others,and they are an important part of our identity as young people in the United States.中文:作为美国的年轻人,我相信我们的价值观受到各种因素的影响,包括家庭教育、教育以及媒体和流行文化的影响。
美国人的价值观(英文版)课件
要点一
要点二
Entertainment
Americans enjoy a wide range of entertainment options, including movies, music, and television shows. The entertainment industry is a major contributor to the US economy.
VS
Americans believe in the power of community and the importance of giving back. Many Americans volunteer their time and resources to serve their communities.
06
Conclusion
Individualism: Americans value the individual and believe that everyone has the right to pursue their own happiness and success. This often leads to a strong focus on personal growth, self-expression, and personal freedom.
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摘自:英语泛读教程The following is part of an essay taken from Bradford Smith's book, Why We Behave Like Americans. Success as a goal and materialism, according to Smith, are among the underlying factors that make up the American character. 以下节选自布拉德福德所着《为什么我们的举止象美国人》里的一篇文章。
据布拉德福德所说,目标为成功和物质享乐主义,构成美国人性格的内在因素。
When visitors from abroad undertake to describe the American Character, the results are frequently puzzling to Americans. "All Americans are Puritans; that's what's wrong with them," says one. "They're always thinking about enjoying themselves," says another. "They spend too much time at work," a distinguished visitor tells us. "They don't know how to play." "Americans don't know what work is, " retorts another." Their machines do it all." "American women are shameless sirens." - "No, they're prudes." "The children here are wonderful - outgoing and natural." -"Natural as little beasts. They have no manners, no respect for their elders."要是让国外来客描述美国人的性格,结果常常令美国人感到奇怪。
一个人说:“所有的美国人都是清教徒;所以他们与众不同。
”另一个人说:“他们总是想方设法让自己开心。
”一位尊贵的客人告诉我们:“他们花在工作上的时间太多。
他们不懂如何玩乐。
”另一个人反驳说:“他们不懂什么是工作。
因为机器替他们做了一切。
”“美国女人是不知廉耻的,妖艳而危险的女人。
”--“不,她们假正经。
”“这里的孩子真好--外向,自然。
”----“象小小的野兽一样自然。
他们没礼貌,不尊敬长辈。
”There is, of course, no single pattern of American character any more than there is a single English or Turkish or Chinese character. Personality in America is further complicated by our diverse racial and cultural origins, by successive waves of immigration from all parts of the world, by our regional diversities. It is complicated by several hundred varieties of religious belief with their varying impact on the believers. It is further diversified by the generation to which the person belongs -first generation immigrant, second generation child of immigrants, and on down the line.当然,世上既没有单一模式的美国人性格,也没有单一的英国人性格或土耳其人性格或是中国人性格。
个性的定义在美国变得更为复杂,因为我们有不同的种族和文化背景,因为来自世界各地连续不断的移民浪潮,因为我们区域的多样性。
个性的定义变得复杂,因为几百种不同的宗教信仰及其对各自的信奉者的影响不同。
个性的定义也由于每个人所处的年代不同而趋多样化--第一代是移民,第二代是移民的孩子,一直照此延续下去。
The temptation is strong to lump all Americans together. Yet those who look a little deeper are puzzled by the seeming contradictions in American life. It is true that Americans as a whole work hard. But they also play hard. They spend more time and money in traveling, camping, hunting, watching sports, drinking, smoking, going to movies, watching television and reading newspapers and magazines than any other people in the world. Yet they also spend more money on churches, social services, hospitals and all kinds of charities. They are always in a hurry, yet they spend more time relaxing. They are at the same time sensitive to the rights of the individual and habitual conformist. They worship bigness yet idealize the little man, whether he be the small business man as opposed to the big one or the plain citizen as opposed to the big wheel.强大的吸引力把众多的美国人聚集在了一起。
然而那些想再了解深入一点的人弄不懂美国人生活中各种似乎自相矛盾的东西。
的确,美国人总体上工作努力。
但他们也拼命地玩。
他们去旅游、露营、打猎、看体育比赛、喝酒、抽烟、看电影电视、读报纸杂志,花的时间和金钱比世界任何地方的人都多。
而他们还把更多的时间花在教会、社会服务、医院和各种各样的慈善活动上。
他们总是忙来忙去,又总是花更多的时间休闲。
他们十分在乎个人的权利,又习惯于墨守陈规。
他们崇拜大人物,也把小人物理想化,不论他是和大商人形成对照的小商人,还是和大权在握的人形成对照的平民百姓。
Success as a Goal 成功作为目标One thing almost everyone is agreed on, including Americans, is that they place a very high valuation upon success. Success does not necessarily mean material rewards, but recognition of some sort - preferably measurable. If the boy turns out to be a preacher instead of a business man, that's all right. But the bigger his church and congregation, the more successful he is judged to be.包括美国人在内几乎每一个人都会赞同的一点是,美国人极为看重成功。
成功不一定是物质上的回报,而是得到某种认可,最好是可以衡量的那种。
如果一个男孩后来没有从商,而是做了布道的教士,那也没什么。
但是他的教堂规模越大,教堂会众越多,别人就认为他越成功。
A good many things contributed to this accent on success. There was the Puritan belief in the virtue of work, both for its own sake and because the rewards it brought were regarded as signs of God's love. There was the richness of opportunity in a land waiting to be settled. There was the lack of a settled society with fixed ranks and classes, so that a man was certain to rise through achievement.好多事情都说明,成功是美国人生活的重点。
清教徒相信工作带来的好处,既有工作本身的乐趣,还因为工作的回报是上帝之爱的体现。
一片富饶的土地到处都是机遇,等待着人们到来。
在一个不固守陈规的社会,没有严格的等级和阶级,这样人就一定能通过成功提升自己的社会地位。
There was the determination of the immigrant to gain in the new world what had been denied to him in the old, and the part of his children an urge to throw off the immigrant onus by still more success and still more rise in a fluid, classless society. Brothers did not compete within the family for the favor of the parents as in Europe, but strove for success in the outer world, along paths of their own choosing.凡是旧的世界拒绝给的,移民决心都要在新的世界得到。