Summary of “american Ideology” by Howard Zinn

Summary of “American Ideology” by Howard Zinn

In the article “American Ideology” Howard Zinn states that the American society ideas and beliefs is controlled by its elites. Past decisions and ideas have steered to disastrous consequences and outcomes. The media, press, corporate executives, and politicians will drive these ideas to sustain their positions, rankings, and power. Limited options and opportunity are given for Americans to choose from. Zinn exposes the flaws in our government checks and balances, one head branch leads and the other two follows. Ideas from corporate executives, the wealthy, and power hungry elites and officials are controlling these systems. Zinn compares this idea to a multiple choice test, how choices a,b,c, and d are given to choose from “but [choices] e,f,g and h [aren’t] even listed”. Zinn believes that the American citizens should be able to independently make their own rational choices and think for themselves, branching away from the conventional and traditional ideology.

Instead of letting individuals with power and wealth dictate and control the American society, Zinn states there are “openings and challenges” in other places our democracy can follow, taking a gamble and to help build a different society from the current ideology that citizens live in today. Following in the footsteps of the country’s historical rebellions such as the Boston Bread Rioters or the protesters against industrial pollution. Society working together, making “democracy come alive”, Zinn believes that society can develop a new ideology from today’s current one. Many will join together to create a better society.

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