According to principle number 4 of elite theory: "Elites share a consensus on the basic values of the social system including the
preservation of the system". According to number 6: "Active elites are subject to relatively little direct influence from the apathetic
masses. Elites influence the masses more than the masses influence the elites". From these two principles it can be argued that the study of the development of elite values is the study of American values! What are these basic values and where do they come from?
1) Protestant Work Ethic Values of: A) hard work;
B) self-reliance; C) stern morality
2) smug self-righteousness
3) individual responsibility for the well-being of society
The Frontier Epoch (1803-1900) and The Melting Pot Epoch (1880-1940s)
The Louisianna Purchase (1803) greatly expands the opportunities for people to move away from "society" and out into the "open frontier" where the traditional bonds of society are loose. The Civil War (1861-1865) is the culminating event in the breakdown of elite agreement.
Social Darwinism replaces individual rsponsibility for the well-being of society. Individualism and the values of exploitation (waste, crime, slavery, contempt for the environment, glorification of the common man, and lack of artistry) replace concern for and responsibility to the community
The Modern or Consumer Epoch
The stock market crash, the Depression and World War I and II alter elite values related to Social Darwinism
Noblese Oblige becomes part of the elite value orientation
The Values of the Contemporary Elite
1) individual liberty
2) private property
3) limited government
4) due process of law
5) strong defense
6) opposition to socialism and communism
7) liberal and public-regarding social welfare programs
Roots of the American Character
1) our Puritan legacy
2) the frontier
3) consumerism/ capitalism
The American National Character
1) competitive at the individual level for material success
2) equalitarianism
3) an emphasis on religious-moral values
4) anti-authority/ pro-common sense
5) optimistic
6) racist
7) self-conscious Americanism
8) violent
Morality Parables Which Flow From Our Culture/Character