Requiem for the American Dream

In this teach-in by the preeminent public intellectual, Noam Chomsky explains in depth how the concentration of wealth and power has undermined the American dream of upward class mobility as well as democracy. He draws on philosophy, history and ideology to trace a 40-year trend of government bent to the will of the superrich at the expense of everyone else. “That’s what happens when you put power in the hands of a narrow sector.”  Although the interviews that make up this film took place over four years, the analysis fits the 2016 election campaign and its tragic outcome.  

Profoundly personal and thought provoking, Chomsky provides penetrating insight into what may well be the lasting legacy of our time – the death of the middle class, and swan song of functioning democracy. Nevertheless, he reminds us that power ultimately rests in the hands of the governed –if only we have the courage to seize it.