We tell ourselves it's okay to start working in a lower class job or in retail. We always believe that our “puritan work ethic” would make it possible to advance in society and eventually move to a suburban area like Northbrook. Americans believe that hard work brings a reward. In the Autobiography of Ben Franklin, he explains that people may work during the industrial revolution to avoid being born into the lower classes. Investopedia defines the American Dream and says it takes hard work: “[The American Dream is] The belief that anyone, regardless of where they were born or what class they were born into, can achieve their own version of success in a society where upward mobility is possible for everyone. The American dream is achieved through sacrifice, risk-taking and hard work, not surprisingly.” Social mobility is an example of intellectual perseverance because to advance classes in society, you have to persevere through many obstacles such as long hours in the beginning. You also have a better understanding of what it means to have a "puritan work ethic" because you have worked for your reward, instead of inheriting it like others. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay As Americans, we tell ourselves that we can do whatever we want and say whatever we want without getting in trouble. Americans believe that you are free to do whatever you want. Americans believe in freedom because our individual liberties are protected by the First Amendment of the Constitution, namely freedom of speech, of the press, of assembly, of petition, and of religion. Americans also express this freedom at all sporting events when they sing “land of the free” in the national anthem. In America, unlike other countries, there is no compulsory military service once you reach the age of majority. Furthermore, there are no laws against guns, alcohol and social media, which are banned in many Asian countries. Freedom is an example of innate desire fulfillment because we have always been told through the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, and the National Anthem that everyone is free to do whatever they want. However, there are some illegal acts such as any defamation. Furthermore, other acts are highly controversial such as gun ownership, abortion, and gay marriage; for which you can be punished. Americans tell each other that they have the power to vote for elected officials during elections and that their views are heard in government. Americans believe that the people have the power to govern. Americans believe in popular sovereignty because Enlightenment figures such as John Locke and Jean-Jacques-Rousseau believed it was a social contract in which people elect government to protect their interests. Popular sovereignty is also outlined in the opening of the Declaration of Independence when it states: “…Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. – That to guarantee these rights, governments are established among Men, which derive their just powers from the consent of the governed.” America has a democratic republic, which means we elect officials to represent our views. These elected officials cannot act against our will, and if they do, we have the right to rebel. Popular sovereignty is an example of intellectual autonomy because we believe that we the people govern ourselves. Our beliefs and values ​​are represented. We can also question the government's action or confirm it by showing support. Americans tell ourselves we should know our own.