Question

How does the statement "The American is a new man, who acts upon new principles; he must therefore entertain new ideas, and form new opinions" compare to your ideas and understanding of the American in the year 2020?

a. It accurately reflects the American spirit in 2020.
b. It no longer applies to the modern American.
c. It underestimates the adaptability of Americans.
d. It highlights the continuity of American values.

Answer 1

The statement reflects the belief that Americans are constantly evolving and adapting to new ideas and circumstances. Americans in 2020 are more diverse, technologically advanced, and socially aware than ever before, which has led to the formation of new ideas and opinions.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement 'The American is a new man, who acts upon new principles; he must therefore entertain new ideas, and form new opinions' was made by Thomas Paine, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. It reflects the belief that Americans are constantly evolving and adapting to new ideas and circumstances. In the year 2020, this statement still holds true to some extent. While there is undoubtedly a continuity of American values, such as democracy and individualism, the American society has also changed significantly over time. Americans in 2020 are more diverse, technologically advanced, and socially aware than ever before, which has led to the formation of new ideas and opinions.