- 1. In 'Coming Apart: The State of White America, 1960-2010', Charles Murray explores the growing cultural divide in American society, focusing specifically on working-class white individuals and their declining social structure. He presents a detailed analysis of how changes in family structure, education, and work ethic have led to a fracturing of community bonds and a deterioration of shared values among this demographic. Through a combination of statistical data and observational insights, Murray contrasts the lives of the upper-middle class with those of the lower classes, illustrating the increasing isolation and disconnection of the latter. He argues that economic success is not merely a function of income and employment, but is deeply intertwined with social factors such as marriage, religious faith, and civic engagement. The book raises important questions about the implications of these trends for the future of American society, emphasizing the necessity of understanding the cultural underpinnings of poverty and the importance of fostering social integration. Murray’s work is both provocative and controversial, inviting readers to confront uncomfortable truths and consider the complex realities of life in America.
What is the primary focus of Charles Murray's 'Coming Apart'?
A) The impact of technology on education
B) The growing cultural divide between American classes
C) The history of American political parties
D) Global economic trends in the 21st century
- 2. Murray's analysis primarily examines white Americans to:
A) Isolate class effects from racial factors
B) Exclude immigrant experiences
C) Simplify data collection
D) Focus on the majority population
- 3. Murray identifies Belmont as representing:
A) Working-class communities
B) Rural agricultural areas
C) The educated upper class
D) Industrial manufacturing centers
- 4. Murray uses Fishtown to symbolize:
A) Fishing industry towns
B) The white working class
C) Environmental conservation areas
D) Coastal vacation communities
- 5. One of Murray's 'four founding virtues' is:
A) Physical fitness
B) Technological proficiency
C) Industriousness
D) Artistic talent
- 6. Murray argues that the new upper class is characterized by:
A) Greater integration with other classes
B) Increasing isolation from mainstream America
C) Declining educational attainment
D) Reduced political influence
- 7. Murray's data shows that working-class Americans are increasingly:
A) Better educated than previous generations
B) More involved in local politics
C) Less likely to participate in community organizations
D) More geographically mobile
- 8. What trend does Murray document regarding religiosity?
A) Growth of new religious movements
B) Sharp decline in working-class religious participation
C) Uniform increase across all classes
D) Complete secularization of society
- 9. The book suggests that economic segregation has led to:
A) Greater economic mobility
B) Different lived experiences and values
C) Reduced political polarization
D) More diverse neighborhoods
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