Coming Apart by Charles Murray
- 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 growing cultural divide between American classes
B) The impact of technology on education
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) Focus on the majority population
D) Simplify data collection
- 3. Murray identifies Belmont as representing:
A) Industrial manufacturing centers
B) Rural agricultural areas
C) Working-class communities
D) The educated upper class
- 4. Murray uses Fishtown to symbolize:
A) The white working class
B) Environmental conservation areas
C) Fishing industry towns
D) Coastal vacation communities
- 5. One of Murray's 'four founding virtues' is:
A) Technological proficiency
B) Industriousness
C) Physical fitness
D) Artistic talent
- 6. Murray argues that the new upper class is characterized by:
A) Reduced political influence
B) Declining educational attainment
C) Increasing isolation from mainstream America
D) Greater integration with other classes
- 7. Murray's data shows that working-class Americans are increasingly:
A) Better educated than previous generations
B) Less likely to participate in community organizations
C) More involved in local politics
D) More geographically mobile
- 8. What trend does Murray document regarding religiosity?
A) Complete secularization of society
B) Growth of new religious movements
C) Sharp decline in working-class religious participation
D) Uniform increase across all classes
- 9. The book suggests that economic segregation has led to:
A) Reduced political polarization
B) Greater economic mobility
C) More diverse neighborhoods
D) Different lived experiences and values
|