Did you agree with everything in this book?

[Melisa Jane]

This is a discussion topic for the February 2024 Book of the Month, "Beyond the Golden Door: Seeing the American Dream Through an Immigrant's Eyes" by Ali Master.

Did you agree with everything in this book?

[Cristina-Ioana Toader]

A particular statement towards the book's end intrigued me: "People in many parts of the world claim to live in a free society. But do they really?" This prompted the author to compare the freedoms experienced in Pakistan with those in America, presenting a binary view that might narrow our understanding of freedom.
It's crucial to acknowledge that no society embodies perfect freedom. Evaluating a country's freedom level requires a comprehensive analysis of political rights, civil liberties, economic freedom, the rule of law, and respect for fundamental human rights. I wish to tread carefully here, aiming not to offend but to broaden the discussion by highlighting that countries like the Nordic nations (Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark), Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland are often celebrated for their democratic governance, press freedom, and social equality. These examples illustrate that while many countries strive for freedom, each faces unique challenges and areas for improvement.
My intention is to emphasize the diversity and complexity of freedom across the globe. This reflection on the author's comparison invites us to consider a wider array of experiences and governance models, reminding us of the varied landscapes of liberty we navigate and the continuous efforts required to uphold and enhance freedoms in our societies.

[Nenye Lauraa]

A particular statement towards the book's end intrigued me: "People in many parts of the world claim to live in a free society. But do they really?" This prompted the author to compare the freedoms experienced in Pakistan with those in America, presenting a binary view that might narrow our understanding of freedom.
It's crucial to acknowledge that no society embodies perfect freedom. Evaluating a country's freedom level requires a comprehensive analysis of political rights, civil liberties, economic freedom, the rule of law, and respect for fundamental human rights. I wish to tread carefully here, aiming not to offend but to broaden the discussion by highlighting that countries like the Nordic nations (Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark), Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland are often celebrated for their democratic governance, press freedom, and social equality. These examples illustrate that while many countries strive for freedom, each faces unique challenges and areas for improvement.
My intention is to emphasize the diversity and complexity of freedom across the globe. This reflection on the author's comparison invites us to consider a wider array of experiences and governance models, reminding us of the varied landscapes of liberty we navigate and the continuous efforts required to uphold and enhance freedoms in our societies.

Wow! I never really thought or analyzed the statement like that, but this is insightful. Thanks for your take on the subject.

[Christabel nmeso]

I found myself in a place of understanding with this book, so no, there wasn't anything I found disagreeable. The perspectives offered were insightful and resonated with me.

[Diana Lowery]

The use of the absolute word "everything" requires me to answer no to this question. I do agree with most things in the book, however.

[Amy Luman]

Of course not. Agreeing with everything would make it seem like Masters and I are the very same person. Having said that, I am compelled to say that we have very similar perceptions.