Karen Armstrong's Homo Religiosus: An Analysis

Even though an American can be defined as an individual that resides in America, it takes on a deeper meaning when one defines a "true American. America is a country that is portrayed as a melting pot. It is often described as such because it reflects the vast majority of immigrants moving to America to find freedom and new opportunity. With this comes new cultures, traditions and ideas But "American" is as broad of a term as "Freedom", yet we use the term loosely without ever defining it. So, what exactly is it"? An American comes with a systematic way of living just as many other cultures around the globe. An American can be described as someone who believes in freedom of self and other individuals. America is a place where people come to seek opportunity and liberty. In Karen Armstrong 's "Homo Religiosus" she …show more content…
America is what most immigrants consider the land of opportunity. Americans live in better conditions than third world countries; because of this they can get an education, jobs, and pursue a career. Citizens of America have opportunities that most don 't; this is because America gives you the option to pursue whatever you want to do. Opportunity is there for Americans, and many immigrants have come to believe that America will set them up with great opportunities. Many immigrants believe that can be successful in America; this is a faith that they have. Karen Armstrong stated in "Homo Religiosus" that people in Paleolithic time did not to expect to believe in an animal master before entering a cave; this became a faith once they saw the paintings and practiced rituals. (pg.39) This relates back to opportunity in America because immigrants and many others have a faith that they all have opportunities in America. Opportunity is something many people believe in, and you will see many people put their faith into it because of the rewards and benefits of a better