Welcome to the Institute for Politics and the American Dream at Xavier University.

Sitting as we do in the midst of America's heartland in Cincinnati in a perpetually crucial state in national elections, we have an advantaged point of reference regarding the direction of the hopes and aspirations of the nation.

We are pleased to announce and share our inaugural, national State of the American Dream Survey^TM. Everyone is invited to read on and make their own judgments. The numbers are here for all to see. The value of this data is multiplied by the comparative opportunities provided by what will be an annual event, making year over year comparisons possible. The purpose of the study is to help define what the dream is and to whom; to measure America's confidence in itself and the future; and to understand the aspirations and values likely to direct current and future economic, political and cultural decisions.

Countries do not dream, and the American Dream is not a monolithic idea. But Americans do still dream their dreams, even in these difficult economic times. However, the underlying meaning of and confidence in the American Dream are changing — particularly in terms of the imagined prospects for our children and grandchildren, as well as a declining belief in the idea that America creates the world's future.

Thank you for your interest. Your comments and questions are welcome.

Founding Director