The achievement of desire Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The achievement of desire - Essay Example The main problem for Rodriguez was that complete cultural assimilation did not take place. However, the predominance of American values, in all institutions but particularly in the workplace and the schools, often placed great pressures on immigrant families, created conflict between family members and sometimes threatened positive identification with their own cultures. In terms of one-way assimilation, Rodriguez was the only member of the family able to assimilate and accept new cultural values and principles (Hollinger 82). However, it is important not to generative too much from these associations. Individuals and families from most countries have arrived over extended periods of time; the experience of early arrivals is often quite different from that of later arrivals, who come to an established community. "There is no trace of his parents' accent in his speech. Instead he approximates the accents of teachers and classmates" (Rodriguez n.d.). In terms of ethnic hierarchy theory, American culture was a dominant one as it reflected values and traditions of the state. In contrast, Mexican culture was seen as a minor one representing immigrants and asylum seekers. In order to success in life, Rodriguez had to choose a dominant culture and its principles value by the majority of society.