This segment presents five widely varying views of this inalienable right, in which only a few find the American dream.
- Patty St. James Roberts, baby-boomer and divinity student, in her essay "Journey Home," returns to her upper middle-class hometown, Webster Groves, MO, where she was featured in the 1966 documentary Sixteen in Webster Groves (originally broadcast on CBS) and discovers that her expectations for happiness have changed. With independent (and original Webster Groves) producer Arthur Barron.
- Lars Eighner, a scavenger and author, in his essay "Reflections on Dumpster Diving," takes viewers to his favorite dumpsters where he finds food, clothing, and shelter in the refuse of the American dream. With independent producer David Van Taylor.
- Arianna Huffington, social critic, in her essay "The Spiritual Deficit and the American Dream," explains why happiness can be achieved only through the spiritual awakening that comes of helping others. With independent producer Marco Williams.
- A group of Hispanic and African-American teenagers from New York City's Lower East Side, create a play with drama teacher Arthur T. Wilson to describe their urban reality within the American dream in their essay "Young Playwrights." With independent producer Nigel Noble.
- Rosa Martha Zarate Macias, ex-nun and labor organizer, in her essay "Dichosa Mujer," takes viewers to the rural barrios of San Bernadino, where she finds happiness helping others. With independent producer Christine Burrill.
Soapbox commentator: Timothy Leary, pop icon.
Length: 1 hour
Production Credits:
Producer: Claypoint Productions for ITVS
Executive Producer: Richard O'Regan
Senior Producer: Nigel Noble
Segment Producers: David Van Taylor, Arthur Barron, Nigel Noble, Marco Williams, and Christine Burrill
Program Three: THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS
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DECLARATIONS: ESSAYS ON AMERICAN IDEALS
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