Whither American Optimism? Withering

Nearly half of Americans (49%) do not believe that it is possible to simply work hard and get rich, while 32% think that it could happen, according to Rasmussen Reports. They are more optimistic about the possibility that anyone who wants to work could find a job (45%), though that proportion has slipped from 50% in the prior year. A slight majority believes a person could work his or her way out of poverty (53%).

Only about one in five (21%) believe that today’s children will be better off than their parents, down from 27% in January 2009. [Opinion, Workforce/Employment]

Source: Rasmussen Reports, Scott Rasmussen, President, 625 Cookman Ave., Asbury Park, NJ 07712; 732-776-9777; info@rasmussenreports.com; www.rasmussenreports.com. Price: Toplines available online at no charge, detailed findings available with subscription.

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