Great Gatsby Theme Survey

Do you like it when a movie has a moral theme of what is right & wrong?

• Very Much

• Mostly

• Not really

• I won't engage in it

“I believe in the idea of a soulmate or perfect match. Once you find that special someone, do everything you can to make it work.”

• Agree

• Disagree

Answer explanation

Respond: This concept does not make mathematical sense. I know many happy couples who found each other.  What a fabulous coincidence that they crossed paths and spoke the same language on this giant planet with many billions of people! 😉 While the concept of a “soulmate” is appealing, there are many good romantic matches for most individuals.

What age to do you think you will get married?

“You can be friends with someone that you do not actually like.”

• Agree

• Disagree

Answer explanation

This depends on your definition of “friend.” You might spend time with someone because you enjoy the same activities even if you do not respect them or feel concern for their wellbeing.  I reserve the term friend for people that I respect and care about. I would be willing to make a personal sacrifice for their benefit.

What benefits could there be for being friends with someone you don't generally like?

“Anyone who gets rich in this world has probably behaved immorally to become so.”

• Agree

• Disagree

Answer explanation

Disagree. Some people are talented or brilliant to the extent that they can achieve great success on an even playing field. I do not assume that all rich people are immoral.

What do you think is the "American Dream"?

“It is possible to reinvent yourself. You can forget your past, start over, and become whomever you want.”

• Agree

• Disagree

Answer explanation

Respond: I think that this would take a very unique mentality. Assuming you were able to obscure your past and your records, you carry yourself and your past in your own mind.  You may not want to possess certain traits or proclivities, but you do. Your identity and personality are the end result of what lies beneath, and that is almost inalterable.

“In our modern society, family background is meaningless. Social class is based on individual qualities and achievements.”

• Agree

• Disagree

Answer explanation

I agree. If you make a bazillion dollars and comport yourself with style and grace, nobody cares about your parents or ancestors.  There might small, insular social circles that still consider that type of thing, but they are the extreme minority.  Ancestral class mattered more back in the day; wealth and accomplishment matter more now.  In fact, a well-heeled background may meet with derision.

“The wealthy have a responsibility to the greater society.”

• Agree

• Disagree

Answer explanation

Responsibility is not the right word. It is a blessing for all concerned when the fortunate voluntarily support the greater good.  It is both admirable and desirable.  However, the word responsibility suggests an expectation or mandate in this altruistic behavior and somehow negates its value. Taxes are mandatory. Altruism must be voluntary. If a wealthy individual has chosen to help no one, they have done nothing wrong, but they have missed the opportunity to do right.