The American dream to the realists in the United States is marrying an attractive person, living in a upper-middle class neighborhood with a respectable and high paying job. In addition the couple or family must look like and behave like everyone else. When in they go out in public, they hope all the other people will be impressed. These rich snobs only care about themselves and believe it is only them and "equivalent or better" people who can share this dream. For the idealists in America, their dream is to have individuality. They want to preserve their culture, and help others in any way they can. Their dream is available to anyone who believes in it. In A Raisin in the Sun Lorrain Hansbury makes a negative comment on the American dream by contrasting George Murchison and Joseph Asagai; their differences are developed in their views on Beneatha, their African culture and their education.
Murchison's idea that the American dream is his exclusively is portrayed through his comments that indicate that he believes Beneatha is simply a trophy, while Asagia's wish to share the American dream with everyone is portrayed through his true passion and concern for Beneatha. George inadvertently admits he wishes to exclude Beneatha from his American dream. He rudely interrupts her to say that he does not "go out with [her] to hear all about [her] thoughts," when she attempts to have a discussion with him. George just wants her by his side so he can talk about himself and look impressive to others. He clearly only has interest in her because she is a "nice-looking girl," which is "all [she] needs." He shows no consideration for her thoughts, or her wants and needs. Geroge only needs her to show off her beauty to others which helps fulfill his dream, but definitely not Beneatha's. He further emphasizes his selfishness and shallowness when he tells her what kind of girl he wants her to be, "nice-simple- sophisticated-not a poet.