The end of the chapter talks about how the face of the woman has changed over time form the 1900's to 1970's. The end of the chapter also expresses the impact that consumerism had on the American family, and how this has become more driven by what they have ( materials) rather than the structure of the family and the time they spend together. Now, there is a push of why settle when you can have the next big thing. The author explains that consumerism poses a threat to the work ethic. The writer states that the drive behind a work ethic and consumerism are the same.
One thing is evident, the role of women has changed dramatically since the early 1900's, this chapter does a great job of drawing the time line, as well as shows the markers of significant change. Another thing pointed out is the way that the picture of the family has changed, and it is perhaps rather obvious how holidays i.e. mother's day had become more commercialized. Society has managed to move away from the traditional roles that were once set for men and women and provided...
However though these changes have taken place, women do still manage to take care of the home, they appear o just alter their methods, while still managing to have a positive outcome for the most part. However, consumerisms has created a growing need and want for more, more, more, and nothing but the best; it is important to not just look at the negatives, but find a method that can somehow make that need for more and that drive for the best work in a more effective way. Lastly, women are a strong force, a force that has grown over time. They have taken the traditional role of homemaker and morphed it to fit the world at that particular time. Never fitting the mold, but making the mold work for them.
References
Coontz, S. (1992). The Way We Never Were: American Families and the Nostalgia Trap. New York: Basic Books. Retrieved October 7, 2010, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=34358866
