- Fosters critical examination of six dominant myths of U.S. culture. Rereading America focuses on critically rereading six myths central to American culture: the nuclear family is the only solid basis for society; education empowers all citizens; everyone who works hard will be a success; gender is biologically determined; America is a melting pot; and the American frontier was completely free (new to this edition).
- Uses a cultural studies approach to promote critical thinking. Rereading America presents diverse political and cultural perspectives as grist for critical thinking. Many of the book's 73 selections are from groups that have been pushed to the margins of our society -- people of color, women, gays and lesbians. These readings encourage students to recognize and critically examine the cultural myths that shape their own thinking and values. Each chapter also includes one historical representation of the chapter's myth and one contemporary manifestation. Strong apparatus throughout provides support for critical thinking.
- A variety of genres and disciplines engages students. Writings from inside and outside the academy represent a range of disciplines -- including sociology, history, education, political science, and psychology -- and offer a variety of forms and genres, including personal narraties, journalistic accounts, oral histories, poems, stories, cartoons, and photographs. Selections about the media in every chapter show how the Int