Economyths of Work, Value, and Success in America

Economyths of Work, Value, and Success in America is an examination and critique of the economic mythologies about opportunity and prosperity that underlie our discussions and decision making about public policy. Elisa Jayne Bienenstock and Skaidra Smith-Heisters expose the rich mythology that has emerged since the founding of America as a nation investigating themes such as individualism, self-determination, community, and collective action.

Through contextual storytelling, this unique book introduces the classic lessons of social psychology, economics, sociology, and political science to explore how myths are used as levers of persuasion, evoking complex associations with American core values: freedom, fairness, and equality. Each chapter presents iconic American stories, contemporary examples and counterexamples, and empirical findings to identify the heuristics and biases that sustain adherence to these narratives. Ultimately, this innovative book empowers readers to engage in this discourse and appreciate the creation, meaning, and implementation of economyths.



The novel insights presented in this book will be of interest to students and academics specializing in sociology, American history, American folklore, economics, social psychology, public policy, and political science