h in the individual and his rights, the cult of mon man, the high valuation put on change and progress, and on pleasure consciously pursued as a good. Equally strong is the American’s faith in his institutions.Р5. Individualism and equality. Americans firmly believe in them. For Americans, individual rights and obligatione first. They believe in equality of opportunity. Any individual, no matter how poor, can achieve wealth and fame through diligence and virtue. Any boy can, in theory, e President. Striving is a moral obligation. Achievement, not class, is the standard by which men are judged. There is little or no glory attached to being born wealthy or privileged. The real test is how far you climb from where you started.