Tear Down This Wall (1987)

question 53

Multiple Choice

Tear Down This Wall (1987)
Ronald Reagan
Behind me stands a wall that encircles the free sectors of this city, part of a vast system of barriers that divides the entire continent of Europe. From the Baltic, south, those barriers cut across Germany in a gash of barbed wire, concrete, dog runs, and guardtowers. . . .
In the 1950s, Khrushchev predicted: "We will bury you." But in the West today, we see a free world that has achieved a level of prosperity and well-being unprecedented in all human history. In the Communist world, we see failure, technological backwardness, declining standards of health, even want of the most basic kind-too little food. Even today, the Soviet Union still cannot feed itself. After these four decades, then, there stands before the entire world one great and inescapable conclusion: Freedom leads to prosperity. Freedom replaces the ancient hatreds among the nations with comity and peace. Freedom is the victor. . . .
As I looked out a moment ago from the Reichstag, that embodiment of German unity, I noticed words crudely spray-painted upon the wall, perhaps by a young Berliner: "This wall will fall. Beliefs become reality." Yes, across Europe, this wall will fall. For it cannot withstand faith; it cannot withstand truth. The wall cannot withstand freedom.
-Which contemporary trend best describes the fundamental values articulated by Reagan?

• A) globalization of trade and information as catalysts to democratic movements
• B) the outsourcing of manufacturing and services
• C) the fall of oppressive dictatorships in the Middle East
• D) the widespread adoption of free market principles and capitalism

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Definitions:

Implicit Beliefs

Refers to the attitudes or stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions in an unconscious manner.

Cultural Statements

Expressions or manifestations that convey the values, beliefs, and norms of a society or group.

Sociocultural Influences

Factors stemming from society and culture that affect individual thoughts, behaviors, and emotions.

Gender

Gender refers to the roles, behaviors, activities, expectations, and societal norms constructed by society for individuals based on their sex, rather than the biological aspects of sex characteristics.