The Decline of the West

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The Decline of the West Write an essay (900-1200 words) in which you analyse and interpret Hanif Kureishi’s short story “The Decline of the west”. Part of your essay must focus on the short story’s point of view and on the title. Is it possible for a social system to become perfect for all the citizens? Capitalism is often considered to be the economic system to improve and accomplish a good life. But there are many different views and opinions about capitalism, and not all of them are quite positive toward this socio-economic system, even though capitalism has been proven time and time again to lead the greatest standard of living for many citizens. Capitalism also allows for individual advancement, growth of state and especially consumerism. But some theories claim that the consumer society can be described more as a “market” than a society, and that the individuals only are able to achieve happiness in their consumption. This consumer-culture has a negative effect on the individuals’ social lives. For example; how will it affect the family life, if people only find satisfactions in the stuff they buy, or if the materialistic values conquer personal relations? And how is there gonna be time for parenting, if people are focusing too much on their career and job instead of their kids? The consequences of materialistic values and the capitalistic society are reflected in the short story “The Decline of the West” written by the English novelist Hanif Kureishi. In the introduction, we are introduced to Mike, who is the main character of the story. He is described as a busy man, who rarely sees his family and the story starts with an in-medias-res of Mike, who comes home from work, where he has been fired. This has caused several problems and complications in his family, which also explains why he hoped and was looking forward to come home and receive a warm greeting

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