ARHU-American Studies

Topic Three: The Ideal Home?

Authors of American domestic advice literature and architecture have made the
argument for the past 150 years that there is a strong correlation between the “correct” physical environment of the home and its surrounds and the "proper" rearing of children. Would you agree or disagree taking into consideration the cultural categories of class, race, gender, ethnicity, and sexuality? Also, Designing Domesticity refers to large suburban estates as McMansions. Do you consider this a fair appellation? What is your opinion on gated communities and suburban sprawl.