The 'Horatio Alger Myth' in Texas

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204528204577011652396660864.html

This article discusses the presidential candidate Rick Perry, a man who has been the governor of Texas for the past eleven years, in relation to the financial success of his state. Texas has indeed proven to be one of the most economically successful states within America; with an output apparently exceeding that of many countries a similar size. Though, much of this is due to a steady influx of people with money to spend, and the relocation of several large companies. For example, 'In 1990, one of the world's biggest companies, Exxon Mobil, left New York City for Dallas.'

The question of why this is happening is discussed within the article, and aside from the obvious differences in taxation and overall cheaper company costing, it is apparent that 'working amid a culture of competence' is also of great importance. The community within Texas is viewed as hard-working, with the ability of 'getting things done and doing them well.' New York is depicted as 'a notoriously overbearing tax authority' with a disputable work ethic, much in contradictory juxtaposition to Alger's representation of the city within 'Ragged Dick'. Meaning, the opportunity to gain social mobility exists in contemporary Texas, but no longer in New York.

Though, despite this difference in location, the understanding one develops of Texans because 'they believe in the whole Horatio Alger myth' is especially significant when compared with the knowledge obtained from reading 'Ragged Dick'. The Texans are described as having an attitude of 'we have to make do with what we have and work together to get things done and survive' which is reminiscent of Dick's treatment of fellow boot shiners, or other street children. Dick helps those he views as less fortunate than himself, despite his lowly circumstances - in return, Dick is helped by those more fortunate than himself. Also, hard work by any means possible is an ideology developed and nurtured within the novel, and represented here by the Texans.

Another instance of accurate recognition to the Alger myth which can be gained from reading this article is the reference to The Irving Chamber of Commerce, and the instant help companies received upon arrival in Texas. They are described as having provided 'orientation sessions for employees and spouses, even helping with new-house searches. Or "little things"' in effect, going the extra mile to help and make companies feel welcome. This echoes the idea of assisting people to the best of your ability, and also reveals how just one person showing kindness can improve the lot of another.

The article then goes on to explain how people enjoy working in Texas, and even with the recent lay-offs they have experienced, many choose to stay within the state because 'It seems everyone in Texas high-tech knows everyone, and if they can help each other, they will.' This example of people not wanting to leave such an enterprising place, despite their possibly low income, resonates with the choice some of the young boys in 'Ragged Dick' make to stay in New York. As though the City itself is responsible for their hopes and dreams, and is where they are most likely to succeed.

Texas' future prospects are very much attributed to their belief in the 'Horatio Alger myth' producing a better work ethic, and therefore a more economically prosperous and stable community. This is in keeping with the ideas presented in 'Ragged Dick' that through hard work and honesty, prosperity can be won; therefore, social mobility is not dependant on your circumstances at birth, rather your ability to integrate and grasp opportunities made available to you.