Analysis of The Pursuit of Happyness Through a Sociological Lens

The film “The Pursuit of Happyness,” directed by Gabrielle Muccino, depicts the true-life experiences of Chris Gardner as he faces numerous obstacles. He struggles to overcome these challenges to create a better life not only for himself but also for his son after his wife leaves him. Evicted from his home with little money, Chris takes an unpaid internship, which exacerbates his financial difficulties. Despite these hurdles, he perseveres with persistence and determination to achieve his goal of becoming a stockbroker. Chris Gardner’s life can be viewed through a sociological perspective, especially in relation to Functional Analysis Theory, Social Mobility, and Symbolic Interactionism Theory.

Analysis of Social Class and Mobility

The division of class has been an integral part of American culture for centuries. Society creates social stratification based on individuals’ access to resources and power, which becomes evident in Chris’s work environment at Dean Witter. Those with higher educational qualifications and experience occupy more influential positions, such as Jay Twistle, a manager at the company. Initially, Mr. Twistle dismisses Chris, doubting his capability in handling numbers or people. However, during a taxi ride, Mr. Twistle becomes impressed by Chris’s skill in quickly solving a Rubik’s cube and offers him an interview for the Dean Witter training program. This internship acts as a gateway for Chris to gain new professional knowledge and eventually secure a job offer—though only one out of twenty interns would be selected. This aspect highlights the functionalist viewpoint, where only the most competent individuals succeed in a competitive environment.

Chris’s experience also exemplifies social mobility: he transitions from being homeless to achieving economic stability through a high-paying job. His determination to move up the social ladder manifests in actions like waiting outside the company to speak with Mr. Twistle, emphasizing his eagerness to prove himself. During his internship, Chris struggles with poverty, at one point finding his belongings outside a motel room and resorting to donating blood for money. Ultimately, he obtains a position at Dean Witter, moving from the bottom rung of society to a higher social class by hard work and resilience. Eventually, Chris Gardner becomes a millionaire entrepreneur of his own investment firm, Gardner Rich and Co., and works as a motivational speaker.

Symbolic interactionism is illustrated through Chris’s pursuit of the American Dream. The film shows how interactions and societal views influence self-perception. Society often labels the lower class as having low self-esteem. Chris, however, accepts his starting point while remaining convinced he can achieve more. His wife, Linda, cannot cope with their precarious financial situation and leaves. Symbolic interactionism suggests that those at the “top” of the social ladder have earned their status through diligence, while those at the “bottom” are often viewed as lacking skills. Chris’s belief that perseverance pays off is demonstrated in a scene where he advises his son never to let anyone discourage him from his aspirations.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the film incorporates numerous sociological elements. Chris proves his capacity to alter his economic status and better provide for his family. The function of class and status within the story reveals the extent to which success can be achieved through dedication and skill. Ultimately, a person’s social standing does not dictate their inherent value. “The Pursuit of Happyness” illustrates that, with determination and focus, anyone can strive toward and potentially attain the American Dream.

References
Muccino, G. (Director). (2006). The Pursuit of Happyness [Film]. Columbia Pictures.
Macionis, J. J. (2018). Sociology (16th ed.). Pearson.