The American Dream – loosely defined as upward mobility achieved through hard work – forms the cornerstone of America’s national ethos, held aloft by everyone from F. Scott Fitzgerald to Bruce Springsteen. But according to a recent poll of Gen Yers, for many the dream is dead.

Socially, we like to believe that hard graft is more valuable than natural talent; that 1% of inspiration is important, but it’s the 99% of perspiration that really counts. But when it comes to investors, studies suggest the allure of raw talent regularly wins out over a safe pair of hands.

As having a strong work ethic is increasingly valued and respected, being hard-working no longer means you’re a geek. On the contrary, it's becoming a preferable lifestyle choice.

How are citizen journalists challenging traditional media? Why are grandparents becoming a more important part of the family? And why are students under more pressure than ever? This Cultural Snapshot uses local statistics and case studies to explore the behavioural norms shared by Americans in 2016.