This is the first of two class discussions. The objective is to engage with your fellow classmates on topics revolving around the themes in the readings and lectures. You are expected to post an initial response to a The discussions are worth 10 points: 5 points for your initial answer and then 5 points for your critical response to a fellow student’s answer. : A major theme in the debate over the causes of the rise of capitalism in the U.S. is the supposedly individualist and market-oriented culture of Americans. Do you think that this is why capitalism developed so quickly and successfully in the U.S.? : Suppose we did not have a large influx of Irish immigrants in the 1840s. How do you think American capitalism would have looked different (or the same)?: Do you think American growth would still have been as rapid and successful in the 19th century if American courts more actively shunned eminent domain and took a more secure or strict view on property rights? reply to another student’s response in a critical way by disagreeing with their response, and elaborating on your point of disagreement. Think of it as ”playing devil’s advocate”. You must be critical in your response.You must keep all of your work on this discussion civil, articulate, and well-informed. You will be graded on the quality of your work and its relevance to the topic and readings.