Countries and Cultures That Reflect Enneagram Types

United States of America (USA): Enneagram Type 3 Culture


Lokal_Profil, CC BY-SA 2.5 via Wikimedia Commons

Why we think the USA is a Type 3 culture

  • "The American Dream." This iconic concept embodies the values of ambition, success, and the belief that hard work leads to achievement and prosperity.

  • "Land of Opportunity." This phrase reflects the drive for success and the belief in the potential for self-improvement and achievement. The streets were historically supposed to be paved with gold!

  • The Bald Eagle. As the national symbol of the US, the bald eagle represents strength, freedom, the pursuit of excellence, and soaring above all others.

  • Hollywood. Hollywood, as the epicenter of the American and global film industry, is an icon of American culture. It places a significant emphasis on image, appearance, and success. At its core, Hollywood is about performance—whether in acting, directing, producing, or other roles. It has a “star culture” in its celebration of its stars through events like the Oscars and Golden Globes.

  • Silicon Valley. The innovation and entrepreneurial spirit of Silicon Valley exemplify the qualities of ambition, efficiency, and the pursuit of excellence.

  • Wall Street. The culture of Wall Street, which also symbolizes the culture of the U.S., emphasizes the pursuit of success, recognition, efficiency, wealth, and status. 

  • "Be All You Can Be." This slogan was used by the United States Army as a recruiting message. It encapsulates the drive for self-improvement, ambition, and the desire to reach one's full potential. It speaks to the idea of striving for excellence and achieving greatness.

  • Playing the hero on the world stage. The U.S. often takes the leadership role in international affairs, aiming to be seen as a powerful and successful nation that achieves its objectives. It also seeks to project an image of benevolence, a force for good, and a protector of freedom and democracy. The U.S. is the self-appointed policeman of world affairs.This iconic concept embodies the values of ambition, success, and the belief that hard work leads to achievement and prosperity.