American Exceptionalism and the Fading American Dream

October 15th, 2012 by Catherine Crier

To admit that problems exist is not a denial of American exceptionalism; instead, it is a proclamation that our “can do” spirit is alive an well, that we can tackle and solve any issue. Howard Steven Friedman’s new book, The Measure of a Nation, pits ideas about American exceptionalism against hard data on where we actually stand among the international community.

The promise of the American Dream has been fading for quite some time, but as a nation, we are wonderfully, stubbornly optimistic and have kept the faith. What do you think—is the American Dream still within reach?

From Truthout

“The Measure of a Nation” Challenges Illusions of American Superiority

By Arthur Goldwag, Truthout

USA, number /></p><p><em>Book Review: Author Howard Steven Friedman compared the US with 13 competing countries on health, education, infant mortality, life expectancy and other critical social and economic indicators. He found only one in which America excels: producing billionaires.</em></p><p>In his book, “No Apology: The Case for American Greatness,” Mitt Romney laid his cards on the table: “I’m one of those who believe America is destined to remain as it has been since the birth of the Republic – the brightest hope of the world.”</p><p>Obama’s reluctance to acknowledge America’s manifest moral and economic superiority is for Romney a telltale of his essential foreignness. “American prosperity is fully dependent upon having an opportunity society – I don’t think President Obama understands that,” he told the Republican Jewish Coalition last Pearl Harbor Day. “I don’t think he understands why our economy is the most successful in the world. I don’t think he understands America.”</p><p>Romney and his fellow Exceptionalists believe that America isn’t just envied for its wealth, but for its health; they regard the US medical system (assuming that Obamacare is abolished) as the best in the world. Our public schools might come in for some bashing, but they blame extrinsic factors like affirmative action, political correctness and Democratic Party-friendly teachers’ unions for their failures. The best way to guarantee peace, they believe, whether at home or abroad, is by superior firepower. And they harbor no doubts whatsoever that America is the most democratic nation in the world, where everyone has a voice and anyone can become as wealthy as they.</p><p>Granted, Romney abides in a bubble of privilege and partisan politics and has long communicated in pre-packaged talking points. But this is a man, remember, who prides himself on his hardheadedness and business savvy. He hasn’t always been a politician, after all. He earned his reputation – not to mention his personal fortune – as a management consultant.</p><p>Page 1 of 5 | <a href=Next page

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