American Unilateralism: Re: City on a Hill?

» mikeohara - Re: City on a Hill?

Michael:

I think the metaphore means a great deal more than you seem to believe.

First, I don't think it is appropriate to think of the matter purely in economic terms. But, if we look at the economics for just a moment, whatever the plight of America's lower class, it lives a substantially better life than much of the world's middle class.

And, if you think of the city on the hill metaphor as including an acceptance if not promotion of fundamental human rights and the legitimate opportunity to achieve your dreams, few places on earth remotely compare to the US.

Furthermore, we achieve these marvels in a uniquely American way. Contrary to the rants of conservatives (sorry Frank) the extent of American government's involvement in domestic matters is quite modest. For countries in the world who "get it" our methodology of combining capitalism and regulation is the gold standard to which all others aspire. It is the mechanism that delivered the American Century (with which we are not yet done) and leaves America the world's only superpower.

Wm. Friedman uses this analogy. Ten years ago every kid in America wanted to be like Michael Jordan. Well, we are the Michael Jordan of the world. In many ways the rest of the world now sings how it wants to be "Like Mike".

-- posted by mikeohara