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Published in:
2017 | OriginalPaper | Chapter
1. A Divided and Selfish Nation: A United States of America No More
Authors : Robert E. Denton Jr, Benjamin Voth
Published in: Social Fragmentation and the Decline of American Democracy
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
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Abstract
This chapter discusses the social fragmentation and political polarization in America. Public cynicism and distrust toward government and politics continues to grow with concerns about the coarseness, rudeness, and decline in ethics in society. Today’s postmodern and narcissistic culture has social, cultural, and political implications. We have lost the notion of the social contract, an essential element of democracy and self-rule. Its demise leads to the loss of individual freedom and security and rise of inequality. Our culture is dominated by psychological egoism where all interest is self-interest, contributing to the decline of civility and the erosion of trust and support in government and politicians.