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28-08-2017 | Feature Article

American Power: The Challenge Within

Author: Lawrence M. Mead

Published in: Society | Issue 5/2017

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Abstract

The main threat to continued American leadership abroad is social problems at home. These include poverty and the decline of the working class, both of them caused initially by falling levels of work and marriage. Policymakers have traditionally tried to counter these trends by changing social benefits and incentives, but the problems are really cultural, reflecting a decline in individualism. The best answer is more structured schools and social programs that promote the disciplines essential to a free society, especially working. Immigration should also be reduced and more money spent on education, to promote assimilation. Despite Donald Trump’s election, consensus has built supporting such measures.

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Title: American Power: The Challenge Within
Author: Lawrence M. Mead
Publication date: 28-08-2017
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Society / Issue 5/2017
Print ISSN: 0147-2011
Electronic ISSN: 1936-4725
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12115-017-0178-x

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