Is the US really in decline?

Question

I have heard many people say that it is, but I really wonder if that is the case. After all, we are now the lone superpower of the world, though quite soon we will have to vie with China for the position. Of course, we have also had our share of depressions and recessions, but what great nation hasn't?

Answer 1

Being an economic superpower doesn't make us an ethical superpower. That is the arena in which we are declining. I would say Europe is now the moral center of "the West."

Incidentally, I noticed a doppleganger out there named 'Tamborine,' but she doesn't hold a candle to the original. ;)

Answer 2

When a country of empire stops governing for its members and governs for the rich elite, it begins to crumble.

At the end of the 19th century the sun never set on the largest Empire the world had ever seen, the British Empire. Within 50 years it had more or less passed into history.

This could happen to the US as well. The countries it helps, like South Korea or says it helps, like Iraq, hate the US.

Inside many people feel they are not part of the country, form gangs and engage in unorganised civil war.

Unlike other times, the US is alone in this. Europe is building its unity and strenght slowly. China's growth means the world economy is now controlled by China's development more than any other region (even if the money and the profits go to other countries) and China has proved it can solve its internal problems and maintain growth for more than 20 years.

Don't be fooled, the collapse is not necessarily far away. It could happen.

Answer 3

The CIA list the USA as number 8 on the per capita income list. Europe has bypassed the USA in overall GDP in 2005 with 13,5 Trillon to 12,5 Trillion. China had (after corrected to living expenses) a GDP of 10,5 Trillion (CIA Handbook).
At least 6 other countries have nuclear long range missiles, which can reach the USA. China has 10 times more troops then the USA. What lone super power?

Answer 4

Yes! The U.S. lags behind some other countries in many measures. Just don't ask the politicos. They lie in order to make the citizenry feel better about themselves and their country.

Answer 5

How can people say that the government governs for the rich elite and that that started in the 1970s when most US citizens are richer today than the elite were then?

Answer 6

Education - yes
Income - yes
Highways - yes
Respect - BIG YES

Military - No or so we are told

Overall I'd say decline is real.

Answer 7

Nope.
Its now a fad to be un-american.