| After witnessing a physically handicapped man in a NYC Fire Department t-shirt apply for Social Security benefits at an office in Harlem, I was prompted to discuss the role of individualism and the ‘American Dream’ in modern American politics with a friend. We agreed that libertarian principles and concepts of upward social mobility could be valuable for the promotion of ingenuity and innovation. But remaining devoted to these ideals while veterans, public service people and disadvantaged individuals struggle on a daily basis is naïve, disheartening, and frankly, in my opinion, ‘unAmerican’, if the U.S. prides itself on its image as a global leader and a champion of justice.
While the American ethos is valuable political currency for the sense of patriotism and belonging it instills in American citizens, pious adherence to the vague principles embodied in the ‘liberal consensus’ can serve to constrain public welfare, necessary institutional challenge and national growth. |