American Exceptionalism

The leaders of the United States often talk about America in terms of being the "best," "biggest," "special," "the greatest," or other language indicating that we are exceptional. This exceptionalism is a brainwashing tactic to keep people from thinking for themselves. We are not exceptional -- and our belief in this despite mounting evidence (lagging test scores and schools, a failing economy, huge discrepancy in income), is what is actually preventing us from improving.

Vladimir Putin, President of Russia, recently wrote for the New York Times, and I think he really stresses this point well: 

"I would rather disagree with a case he[President Obama] made on American exceptionalism, stating that the United States’ policy is 'what makes America different. It’s what makes us exceptional.' It is extremely dangerous to encourage people to see themselves as exceptional, whatever the motivation. There are big countries and small countries, rich and poor, those with long democratic traditions and those still finding their way to democracy. Their policies differ, too. We are all different, but when we ask for the Lord’s blessings, we must not forget that God created us equal."

Countries and policies are different, but by spoon-feeding exceptionalism do your citizens since early elementary school, you are not doing anyone any favors. 

--Megan