Fwd: The End of Exceptionalism

In review of Mr. Fareed Zakaria's report on "The End of Exceptionalism," Mr. Zakaria highlights many factors that would lead us to believe that the United States has lost/losing their exceptionalism. However, I believe that the paradigm is shifting in the way business is being conducted in the United States and the world. As globalization continues to progress and integrate countries, there are additional factors that need to be considered for setting standards in globalization. 

• Our Judicial System
• Our Labor Laws
• Our Financial Reporting Requirements

In regards to "Closing the Gate" is it not our right as a country to know everyone going threw our borders! The French and the Germans have been battling this for centuries!

In review of the countries that welcome us; Nigeria, Bangladesh, India and Brazil, do we not often stimulate their economies. More importantly, these economies are emerging or are in an industrial progression. If we can not protect our borders, establish order and sustain a balanced economy, our nation would crumble to the ground. (Has history not taught us that?) 

With the survey of the United States lagging in social approval or acceptance of "civil unions" or "gay marriage," I would imagine, though we are lagging, we are still increasing year after year. The significance of the data would illustrate our continuous progress to embracing social diversity. Though, the data may illustrate a lagging or lower increase rate, I believe that our personal freedoms give us the liberty to build awareness and remove any restrictions on a person's religion, sex, race or personal relationship. As we have in the past, overcome those hurdles that divided our nation.

In the statement, "Two out of three Americans believe in protecting the environment even if it slows economic growth. The number is about the same for the French and the Japanese. " Would it be fair to say that we are exceptional with U.S. private equity efforts in establishing "Green Funds' (Investments that demonstrate social responsibility, alternative energy, etc).  Are they not a reflection of exceptional efforts? Since 1973, a great U.S. company, Timberland has been enabling consumers and employees to give back to the earth. This is a company that is able to make a profit and give back to the world! 

I concur with your highlight on the spread of capitalism! If like anything else, not taken to an extreme can be a good thing! But, we as a nation enable the entrepreneur, even if they are not from the United States. We pride on giving people the opportunity and to chance their dreams. Capitalism and the entrepreneur spirit will change the paradigm and promote innovation. In part of globalization, this must spread beyond our borders.

In the Race for 2008, our next President must be prepared to face the change of how does America continue to be the exceptionalist in our global economy. If we were to look at the global players, I can not envision any other country to lead the global revolution than the United States of America.

As we come to closure with 2007 and enter 2008, which we believe a pivotal year for the world, I think your report enhances the importance of our next election and the decision we all have to make a year from now!

We need a person that can lead our nation in this globalization revolution. 

EAD 11/22/07

----------------------------------------------------------

Fareed Zakaria - Newsweek

To come full circle, capitalism, our diversity, the entrepreneur spirit and vision of prosperity will enable us as a nation to lead the paradigm shift in the globalization revolution.      

The United States has always thought of itself as exceptional, but nowadays we are standing apart for the wrong things.

  

Read more…