First, we ain't no stinkin' democracy. Second, all cultures decline and fall into tyranny or chaos. I've read somewhere (forgot where) that constitutional republics typically have a 200 year lifespan before they veer off into statism. I don't know if it's true, but all I can say is that all nations fall eventually. I believe we're sliding down in that direction.
Sounds plausible but I wonder how that 200 year lifespan is determined. There are not many constitutional republics that existed more than 200 years ago.
I belive Uncle Sam still has plenty of ole P*ss and Vinegar in him yet. We're fighting the good fight and right now we're doing alright. The trick is to stay focused, work hard, and give a bit more than we take out of the system.
I'm an optimist and I'm used to winning. And I know I'm not alone. All you have to do is look around this board.
Sliding? I think "plummeting" would be a more accurate word.