[Torie]

Well yes I remain optimistic. I am an optimist. It is who I am. I simply think that what doesn't work because it fails to speak to ultimate human needs and ideolism will fail everywhere, and what does will ultimately triumph (perhaps with much blood, sweat and toil along the way as we have experienced), particularly for so long as the US remains the lone superpower on this planet.

[PhilDragoo]

what doesn't work because it fails to speak to ultimate human needs and ideolism will fail everywhere

The Sorcerer's Stone which dispatched Communism will likewise consign Islamism.

Freedom of religion, free markets, political freedoms are manifestations of enlightened self interest.

That which is best is that which is best for the individual.