"Earlier Romans knew what it was to be Roman, why it was at least better than the alternative, and why their culture had to be defended. Later in ignorance they forgot what they knew, in pride mocked who they were, and in consequence disappeared."
Of course the message is that, in time, Earlier Americans knew what it was to be American. ... Later in ignorance they forgot what they knew, in pride mocked who they were, and in consequence disappeared.
I find it interesting that many to the "right" (ideologically speaking) in this country seem to revel in the ignorance of thinking America is the Alpha and Omega of human experience.
Our culture, will in time, just as many great civilizations before, one day be a mere foot note in the history of humankind. I am only mildly curious as to how, in 2000 years from now, the historians of that time will report our current events and cultural devolution.
The example of Rome, in short, is an apt one, but in a way unintended by critics who use passing contemporary events as occasions for venting a permanent, irrational and often visceral distrust of their own society. Their creed is really a malady, and it cries out to be confronted and exposed.
Our "betters" are rich in public-relations power. But if they need recourse against an actual threat, they need Marines just like the rest of us. Their pride does not admit that; hence as Rush pointed out yesterday Joe Lieberman announced that he would run for president to protect Americans' values and attend to their--not our but "their"--security.