Once upon a time a time -- 1861-65 to be more exact -- the United States had another president from Illinois. Those lost in the present may consider that long ago, a piece of ancient history of no relevance to today's oh-so-advanced, oh-so-high-tech economy and society. For what could today's experts, technicians, pundits and poobahs possibly have to learn from a long-ago president in a stovepipe hat who by now has become more caricature than guide? Such is the arrogance of the self-absorbed present, and why it so often leads to a failed future. For despite all their expertise, our...