Rethinking American Exceptionalism

Today we’re talking about American exceptionalism: the idea that the United States is a uniquely virtuous nation and a “shining city on a hill.” It’s a belief that’s long shaped how the U.S. acts on the global stage and how Americans see themselves, the economy and democracy. In the aftermath of the U.S. presidential election, many Americans are questioning the idea of exceptionalism.

Journalist Suzy Hansen challenges the notion of American exceptionalism in her book “Notes on a Foreign Country: An American Abroad in a Post-American World.” On the show today, she explains where the idea of American exceptionalism comes from, how it has shaped today’s world, and why many Americans are disillusioned with it. Plus, is a new version of national pride the answer to the pitfalls of American exceptionalism?

Then, we’ll get into the creative ways the European Union is preparing for President-elect Donald Trump’s promised tariffs. Plus, perspectives from an American abroad and thoughts on mandatory national service.

Here’s everything we talked about today:

• “Unlearning the myth of American innocence” from The Guardian
• “Opinion | Is America a City on a Hill or a Nation on the Precipice?” from The New York Times
• “The End of American Exceptionalism: Trump’s Reelection Will Redefine U.S. Power” from Foreign Affairs
• “American Exceptionalism Is a Dangerous Myth” from Intelligencer
• “The US is leaving millions behind: American exceptionalism needs to change by 2030” from The Brookings Institution
• “Democrats look at late-night, weekend votes to confirm last Biden judicial nominees” from The Hill
• “Locked and loaded? The EU weapons to fight Trump’s trade war.” from Politico
• “Oil Glut Set to Thwart Trump’s Call to ‘Frack, Frack, Frack’” from Bloomberg

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