Is America collapsing like Ancient Rome?

This book traces the development and use of the rhetoric of Roman decline and renewal from the Roman Republic to the present day. It explores how this narrative has been employed by various figures, including Roman politicians, Christian emperors, and modern leaders, to justify power, blame others for decline, and promise renewal. The book covers the historical context of Roman decline and fall, its impact on Western history, and its continued relevance in contemporary discourse.

In this ground-breaking book, Katy Milkman reveals a proven path to help readers move from where they are to where they want to be. Drawing on her original research and the work of her world-renowned scientific collaborators, Milkman shares strategic methods for identifying and overcoming common barriers to change, such as impulsivity, procrastination, and forgetfulness. The book offers innovative approaches like 'temptation bundling,' using timely reminders, and creating 'set-it-and-forget-it systems' to make change more achievable. It emphasizes the importance of tailoring solutions to specific roadblocks and using science to stack the deck in favor of successful change.

In 'Mortal Republic,' Edward J. Watts provides a detailed history of the Roman Republic's collapse. He argues that the Republic's demise was not inevitable but rather the result of thousands of small wounds inflicted by Romans who assumed the system would last forever. Watts chronicles how Rome's leaders increasingly pursued individual gain and obstructed their opponents, leading to political violence, civil wars, and ultimately the rise of the imperial reign of Augustus. The book highlights the parallels between ancient Rome's political struggles and contemporary issues, such as wealth inequality, partisan gridlock, and the threat of centralized power.