1A 'If You Can Keep It': American Values
Jul 7, 2025
Alana Ronlevy, managing director of Gallup, and David Brooks, opinion columnist for The New York Times, discuss the core values that define America. They reveal surprising survey insights showing family tops the list of priorities across demographics. The conversation touches on generational shifts in national pride, the intersection of faith and politics, and the role of organized religion in community cohesion. They also explore the tension between governmental support and civil society, highlighting how collective values influence the pursuit of the American dream.
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Family Tops American Values
- Family ranks as the top American value across political and demographic lines.
- Achievement-oriented values like wealth and beauty rank lowest among Americans.
Words vs. Moral Systems
- Stating values like faith or family doesn't reveal a person's moral value system.
- Donald Trump's values reflect strength and machismo, differing from traditional Christian ethics.
Trump and Pagan Values
- Trump's value system aligns with ancient Roman pagan ideals focused on power and conquest.
- His rise signals a loss of faith in traditional, compassionate values and institutions.