There is no denying America’s remarkable historic success in innovation, cultural influence, and sheer economic power. However, it has also faced issues like excessive profit-seeking, environmental neglect, social inequality, and, of late, an increasingly shaky democracy. Can America’s greatness overcome its greed?
The United States values freedom, equality, and democracy. Its greatness lies in its foundational values, resilience, and role as a global leader. Yet, this same nation often pursues wealth and power at the expense of ethics and justice. This greed shows up in various ways, from corporate interests influencing politics to a culture of consumerism that too often values material wealth over community well-being.
To acknowledge America’s flaws is more patriotic than nationalists would like you to believe. Hypocrisy, violence, and power struggles have marked our history, from slavery to the genocide of Indigenous peoples, the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, to the “othering” du jour of whichever group of marginalized people are deemed unworthy of the melting pot. These injustices continue to affect society and contribute to resurgences of vitriolic hatred and bigotry. Deep economic inequality, mass incarceration, political polarization, gun violence, and a cadre of other normalized dysfunctions also challenge this nation’s better ideals.
Income inequality is a stark indicator of America’s struggle with greed. The gap between the rich and the poor has widened dramatically. The top 1% of wealth-holders control much of the nation’s resources. At the same time, many Americans struggle to make ends meet, a condition not bestowed upon our neighbors because of avocado toast, laziness, or the desire to consume overpriced and underflavored coffee. Millions live in poverty, a gross undermining of the principles of fairness and opportunity that America claims to uphold.
Despite these challenges, there remains hope, as fleeting as it may seem. Changes in societal values, especially among younger generations, are leading to a reevaluation of what constitutes success and happiness. This cultural shift from materialism to more interconnected measures of well-being may drive needed transformation. Growing awareness and activism around issues like climate change, income inequality, and corporate accountability show the public’s desire to address and reduce the impacts of greed.
Effective government policies and regulations are crucial in curbing American avarice. Historical measures like antitrust laws, environmental regulations, and social safety nets have shown that legislative action can balance the scales. Despite the political climate, future success will depend on enacting and enforcing similar measures—a complex and necessary task.
America’s strength in innovation can also help. There is a growing trend toward social responsibility in business practices. Consumers and investors are beginning to value ethical and sustainable practices and hold companies accountable. The rise of renewable energy technologies now addresses environmental concerns while facilitating economic growth. Social entrepreneurship highlights the potential for businesses to drive positive social change and remain profitable.
The path forward is not easy—it is more difficult this week than last. Overcoming America’s greed requires a collective effort from individuals, communities, and institutions to prioritize values that align with our nation’s nobelist ideals while operating in our current reality. This crucial work begins with citizen introspection and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths about our society.
We must recognize that greatness is less about accumulating wealth and more about the strength of our communities, the fairness of our systems, and the compassion we show to one another. Success may be measured by capital, but fulfillment is achieved through realizing our better angels, improving the quality of our lives, and the health of our planet.
America’s greatness has the potential to overcome its greed. Still, addressing the systemic issues that allow greed to flourish will require effort and a monumental shift to act upon our shared values and democratic priorities. We must embrace the version of greatness that is inclusive, sustainable, and rooted in the common good.
We must endeavor to forge a more perfect union than the founding fathers envisioned and not cling to them as though the world and the human condition have not advanced. We must trust that we are better, acting and leading in the community’s best interests, not self-interest. That community encompasses the smallest families and the largest governable organizations.
As we reflect on the past 248 years and look beyond the bleakness that clouds our view of the future, let’s take solace in knowing that productive change is always possible. Let’s find inspiration from the resilience and progress that have defined the positive side of the ledger in America’s history and commit to building a more equitable and compassionate society. Only by doing so can we ensure that America’s greatness is never again overshadowed by its greed but remains a beacon of freedom, innovation, compassion, possibility, and everpresent hope for future generations, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.