The Good in American Culture: 30 December 2012: Philosophy in Action

The Good in American Culture

Q&A Radio: Sunday, 30 December 2012, Question 1

In the live broadcast of Philosophy in Action Radio on 30 December 2012, I answered a question on the good in American culture.

How is American culture better today better than people think? I've heard lots of depressing claims about the abysmal state of American culture lately, particularly since Obama won the election. You've disputed that, arguing that America is better in its fundamentals that many people think. What are some of those overlooked but positive American values? How can they be leveraged for cultural and political change?

My Answer, In Brief: American culture, while not perfect, is so much better than most people realize. Notice, enjoy, and promote that goodness!

Tags: Activism, America, Apocalypticism, Business, Culture, Ethics, Politics, Rights, Technology

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Relevant Links

Philosophy in Action: Dr. Eric Daniels on Progress in American History, Q&A: Pursuing Personal Values in an Imperfect World, and Q&A: The 2012 Election Results
The Spectator: Why 2012 was the best year ever
No Flying Cars, but the Future Is Bright by Virginia Postrel
Christmas shopping: 1958 vs. 2012 by Mark Perry
It's Getting Better All the Time: 100 Greatest Trends of the Last 100 Years by Stephen Moore and Julian Simon and The Ultimate Resource 2 by Julian Simon
The Car Stuck in Ice in China by Robert Garmong
Society at a Glance 2011: OECD Social Indicators

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About Philosophy in Action Radio

I'm Dr. Diana Hsieh. I'm a philosopher specializing the application of rational principles to the challenges of real life. I received my Ph.D in philosophy from the University of Colorado at Boulder in 2009. My dissertation defended moral responsibility and moral judgment against the doubts raised by Thomas Nagel's "problem of moral luck."

My radio show, Philosophy in Action Radio, broadcasts live over the internet on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. On Sunday mornings, I answer four meaty questions applying rational principles to the challenges of real life in a live hour-long show. Greg Perkins of Objectivist Answers co-hosts the show. On Wednesday evenings, I interview an expert guest about a topic of practical importance.

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