America, unlike so much of Europe, does not have a long history of notable and/or noble families who have served the State for so many generations. We do not have a history of producing and respecting great philosophers, such as Hagel, Kant, Nietzsche, Voltaire, Hume, etc. In fact, the closest thing to a group of philosophers that we have ever produced was our Founding Fathers who are held up to ridicule by so many of our self-appointed elites today. There are those in the Ivory Towers of universities, those in many of the newsrooms and even political leaders who look down on the great mass of American citizens and think of them as rubes and deplorables who do not understand that only these same elites know what is best for the nation. And yet, it is the great gray mass of our citizens that have and continue to create the jobs and means for the next generation to go further and create an even better life for themselves. It is that very gray mass that creates the wealth that is such a magnet for millions around the world. Why is that? It is because the mass of Americans are mediocre; they simply do not realize and do not believe that they are gifted or chosen. They succeed because they do not know what obstacles are before them and do not believe they will fail. American is great and was built on a system of mediocracy, a place where the mass of citizens simply tries; tries to survive, tries to create a business, ties to be the best they can be. If you tried and failed, then you were encouraged to try again, and again until you succeed or quit. For much of our history, government pretty well stayed out of the way of those who tried although we see more rules, and more regulations as an ever expanding government at all levels attempts to justify their very existence.
This is not true in Europe. Europe developed a bureaucratic and elitist mindset that was shunned by our Founding Fathers; America has traditionally encouraged entrepreneurs, Europe does not. It takes a brave European to attempt to become an entrepreneur. The laws for incorporation are more difficult than in America and, if you should fail with your dream in Europe, getting a second chance is much more difficult and possible only after a number of years.
The linked article discusses this concept of American mediocracy. It has resulted in more freedom, an easier life, and more choices for all. Let us hope that “those who know better”, stay in their Ivory Towers and newsrooms. While they are untouchable and will continue to tell us how we should live, but at least we can try to defend ourselves against the professional politicians who write laws and regulations to guide those whose lives they little understand. If we are successful, we will help to create a better union, a better land for all.
https://www.firstthings.com/article/2022/11/a-more-perfect-mediocracy
