Renewing American Culture

The rapid, interlinked dynamics of globalization, smart technologies, and the growth of knowledge have created a perfect storm of change. In the face of these changes and challenges, this book asks: are we facing sunset or dawn? The authors find a clear vision and new significance in the Declaration of Independence, especially in the idea of the "pursuit of happiness." The book connects emerging global change with the pursuit of happiness and shows that change today is not only consistent with this principle, but in fact caused by it. The book also provides a fresh understanding of the roots of current fears about the future, as well as those who criticize Americas culture and society. The authors find that these efforts to create a critical, "counter-narrative" to the pursuit of happiness are derived from systems of ideas that are no longer defensible in todays world. The book argues that it is time to reclaim the civic space that is too often held hostage by "civic vandals"; the need to radically rethink and renew the relationships among business, government, education, and non-profit institutions has never been more pressing There is a great hunger for a culture based on a renewed, broadened, and intellectually charged affirmation of life and the pursuit of happiness. Cultural and academic leaders in particular need to embrace change; business and government leaders, too, need to understand better the humanistic and moral purposes that direct commerce and policy. The emerging idea of "spiritual capital" is critical to this new understanding. The book centers on three key questions: 1) What are the core values of American culture and the humanities? 2) Why do they have to be renewed?