We Can And Will Do Better
I am constantly searching for a good set of metrics to evaluate the performance of Brand America on the world scene. In the past, I have written about several.
PAST POSTS
Brand America Repeats As The #1 Most Admired Nation
Brand America’s Global Ranking
The Changing American Dream – Back to the Future
Is Brand America’s Promise Losing Authenticity?
Brand America’s Global Competitiveness Declined in 2008
This is a topic I find concerning. But to be honest, a good friend raised my concern even further after I watched a new, short (3:26) video he sent to me.
As background, this video is the beginning scene of an HBO series entitled “The Newroom”. It depicts a town hall meeting where a college student asks the seemingly innocent question – “Can you tell me what makes America the greatest nation?” The answer is disquieting.
YouTube Video titled – The Most honest 3 Minutes of Television, EVER (caution, some strong language)
In addition to watching the video, take a few minutes to skim the comments that viewers wrote. The reaction is certainly polarizing.
One viewer suggested George Carlin’s lecture on the American Dream was even better. Here is a link to it so you can judge. Both strike emotional chords and in my opinion both are very polarizing.
George Carlin – The America Dream (caution, some strong language)
MY TWO CENTS
Candidly, the videos made me very uncomfortable. I can’t argue with the factual data presented, but I am not sure I agree with the doomsday sentiment. My sleep loss issue is that the speeches may be more directionally right than I am willing to accept.
I am personally far more optimistic than these two videos. But I do agree that we need to, can, and will do better.
Brand America is facing a real challenge. It is important we determine how to succeed in an increasingly competitive and globally interdependent world. Many of the systems and processes we have in place today are optimized for winning in this new world order. Consequently, we need to productively address the shortcomings and move forward with confidence.
One thing I do believe strongly is that the promise of Brand America is as relevant and competitive today as the day our nation was created. When we do strengthen the authenticity, then the legacy we leave will be remarkable not sad.
YOUR TWO CENTS?
What is your reaction to the two videos? What are your thoughts on positive steps we can take to improve the probability of success for Brand America? The only thing i I ask is that you please try your best to ensure your comments are constructive and as apolitical as possible. My goal is to stimulate practical suggestions on how to improve Brand America’s global competitiveness for foreign direct investment. It is not my intention to create a political debate. Thanks in advance for your consideration.
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