How America Fractured Into Four Parts

11/4/2021

In this thought-provoking article, George Packer explores the concept of America's divided identity by examining four distinct narratives that have shaped the nation. He highlights the struggles and challenges faced by each of these narratives: Free America, which emphasizes individualism and self-reliance; Smart America, which values education and expertise; Real America, which champions traditional values and nostalgia; and Just America, which focuses on social justice and equality. Packer delves into the historical, cultural, and political factors that have contributed to the fragmentation of these narratives and the increasing polarization within the country. Through a careful analysis of these four Americas, he offers a nuanced perspective on the complexities and contradictions of American society, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of the forces that divide and bind us as a nation.

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