The Multifaceted Failures of the American Educational and Societal System

It's not just the sporadic school shootings that reveal America's greatest failure. As we critically evaluate the current state of affairs, it becomes evident that there are numerous systemic issues that need to be addressed.

Is the Greatest Failure the Inability to Protect Children at School?

Some argue that the inability to protect children at school is the most significant failure. While this is a valid concern, it is a symptom of a larger systemic issue. The true failure lies in the fact that our education system often fails to provide basic educational necessities, such as reading, writing, and arithmetic.

Systemic Educational Failures

Beyond the immediate issue of safety, many graduates do not possess the fundamental skills necessary for everyday life. This raises the question of whether we, as a society, are failing to prioritize the core elements of education. It’s a choice to defer to lower standards, rather than striving for excellence in our educational system.

Societal Dysfunction: More Than Gun Violence

Gun violence in schools is indeed a disturbing reality, but it is far from the only indicator of a dysfunctional society. There are numerous other systemic issues that contribute to this broader failure, including:

Overabundance of Obesity: The prevalence of obesity in America is a significant concern that needs to be addressed. Factors contributing to this issue include poor nutrition, lack of physical activity, and the pervasive use of fast food and processed foods. Infrastructure Issues: Poor infrastructure, such as roads, further highlights the neglect of certain societal needs. This can have a detrimental impact on daily life and economic productivity. Lack of Access to Healthcare: The lack of free healthcare remains a significant issue, with many Americans struggling to afford medical care. This is a reflection of broader socioeconomic disparities and inadequate healthcare policies. Tuition and Debt: The high cost of tuition and the resulting student debt are contributing to a generation burdened with financial stress, hindering their ability to pursue further education and living a fulfilling life. Political and Governmental Issues: The political climate in the USA is fraught with problematic issues such as the Trump era, political polarization, and a flawed electoral system. The excessive influence of money in politics, issues with the legislative process, and ongoing debates about healthcare and immigration highlight the dysfunctions within the governmental system.

Reconciliation with Societal Banality and Exceptionalism

America's failure is not just in its inability to protect children at school, but in its inability to reconcile itself with its banality and lack of exceptionalism. The excessive celebration of "American Exceptionalism" has become a tired mantra that excuses every failure, appetite fault, and excess. This has allowed the country to become a nation of petulant adolescents, loudly proclaiming their "literally-God-given rights" to guns, cheap gas, low taxes, and free expression without any corresponding responsibilities to behave like the adults who deserve these liberties.

Conclusion

The issues within the American educational and societal system are multifaceted and deeply entrenched. From the inability to protect children at school to systemic failures in healthcare, education, infrastructure, and government, America faces a complex array of challenges. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach, involving policymakers, educators, and citizens alike.