Trumps power depends on the myth of America as dystopia
WRITTEN BY
Anastasia Edel
Donald Trump is a businessman. And his biggest venture yet is his attempt to re-brand the United States of America. The purpose of this exercise remains unclear to the rest of the world—particularly those who loved the original brand, such as myself.
In America 2.0, immigrants are no longer the lifeblood of the nation. They are “bad hombres” who are here to steal American jobs, commit crimes, and wage war on Christmas. “The lamp beside the golden door” now shines in one’s face on entry. “Peace, commerce, and honest friendship with all nations” are out. “War in the South China Sea” is in. Nor does Trump’s version of the US position itself as a beacon to the rest of mankind. American infrastructure is in decay. Crime is rampant. The middle class is destroyed. Taxes are the highest in the world. Government is corrupt. The press is lying about everything.
There’s no doubt that the US has serious problems, ranging from the widening inequality gap to labor displacement caused by globalization and technological advancement. But Donald Trump’s attempt to rebrand the US is based on a false premise. Can he pull it off anyway?
First, consider the facts. The US is a prosperous country; its GDP per capita, $56,084, remains one of the highest in the world. The US is also the world’s biggest consumer spender and its job market is healthy; February of 2017 was the 77th straight month of job growth. The quality of US infrastructure dipped during the recession that began in 2007-2008, but it is still comparatively high—11th highest in the world, according to the World Economic Forum. Food safety is good. Water and air quality have been steadily improving. The US crime rate remains at a 20-year low.
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https://qz.com/938108/you-can-fight-trump-by-noticing-the-ways-his-dark-vision-of-america-doesnt-match-reality/
Trump: Trying to make Myth a Reality....
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