The decline in moral standards—which has long concerned social analysts—has at last captured the attention of average Americans. And Jean Bethke Elshtain, for one, is glad.
The fact that ordinary citizens are now starting to think seriously about the nation’s moral climate, says this ethics (伦理学) professor at the University of Chicago, is reason to hope that new ideas will come forward to improve it.
I But the challenge is not to be underestimated. Materialism and individualism in American society are the biggest obstacles. "The thought that I’m in it for me has become deeply rooted in the national consciousness," Ms. Elshtain says.
Some of this can be attributed to the disintegration of traditional communities, in which neighbors looked out for one another, she says. With today’s greater mobility and with so many couples working, those bonds have been weakened, replaced by a greater emphasis on self.
In a 19
A. its growing wealth
B. the self-centeredness of individuals
C. underestimating the impact of social changes
D. the prejudice against women and minorities
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