A great nation yes, but being humble is the better course

We have suddenly been overloaded with a recycled, pre-Civil War idea that will again be used by ambitious politician to enhance their election efforts. "American exceptionalism" is the political coin of the realm as potential candidates for the 2012 presidential election grope for the magic words for success. The user is unapologetically asserting that the United States is superior to other nations and has a unique destiny to fulfill.

By ALLAN POWELL

February 1, 2011