Addressing Contemporary Needs in the United States

As a citizen of North Carolina, I believe the United States has several urgent needs that require immediate attention and action. This includes reevaluating the country's military and foreign policies, healthcare systems, government structures, educational systems, and more.

1. Renouncing the World Policeman Status

First and foremost, the United States must stop projecting its role as the world's policeman. The justification for U.S. involvement in global conflicts post-World War II often lacks a clear ethical or practical rationale. From the Korean War onward, U.S. military intervention seems to stem from either unnecessary aggression or attempts to repair damages caused by the U.S. itself. The nation needs to prioritize national defense and effectively manage its military budget by reducing overseas engagements. Redirecting parts of the defense budget could lead to significant improvements in domestic issues and global stability.

2. Prioritizing Healthcare as a Public Service

Beyond military matters, the U.S. must recognize healthcare as a fundamental public service rather than a commodity. Unlike the criticism faced by the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK or any other developed country, the experiences of patients abroad overwhelmingly demonstrate that their health systems are superior to America's. This differential indicates a more equitable and effective healthcare delivery system. Additionally, the mental health crisis should be acknowledged with urgent reforms in healthcare policies. Mental health should be treated with the same urgency and respect as physical health, and medical interventions should not be misused as political tools. Standard working hours should be established, and the stigma associated with mental health should be eradicated.

3. Restoring Federal-State Balance

Significant changes are needed to balance the powers between the federal and state governments. The U.S. Constitution was written with a divided governance structure, granting the states responsibility for most legislation while the federal government handled foreign relations and interstate conflicts. However, the erosion of state autonomy has undermined this system. The federal government frequently imposes one-size-fits-all legislation, often exceeding its constitutional authority. It is time to address the issue of peaceful succession, as well as consider the division or merger of states to improve resource management. For instance, California, with its vast population and diverse resources, could benefit from division, while some underutilized mid-western regions could be consolidated.

4. Overhauling the Education System

The U.S. education system is in dire need of reform to adapt to the post-industrial era. School curriculums must evolve to meet the demands of the modern technological landscape. The K-12 system was designed for a time when most people worked in manual labor or lower-level office jobs. However, advancements in technology have diminished the need for these jobs, and a new model of education that focuses on trades and vocational skills is essential. Trade schools and vocational programs should become more prominent, allowing students to pursue practical skills that are no longer obsolete. This shift would not only provide a more equitable education system but also address the issue of high unemployment in these areas by creating a skilled workforce.

5. Addressing Historical Misconceptions and Practicing Inclusivity

The idea of “making America great again” often romanticizes a past era that was far from perfect. The 1950s idealized image of suburban life was merely a fiction that ignored the real struggles of inner cities, rural communities, and marginalized groups. It is essential to recognize and acknowledge the full spectrum of U.S. history to ensure a more progressive and inclusive society. Additionally, promoting bilingualism and multilingualism is crucial in today's globalized world. While the U.S. has a high rate of monolingual English speakers, it would be beneficial to implement comprehensive foreign language instruction in schools to foster cultural understanding and global competence.

6. Reforming the Legal and Prison System

The U.S. legal and prison system needs significant reform to prioritize rehabilitation and victim support over punishment and profit. The current model disproportionately benefits companies with vested interests in overcrowded prisons and maintains a focus on revenge rather than rehabilitation. Drawing inspiration from countries like Norway, where prisons are more akin to modern living spaces and inmates are treated with dignity, could significantly reduce recidivism rates. A new approach that emphasizes human dignity and rehabilitation could create a more humane and efficient legal system.

Conclusion

The United States cannot afford to let its ego cloud its judgment and prevent it from following the lead of world leaders in areas that matter. By addressing these critical issues, the U.S. can build a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous society for all its citizens.