As we approach Thanksgiving, the article raises a critical question: Does America need to focus more on the civic virtue of gratitude? This question is particularly relevant in a period marked by political polarization and cultural shifts. The authors argue that while personal gratitude is widespread, the collective acknowledgment of the nation’s blessings is waning. They suggest that the educational system, once a key player in fostering this sentiment, is now failing to instill a sense of national pride and gratitude in young people.
The piece points to a recent Axios–Generation Lab poll indicating a growing trend among college students with a positive view of socialism over capitalism, raising concerns about the erosion of appreciation for the American free enterprise system. While capitalism is acknowledged to have its flaws, the article underscores the significant role the American economy has played in lifting millions out of poverty and providing opportunities for success. The narrative encourages a reevaluation of how educational curricula reflect these successes and instill a sense of gratitude in students.
Incorporating historical contexts, the article references the first Thanksgiving and the stories of the Pilgrims and American Indians, which were once key elements of the educational curriculum. The shift in teaching practices, however, has led to a neglect of these narratives, with schools increasingly focusing on themes of exploitation and oppression rather than the achievements of the American spirit. The authors argue that this shift could have profound implications for the cultural fabric of the nation, advocating for a return to a narrative that celebrates the country’s past and its potential for the future.
Moreover, the article draws parallels between the current educational trends and the historical practices of our nation’s leaders, such as George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, who emphasized gratitude in their Thanksgiving proclamations. These leaders reminded Americans to recognize and appreciate the blessings of their nation, a sentiment that the article suggests is crucial for fostering unity in times of division. The piece concludes with a call to action for educators, policymakers, and citizens to embrace the value of gratitude as a means to bridge divides and promote a sense of shared purpose.