The Continuous Decline of Morality in the USA

 In a recent discussion on the moral decline in the United States, Michael Bresciani highlighted findings from a Gallup survey that indicated respondents prioritized issues like poor leadership, inflation, and immigration. Ethics, morality, and family issues ranked low, suggesting Americans might have their priorities wrong, according to Bresciani. This echoes thoughts from historical figures like John Owen, who emphasized the dangers of moral insensitivity.

1. Survey Findings: The Gallup survey ranked ethics and morality as the least pressing issues, revealing a disconnect with the moral foundations that once guided American society.

2. Historical Context: Bresciani refers to the Puritans who established communities based on biblical principles in New England and highlights the shift away from these values throughout American history.

3. Influence of Enlightenment Ideas: Philosophers like John Locke questioned the Puritan ethos by advocating for individual freedom over communal moral commitments. This contributed to a dilution of Christian values in the early governance and societal structure.

4. Impact of Education and Culture: Higher education institutions that were once grounded in Christian values, such as Harvard and Yale, have seen a decline in theological emphasis, transitioning towards secular philosophies, illustrated by figures like Ralph Waldo Emerson.

5. Rise of New Ideologies: Movements that promote alternative lifestyles, such as commune living and the ideas of Karl Marx, contributed to a shift away from traditional family structures and values.

6. Individual Morality vs. Societal Goals: The article underscores the belief that individuals, rooted in biblical values, form families, which in turn create communities. This model contrasts with global or collective ideologies that prioritize the community over family.

7. Acceleration of Decline: The decline in moral values has intensified since the 1990s, with cultural events further tarnishing the image of moral leadership and integrity in the U. S.

The text argues that America is far from its foundational ideals concerning individual morality and family values. This change has developed gradually over centuries, particularly accelerating in recent decades, leading to a society that no longer prioritizes the moral teachings that once shaped its culture.

https://www.americanthinker.com/articles/2026/03/the_continuous_decline_of_morality_in_the_usa.html