One of the most influential and inspirational teachers I’ve ever known is the cultural historian, Morris Berman, who taught at the University of Victoria back in the 1980’s.
Morris’s view of the world is not for the faint of heart – it’s uncompromising and pessimistic. Nevertheless, he defends his thesis of America’s “negative identity” with eloquence, vigour and thoughtfulness.
The following presentation is from Morris’s recent speaking engagement in Seattle; he is promoting his new book, Why America Failed: The Roots of Imperial Decline. [The question and answer period at the end is perhaps the most illuminating part of the session.]
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