Exploring the Controversial Idea of a Unique American Mission: Insights from Four Diverse Sources

ASSIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS:

We have reviewed four different sources of information to help us make claims about the question “Should we believe in a “unique” American mission?”
-Jake Sullivan | The Atlantic | Yes, America Can Still Lead the World
-Sohyun An | Multicultural Perspectives | Navigating a Curriculum of American Exceptionalism
-Wilfred McClay | First Things | The Founding of Nations
-Howard Zinn | Boston Review | The Power and the Glory
Use the Comparing Claims and Evidence Tool Actions to compile information from our analyses over the past few weeks. Be sure to complete all the parts including the collaborative argumentation debate introduction and outline.

HOW TO WORK ON THIS ASSIGNMENT (EXAMPLE ESSAY / DRAFT)

Introduction:

For generations, people have argued over the idea of a “unique” American mission. Due to its ideals, history, and political structure, some contend that the United States has a unique place in the world. However, others contend that this claim is erroneous and may result in unfavorable behaviors both internally and abroad. In this essay, we will examine four different sources of data, contrast their arguments, and draw conclusions.

Body:

Jake Sullivan contends that the United States has a special responsibility to advance and defend democracy and human rights around the world in his piece “Yes, America Can Still Lead the World” which was published in The Atlantic. He backs up his assertion with historical examples of American global leadership, like the founding of the United Nations and the victory over fascism in World War II.

On the other side, Sohyun An contends that teaching a “unique” American mission in schools can be problematic in her article “Navigating a Curriculum of American Exceptionalism” which was published in Multicultural Perspectives. She thinks that such lessons can distort history and leave out the experiences of oppressed communities. A contends that teaching American history in a way that is inclusive and varied will help students better comprehend the intricacies and difficulties facing the nation.

Wilfred McClay approaches the topic of a “unique” American mission in a different way in his essay “The Founding of Nations,” which was published in First Things. He contends that the principles and values upon which the United States was established—including individual liberty, democracy, and the pursuit of happiness—are unmatched in human history. However, McClay cautions against the risks of exceptionalism and promotes a modest acceptance of the nation’s shortcomings.

Finally, Howard Zinn disproves the notion of a “unique” American mission in his article “The Power and the Glory” which was published in Boston Review. He contends that such a notion has been employed to defend bad deeds like the colonization of Native American territory and foreign interference. Zinn urges the rejection of any assertions of superiority or uniqueness as well as a critical analysis of American history.

Collaboration in argumentation

It is obvious from analyzing these four sources that different people have varied opinions about what constitutes a “unique” American mission. An and Zinn express reservations about the implications of American exceptionalism, which is defended by Sullivan and McClay.

However, there may be points of agreement between these viewpoints. For instance, all four sources stress the significance of comprehending American history and its influence on the rest of the world. They also acknowledge the great and negative features of the United States and the need for a critical and nuanced approach to its past.

These observations lead us to suggest that the issue of a “unique” American mission requires a balanced response. This strategy ought to recognize the historical accomplishments of the United States while also acknowledging its shortcomings and complexity. It should also be inclusive and varied, considering the experiences and viewpoints of all groups both inside and beyond the nation.

Conclusion:

In summary, the subject of a “unique” American purpose is still debatable and complicated. Four distinct sources were compared, and the results showed various viewpoints and arguments on the subject. A fair and inclusive approach, however, can result in a greater comprehension of American history and its place in the world.

 

 

 

 

ORDER A SIMILAR PAPER NOW