A Promised Land explores the enduring grind of U.S. politics, fresh takes on policy debates and the long-term promise of viewing America as a developing country. Geared toward American and foreign audiences alike, its perspective partly flows from my international development work. Namely:
- Many problems plaguing U.S. democracy resemble those of poorer countries, including those engulfed by rising tides of authoritarianism.
- After decades of America teaching, preaching and promoting democracy abroad, we should learn some lessons from other nations in return.
- Once we cast aside false distinctions between richer and poorer societies, it’s clear that all are developing – though not always in positive ways.
- A developmental perspective is ultimately optimistic, holding that progress is possible.
Which brings us back to the blog’s title. These difficult days in America and abroad can spur despair. This site chronicles some such situations and sentiments. But it also aims to illuminate better days that may lie ahead and possible ways of getting there.
Or, as one popular pundit puts it, I believe in a promised land.