Reply #2: America continues its intellectual and economic decline

[Newsjock]

Practically every other malady afflicting our nation is a symptom of these two problems. This isn't about "having a college degree" or "being rich"; it's about having the basic educational foundation to function effectively and critically in 21st-century society, regardless of one's choice of work or lifestyle. And we are failing miserably.

And I find that, as this decline continues, the random interactions of everyday life are becoming much more frustrating, as we deal with increasing numbers of people who -- out of futility, desperation, anger, and/or hopelessness -- have simply checked out of having any meaningful role in this nation.