American Exceptionalism.

Differences Between the Left and Conservatives Part II

American Exceptionalism.

For those on the left, American exceptionalism is seen as, at best, boastful and, at worst, toxic. In their view, every proud moment in American history is overshadowed by past sins—no matter how much the nation improves the human condition, its achievements are always eclipsed by old transgressions. On the far left, some even argue that waving the American flag is no different than waving a Nazi banner.

For conservatives, the United States is truly exceptional—a nation that fought a civil war to end slavery, revitalized democracy on the world stage, and saved Europe from both Nazi tyranny and communist expansion. They believe America’s virtues are why people across the globe dream of coming here: to escape oppression, war, or poverty and to claim the rights and opportunities that only America promises. For them, it is the unique system and freedoms found in America that allow individuals to climb the ladder of success in ways that are often impossible elsewhere.

Today, it’s common among younger Americans to express disappointment in their country, sometimes projecting that national critique as a form of self-loathing. During COVID and the BLM protests, some voices even called for the entire system to be dismantled, with groups like Antifa advocating for radical change or outright anarchy.