"Even if they've done this well it seems risky to start trying to learn from the "successful" programs of poor states on the theory that maybe the things they a

"Even if they've done this well it seems risky to start trying to learn from the "successful" programs of poor states on the theory that maybe the things they are successful at are holding them back." You should always looking at what others are doing and draw your own conclusions. I think one thing that may cause or is already causing problems for the US is the refusal to look at what other countries are doing, for example in health care, social programs or drug policy. You don't have to copy what others are doing but having a good understanding is very helpful.