They're two separate points. 1. Other countries have more ambition, hustle and grit on a cultural level. 2. Our institutions are decaying. Maybe let's add

They're two separate points. 1. Other countries have more ambition, hustle and grit on a cultural level. 2. Our institutions are decaying. Maybe let's add a few more. 3. Oligarchs run the country. 4. People don't care and will defend our mediocrity. Separate points. But all pertinent. Also, in many ways, the attitude from our government does shape cultural attitudes as our federal government is by far the largest employer in the country.