The issue with these "economic decline" stories and speculations is that "decline" is never defined in any kind of useful way. So, arguments tend to rise with p

The issue with these "economic decline" stories and speculations is that "decline" is never defined in any kind of useful way. So, arguments tend to rise with people talking past each other because they are using a different idea of what axis the decline is moving along. Are we talking about the power to dictate trade terms or monopolize trade routes? This is a lot less important than in the 17th century. Do they mean cultural influence? I can report as a European that I understand US politics better than my own country's. I watch more US movies than al else combined. Do they mean "highest GDP?" Military power? the ability to be the "world Policeman?"