Are We There Yet?

by Morris Berman

Are We There Yet? is a collection of essays grouped around three major the collapse of the American empire; the question of individual identity; and some thoughts regarding the nature of a post-collapse world. The book analyzes what has gone wrong with the United States since its inception, and the problems we now face as a result. It discuss the elements of a healthy human identity—elements that are largely absent from the American scene. And it poses alternatives to all of this, models already present in the consciousness of a few, and which, post-collapse, may possibly be realized several decades down the line. In the course of this discussion, the author reviews the pathology of smart phones and related electronic gadgets; the phenomenon of Hillary Clinton as an archetypal American disaster, and of Joe Bageant as an unsung hero; and the visionary work of scholars such as Pitirim Sorokin and Lewis Mumford. All in all, Are We There Yet? will have you thinking about what the possibilities are for achieving some semblance of sanity in a world completely out of kilter. Readers interested in related titles from Morris Berman will also want to Coming to Our Senses ( 1626542910), Spinning Straw Into Gold ( 1635610532).

234 pages, Paperback

Published October 27, 2017

About the author

Distinguished cultural historian and social critic Morris Berman has spent many years exploring the corrosion of American society and the decline of the American empire. He is the author of the critically acclaimed works The Twilight of American Culture, a New York Times Book Review "Notable Book," and Dark Ages America."

Reviews

[noblethumos]

Morris Berman’s Are We There Yet? (2017) presents a compelling collection of essays that delve into the multifaceted decline of the American empire, the crisis of individual identity, and contemplations on a post-collapse society. Building upon his previous critiques of American culture, Berman offers a nuanced analysis of the systemic issues that have plagued the United States since its inception, leading to contemporary societal malaise.


Berman examines the historical and cultural trajectories that have precipitated the nation’s decline. He critiques the pervasive materialism, technological obsession, and the erosion of communal values, suggesting that these factors have collectively undermined the nation’s foundational integrity.


Berman explores the fragmentation of personal identity in the context of a hyper-consumerist society. He discusses the psychological impact of digital technologies, particularly smartphones, on human relationships and self-perception, positing that these devices contribute to a superficial sense of connection while exacerbating feelings of isolation.


Berman offers speculative insights into potential societal configurations following the disintegration of current structures. Drawing inspiration from thinkers like Pitirim Sorokin and Lewis Mumford, he envisions models that prioritize humanistic values, ecological sustainability, and localized communities as antidotes to the prevailing cultural decay.


Berman’s critique extends to contemporary political figures, notably Hillary Clinton, whom he portrays as emblematic of systemic issues within the American political landscape. Conversely, he elevates figures like Joe Bageant, recognizing their contributions to articulating the struggles of the disenfranchised and advocating for a return to authentic communal engagement.


A significant portion of the essays addresses the “pathology of smartphones and related electronic gadgets,” where Berman argues that the omnipresence of technology fosters a disconnection from reality and hampers the development of meaningful interpersonal relationships. This critique aligns with broader concerns about the psychological and societal implications of digital immersion.


Are We There Yet? serves as a poignant continuation of Berman’s exploration into the decline of Western civilization, offering a synthesis of historical analysis, cultural critique, and speculative foresight. His interdisciplinary approach provides a comprehensive understanding of the complexities underlying America’s trajectory, making the work a valuable resource for scholars in cultural studies, sociology, and American history.


While Berman’s perspective is decidedly critical, it is rooted in a profound concern for the potential avenues through which society might navigate the challenges of a post-collapse reality. His invocation of alternative models emphasizes the possibility of reconstructing societal frameworks that are more attuned to human needs and ecological realities.


In Are We There Yet?, Morris Berman delivers a thought-provoking and incisive examination of America’s cultural and existential predicaments. His essays challenge readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the nation’s past and present, while also contemplating viable pathways toward a more sustainable and fulfilling future. This collection stands as a significant contribution to contemporary cultural criticism, inviting reflection and discourse on the pressing issues of our time.

GPT

[Paul]

Berman is a historian, and throws a fair amount of psychology into his explanations. His overall conclusion is that our civilization is on a downward path, particularly obvious in the US. I like the way he looks at the big picture, but pulls in lots of examples from history, literature, movies, personal experience, and a wide range of nonfiction books. Unfortunately, since his positive expressions are outnumbered by his warnings, reading the book certainly could spark depression. That’s a risk we take when we explore our society, eh?

The publisher description is useful too: http://www.echopointbooks.com/philoso...

[César T]

Conjunto de ensayos y otros tipos de textos que nos permiten conocer la perspectiva del autor sobre lo que él considera la decadencia de Estados Unidos, así como otras inquietudes intelectuales que tiene. Aunque su lectura de la situación de su país de origen puede resultar pesimista, creo que es importante tener voces críticas que nos permitan ver diferentes perspectivas.

[Dave Clark]

Probably mostly interesting to people who've already read his other books. Some of the themes in this book make a lot more sense when read within their original context, like the sections lifted from the "Why America Failed" trilogy.

[Jano Garcí]

This old man and I share similar experiences and breakthroughs on different countries.