Moral exceptionalism is the belief that certain individuals or groups are exempt from the normal moral standards that apply to others, often because of their perceived importance, power, or status. This can lead to a sense of entitlement or justification for harmful actions.
An example of American Exceptionalism is FREEDOM.
Yes President Obama and President Putin both agree in Russian exceptionalism. Neither however believe in American exceptionalism.
Yes, American Exceptionalism is what works for us.We're the first working democracy, and at the moment, we're the best. =)
People used exceptionalism to justify expansion by promoting the idea that their nation or culture was inherently superior and had a divine right to spread its values and systems. This belief often manifested in the notion of Manifest Destiny in the United States, where expansion was seen as a moral obligation to bring civilization and progress to perceived "lesser" societies. Such ideologies helped rationalize colonialism and imperialism, framing expansion as a benevolent mission rather than an exercise of power. Ultimately, exceptionalism provided a moral veneer for the exploitation and domination of other peoples and territories.
American exceptionalism is the belief that the United States has a unique mission to spread democracy and freedom, which directly relates to the concept of manifest destiny—the idea that it was the nation's divine right and duty to expand westward across North America. Both concepts reflect a sense of superiority and a moral obligation to extend American values. Manifest destiny justified territorial expansion, while American exceptionalism framed that expansion as part of a broader, noble mission. Together, they shaped the national identity and justified actions taken during the westward expansion.
In his work 'Democracy in America'
The Arbella Sermon, delivered by John Winthrop aboard the Arbella in 1630, is significant as it articulated the vision for the Puritan settlement in America. Winthrop emphasized the idea of creating a "city upon a hill," symbolizing a community that would serve as a moral example to the world. This sermon laid the groundwork for the Puritan ethos, highlighting themes of communal responsibility, moral governance, and the belief in a divinely ordained mission. Its enduring legacy influences American identity and ideals of exceptionalism to this day.
American Exceptionalism, Anglo-Saxon Superiority, Social Darwinism; Not Populism.
Governor John Winthrop referred to Puritan Massachusetts as a "city upon a hill." This phrase encapsulated his vision of the colony as a model of Christian charity and a shining example of moral righteousness for others to follow. He believed that their success would serve as a testament to the Puritan values and the covenant they made with God. The concept has since become a symbol of American exceptionalism.
Carl Sauer is often referred to as the father of geographic exceptionalism. He was a prominent American geographer who emphasized the importance of unique regional characteristics and the impact of human-environment interactions on shaping landscapes. Sauer's work laid the foundation for the study of cultural landscapes and the idea of each region having its own distinct characteristics.
The Puritans believed in creating a model society based on their vision of a pure and religiously devout community, which they described as a "city upon a hill" in reference to a passage in the Bible. They wanted to serve as an example to others and inspire them to follow their moral and religious ideals. This concept laid the foundation for the idea of American exceptionalism and the aspiration for the United States to be a shining beacon of democracy and virtue.
Josiah Strong's argument centered on the idea of American exceptionalism and the moral obligation to spread Protestant Christianity and Western civilization, emphasizing a divine mandate to uplift "weaker" nations. In contrast, Albert Beveridge's perspective highlighted the economic and strategic benefits of imperialism, advocating for territorial expansion as a means to secure markets and resources for America. While both supported American expansionism, Strong focused on spiritual and moral reasons, whereas Beveridge emphasized pragmatic and material motivations.