Today is July 4th, 2023, aka America’s Birthday, so this morning I took a moment to reflect on what makes this place stand out among the rest.
One of the unique things about this country that seems to annoy a lot of people is our love for disagreement. We're passionate about our viewpoints and not shy about expressing them. Americans are known for our debates, our straightforwardness, and our knack for standing firm when our beliefs don't align with others.
You can find that as a downside of our culture. But you know what? That's also something remarkable about us. We're so dedicated to seeking the truth, we're not afraid to challenge even the most widely accepted notions. That willingness to push back, to question, is what moves us forward.
Take the health sector as an example. There was a time when dietary fat was widely demonized. But it took daring, independent thinkers — scientists, dieticians, and ordinary citizens — to challenge that consensus and help us understand that healthy fats are actually essential for our bodies.
In the old days, bloodletting was a common medical practice in America, based on the idea that draining blood could cure diseases. In the mid-20th century, smoking was not only accepted but promoted by some doctors, who claimed it could soothe the throat, aid digestion, and provide other benefits. Each of these misconceptions was eventually challenged by Americans who weren't afraid to say, "that's BS" and express their doubts.
This, to me, is one of the most admirable aspects of America. We're a place where people aren't scared to confront the status quo.
You might think our debates create chaos. And you’re right. But actually, this chaos is good. It shows we're grappling with reality, trying to figure things out, and allowing different people to live their lives and conduct their own experiments in their own ways.
The "American way" embodies freedom to challenge, to question, to experiment. And if things were less chaotic, if we weren't constantly wrestling with the truth, that's when we should start worrying.
The moment when the vast majority of Americans start dismissing those who challenge commonly accepted truths as harmful, that's when we lose our essence.
So, this Independence Day, I am giving thanks for all the contrarian voices in America. I am celebrating our culture of debate and our unyielding pursuit of the truth. Because in all its obstinate glory, that's what makes America, America.