The European Dream

At one time the American Dream was the ideal and envy of the world.But today, at the dawn of the new Millennium, Europe is pointing anew way to the future. In this major new book, best-selling authorJeremy Rifkin argues that Europe has a vision of its own and isovertaking America as the world?s next superpower. The American Dream was based on economic growth, personalwealth and independence. It was synonymous with love of country andpatriotism, frontier mentality and the unbridled exercise of power.Yet what were once considered prime virtues - cherished andidealised not only in America but throughout the world - areincreasingly seen by many as drawbacks and even impediments. Butwhile the American Dream tires and languishes in the past, a newEuropean Dream is being born. Today we see a new set of valuesemerging which are focused on sustainable development, quality oflife and multilateralism. More cosmopolitan and less concerned withthe brute exercise of power, the European Dream is betterpositioned to accommodate the many forces that are propelling usinto a more interconnected and interdependent world. Where does Britain fit into this story? The British findthemselves betwixt and between a fading American Dream and a newlyemerging European Dream which is gaining the upper hand in ourcontemporary global age. Rifkin argues that Britain is uniquelypositioned to play a bridge role between Europe and America and hasthe potential to help create a synergy between the two superpowersof the 21st century. But in order to exercise any real influence inworld affairs, Britain must choose to be part of a larger politicalentity. In a globally connected world, no people can exist anylonger as an island unto themselves. The only question for Britainis whether it will make its home with America or with Europe.… (more)