Who Are We—Challenges Facing American National Character

Author: (American) Huntington / Cheng Kexiong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-03-01
Features: This book is the newest and most important work by Samuel Huntington, a renowned international issues scholar and Harvard professor, following his The Clash of Civilizations and the Remaking of World Order. The book shifts the perspective of "the clash of civilizations" from the international level to the domestic sphere of the United States, discussing the various challenges faced by American national identity. It argues that the United States is at a critical juncture, and if it does not vigorously defend and promote the core characteristics of Anglo-Protestant culture, the nation risks fragmentation and decline. From the perspective of American national interests, the author elaborates on the international situation the U.S. faces in the early 21st century and the role it should play in the world. He identifies "Islamic militants" as the United States' current adversaries and acknowledges "China" as a potential future enemy. Upon its release, the book sparked widespread controversy and criticism both domestically in the U.S. and internationally.