Charles Kenny on "The Upside of Down"

America is in decline, and the rise of the East suggests a bleak future for the world's only superpower - so goes the conventional wisdom. In his new book, The Upside of Down, Charles Kenny argues that America's so-called decline is only relative to the newfound success of other countries. And there is tremendous upside to life in a wealthier world: Americans can benefit from better choices and cheaper prices offered by schools and hospitals in rising countries, and, without leaving home, avail themselves of the new inventions and products those countries will produce.

 

The key to thriving in this world is to move past the jeremiads about America's deteriorating status and figure out how best to take advantage of its new role in a multipolar world. Not least that involves re-engaging with multilateral institutions from the UN to the World Trade Organization, opening our borders to new talent, and recognizing our (still) vital leadership role in promoting sustainable planetary development. At this CGD launch, Kenny will offer an optimistic look at America's future in a wealthier world.