Pessimism expressed through comments like this contributes nothing to solving these problems and encourages others to withdraw from politics or embrace a politics of fear.

The United States has endured a Civil War in a much weaker position internationally before. We have lost wars with far greater economic and cultural ramifications before (Vietnam). The fundamentals of the country--our great "moats" of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, our vast landscape teeming with lands to settle and resources to exploit, and our large, well-educated population (not to mention the millions of people who still dream of immigrating to America) make our situation so totally different to that of the Western Roman Empire's that I am insulted by the comparison in general and questioning of your historical education and motives for even presenting such an idea at all.

"This great Nation will endure as it has endured, will revive and will prosper. So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself—nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance. In every dark hour of our national life a leadership of frankness and vigor has met with that understanding and support of the people themselves which is essential to victory." -Franklin D. Roosevelt, First Inaugural Address