The economy is recovering, yet American confidence remains mired at levels more commonly seen in recessions. For that blame unemployment, petrol prices and a deeper, nagging feeling that America is in decline. A Gallup poll in February asked Americans to name the world's leading economic power. By a significant margin, they said China. Barack Obama has exploited this anxiety. America, he has said, faces a new "Sputnik moment" and must "compete for the jobs and industries of our time" by spending more on research, education and infrastructure.
展开▼
