The USA was the first nation in history founded on an idea rather than an accident of geography or political fortune, and has often been a source of inspiration for the rest of the world. Although racially divided, it remains in principle a ‘creedal’ rather than ethnic nation. Faith in progress, an orientation toward the future, a sense of unlimited possibility, opportunity, equality, and individual freedom have all been central components of the American creed. Indeed, the combination of liberal individualism and democratic egalitarianism can be seen as a peculiarly American achievement – the very basis of American exceptionalism.

But what do these values mean and have they stood the test of time? What happens when freedom comes into conflict with other American ideals such as the family, Christian piety, or patriotism itself? While the USA is often seen as the aggressive force behind capitalist globalisation, many Americans are fearful of the effects global market forces are having on them. America is a ‘nation of immigrants’, but debates rage about the extent and desirability of contemporary immigration.

Some argue that the apparent libertarianism of the constitution was in fact premised on the shared values of the founding fathers. Does the ethnic diversity and cultural pluralism of contemporary America stretch the limits of liberty? Is it possible to be a proud American while rejecting such staples of Americana as church-going, baseball and apple pie? Europeans sometimes disdain the USA as the land of soulless materialism, religious fundamentalism, chronic obesity and high school shootings. But is there still something in the American idea to inspire the rest of the world in the 21st century?