The US as a global adolescent

I find it a useful tool to look at large, complex systems through the lens of much smaller systems. Through this process of "mirroring," we can begin to get a handle on what initially appears impossibly complex. For example, I think a great deal of insight into the behavior of the United States on the world stage can be found by thinking of America as an "adolescent" country.

What does this mean? Well, adolescence is a developmental stage associated with many things, but including:

• Raging hormones and impulsive, reckless actions
• A desire for independence and a rebellion against authority and elders
• A desire to impress other and feel important
• Feelings of infallability and being right
• Often self-destructive and callous behavior

It is my belief that the US currently demonstrates these traits. A review of any newspaper will provide evidence. In addition, considering the age of various countries around the globe, the US falls into the adolescent range: there are many, more acient countries, and a number of newer ones.

Looking at the US through this developmental lens points to important opportunities for us to grow, mature and cultivate our wisdom. It also points to the ways the US will resist interventions by others to force it to change.

But maturation is clearly needed. Using this metaphor gives us a way to conceptualize the needed work and hopefully engage it more successfully.