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The Unfinished Business Of Independence

The article titled "The Unfinished Business of Independence" by Michael Posner, published on Forbes on July 3, 2025, delves into the ongoing challenges and aspirations of achieving true independence in various aspects of American life. The piece reflects on the historical context of the United States' independence and juxtaposes it with contemporary issues that suggest the journey towards complete independence is far from over.

Posner begins by commemorating the 249th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, a document that not only declared the colonies' separation from British rule but also set forth ideals of liberty, equality, and justice. He argues that while the United States has made significant strides in realizing these ideals, there remains much "unfinished business" that continues to challenge the nation's commitment to these founding principles.

One of the primary areas of unfinished business discussed is economic independence. Posner highlights the persistent issue of income inequality, noting that despite the nation's wealth, a significant portion of the population struggles to achieve financial security. He points to the widening gap between the rich and the poor, exacerbated by factors such as automation, globalization, and policy decisions that favor the wealthy. The article suggests that true economic independence requires a more equitable distribution of resources and opportunities, advocating for policies that support education, healthcare, and a living wage.

Another critical aspect of unfinished business is racial and social justice. Posner reflects on the historical injustices faced by African Americans, Native Americans, and other marginalized groups, emphasizing that the legacy of these injustices continues to impact society today. He discusses recent movements such as Black Lives Matter and the ongoing efforts to address systemic racism in areas like policing, education, and housing. The article argues that achieving true independence means confronting and rectifying these historical wrongs, ensuring that all citizens have equal rights and opportunities.

The article also touches on the topic of political independence, examining the current state of American democracy. Posner critiques the influence of money in politics, suggesting that it undermines the democratic process and the ability of citizens to have a meaningful voice in governance. He calls for reforms such as campaign finance reform and measures to increase voter participation, arguing that a healthy democracy is essential for true independence.

Environmental independence is another area of focus in the article. Posner discusses the urgent need to address climate change and environmental degradation, noting that the United States' reliance on fossil fuels and unsustainable practices threatens not only the nation's future but the planet's. He advocates for a transition to renewable energy and sustainable practices, arguing that true independence requires a commitment to preserving the environment for future generations.

The article also explores the concept of technological independence, particularly in the context of data privacy and cybersecurity. Posner highlights the growing concerns over the control and misuse of personal data by tech companies and foreign entities. He argues that achieving technological independence means protecting citizens' privacy and ensuring that technology serves the public interest rather than corporate or foreign agendas.

In addition to these broader themes, Posner touches on the importance of cultural and intellectual independence. He discusses the role of education in fostering critical thinking and creativity, essential for a society to thrive independently. The article critiques efforts to censor or control educational content, arguing that a free and open exchange of ideas is crucial for true independence.

The article concludes by emphasizing the interconnectedness of these various aspects of independence. Posner argues that achieving true independence requires a holistic approach that addresses economic, racial, political, environmental, technological, and cultural dimensions. He calls for a renewed commitment to the ideals of the Declaration of Independence, urging Americans to work together to complete the unfinished business of independence.

Overall, "The Unfinished Business of Independence" by Michael Posner is a comprehensive examination of the ongoing challenges facing the United States in its pursuit of true independence. The article serves as a call to action, encouraging readers to reflect on the nation's progress and to engage in the work necessary to realize the full promise of independence. By addressing issues such as income inequality, racial justice, political reform, environmental sustainability, technological privacy, and educational freedom, Posner paints a detailed picture of the multifaceted nature of independence and the collective effort required to achieve it.

Read the Full Forbes Article at:
[ https://www.forbes.com/sites/michaelposner/2025/07/03/the-unfinished-business-of-independence/ ]