It's not the media. It's experience that tells me have weakened morally. First though, let me say that there are some improvements. I think we have improved morally when it comes to race relations and some other smaller-scale issues, such as whether we allow date-rape, bullying in schools, open tolerance and celebration of drunkenness, and some other issues.
In terms though of basic morality, I think we have slipped. I think we are far more likely to use the law to attack and sue one another, and do so in a dishonest manner, lying in deposition, etc,...if that advances our cause. I think, in general, we lie a lot more as a soceity. I think sexual abuse and abduction of children, substance abuse, probably infedility, and other things probably as well have increased.
In general, I think we are much more amoral, especially the GenX generation and younger Baby Boomers, and that a sense and perhaps even ability to assess basic moral fairness has at times been corrupted. I think a lack of moral fiber and toughness, and an increase in selfishness probably lies at the root of the high divorce rate.
The values of America are probably best expressed as personal comfort and self-fulfillment.
This message has been edited by randman, 01-29-2006 07:12 PM