Book Review: ‘Nation of Victims: Identity Politics, the Death of Merit, and the Path Back to Excellence’

In his book, “Nation of Victims: Identity Politics, the Death of Merit, and the Path Back to Excellence,” Vivek Ramaswarmy sees the country being destroyed by victimhood.

Underdogs in any situation feel they can affect their own destiny. They actively take responsibility for their actions and believe they have the power to change their tomorrows. Victims, on the other hand, see themselves as having no control; they are at the mercy of others.  They look outside of themselves for help.

In his book “Nation of Victims: Identity Politics, the Death of Merit, and the Path Back to Excellence,” Vivek  Ramaswamy sees the country being destroyed by victimhood, as both progressives and conservatives have largely adopted a victim mentality. Ramaswamy calls for the return of America the Underdog, which once prided itself on beating the odds and obtaining excellence.

Underdog Solutions, or Not

The author explains that the conflict between Carthage and Rome tells us that wars are not necessarily won or lost with great generals or decisive battles. Carthage’s losses in the First Punic War were the result of being out-built by Rome. China has already out-built the United States. The United States, rather than being a victim, should take a page from Rome’s playbook when it faced Carthage as a seemingly unbeatable military power. The United States should avoid open conflict and wait out its opponent, all the while rebuilding its diminished industrial capabilities.