Americas problem is how to free itself from the grip of its exhausted — William Pfaff

"The achievement of nationhood is a product not only of time and circumstance but usually of war and suffering as well."

"The problems of elites is an old one for which Americans have found no solid answer."

"The center holds; passion falls away. That is what happened ideologically in Western Europe over recent years."

"These choices by small countries are vital for them, but may be more momentous than commonly understood for others as well, including the major powers, who presumptuously believe they are in control of events."

"For four hundred years European civilization has dominated the world - for better or for worse. It is convenient, and flattering, for Americans to assume that this is all over; but it very rash to do so."

"We Americans really seem to be the only truly non-socialist economy on earth."