But now, we are becoming suspicious of the very things we have long celebrated - free markets, trade, immigration, and technological change. And all this is happening when the tide is going our way. Just as the world is opening up, America is closing down.
Interpretation
The quote expresses concern about America's increasing skepticism towards globalization and technological advancements at a time when opportunities are expanding.
Fareed Zakaria highlights a paradox in contemporary American society, where long-standing values such as free markets and immigration, which have traditionally been celebrated, are now met with suspicion. This trend of closing off is unsettling as it occurs during a period of great potential and openness in the world, suggesting that America may be missing out on opportunities for growth and innovation.
In practice
In a discussion about the future of trade policies during a conference.
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