From NASA to Nihilism: What Happened to American Pride?

There was a time when Americans took immense pride in their institutions. We cheered as astronauts walked on the moon, celebrating scientific achievement and the triumph of a nation that believed in progress. Federal agencies like NASA were symbols of excellence, curiosity, and unity.

Fast forward to today, and the picture looks starkly different. The modern political landscape is riddled with distrust, division, and hostility—not just toward individuals but toward the very institutions that once defined American greatness. The image above juxtaposes these two eras: the left side captures a moment of unparalleled American achievement, while the right side reflects an era of anger, resentment, and distrust.

What changed?

The Rise of Distrust and Division

In the 1970s, despite political challenges, there was still a broad respect for government institutions. People may have disagreed with policies, but they generally believed in the integrity of American democracy. Today, figures like Donald Trump and Steve Bannon thrive on cultivating hatred toward the government itself. Many Americans have come to see federal agencies as enemies rather than allies.

Social media, political propaganda, and relentless attacks on the press have deepened these divisions. While past generations united to conquer the impossible—like landing on the moon—today’s discourse seems to be about tearing down rather than building up.

Can We Find Our Way Back?

The question we must ask ourselves is this: Can America reclaim the sense of pride and unity it once had? Can we once again rally around progress, science, and achievement, rather than anger and distrust?

Respect for institutions doesn’t mean blind obedience, but it does mean valuing what they represent—an effort to improve society, to protect democracy, and to advance human knowledge. If we continue down a path of cynicism and division, we risk losing the very fabric that made the country great in the first place.

It wasn’t always this way. And it doesn’t have to stay this way.

What do you think? Can America rebuild its trust in its institutions, or is that era gone forever? Let’s discuss.