I understand that on geologic or stellar time, none of it matters. I also understand that China and India are screwing their environment worse than we are, but I just get this feeling that because we have so much more, because there are so many of us that are directly aware of it, because we have the capability to be better than millions of gallons of oil in one of the most important bodies of fresh water, we should BE better. If people want to believe in American Exceptionalism, hold Americans, specifically American corporations to higher standards.
It's a slow process, but it happens. However, I would argue that the most stable advancements are those that are technologically enabled, not politically. If the efficiency of solar panels far outstrips natural gas, it's tough to find investment for fracking. Political change is often an adjustment made to keep up with reality. IMO much of our exceptionalism stems from material, not moral, advantage.If people want to believe in American Exceptionalism, hold Americans, specifically American corporations to higher standards.
Don't underestimate the capacity of people to be complete dopes, especially in large groups. I suggest reading some social and I/O psychology.