We excel at the things that we consider to be important: money, business, stuff. We are way behind in things we don't consider important: environment, healthcare for the masses, etc. It's a matter of priority. In many ways America does lead, because we have a mercenary mindset. I recently heard someone speaking against the war in Iraq and the reason they mentioned is that it's hard on the middle class -- no mention of morals at all, just finances. That's why we're ahead in money and business.