Often misread as an expression of national arrogance, “American exceptionalism” denotes a sociological fact. The US differs from other advanced democracies in two respects above all – religiosity and suspicion of state power. The former moved to the centre of American politics in the decade just ended; the latter may well dominate the decade just begun. The lack of trust in government has framed, and weakened, the Obama presidency thus far. And rebuilding trust may well be the administration's most important political task.

Consider the most recent survey conducted by CBS News and The New York Times. Only 19 per cent of respondents – near the record low – said they trusted the government to do what is right all or most of the time. Only 29 per cent thought they had much influence on what the government does, while 78 per cent believed the government to be run by a few big interests, not for the benefit of the people.

Not surprisingly, these sentiments helped shape attitudes about the exercise of public power. Only 35 per cent thought that government should do more to solve national problems, versus 59 per cent who believed it already did too many things better left to individuals and the private sector. Some 56 per cent would prefer a smaller government offering fewer services; only 34 per cent favoured a larger and more active government.