This book explores the meaning and the justification of slogans and principles - virtually mantras - that dominate contemporary America and are believed to offer guidance for the rest of the world. Democracy, market economy, trust in science and religion, looking to the future, proclaim the way to happiness or even salvation. This book submits these notions to a critical examination - neither extolling nor disparaging them, but seeking to establish the exact meaning of each principle and the extent of its validity. The exposition is precise, clear and free of technical language. This book is intended for the reflective reader and the involved citizen. It may be used in colleges and universities in courses in political science, sociology and American studies.