America

The subject of the book, "That Used to Be Us," is the decline of America. It describes what caused America's deterioration and ways in which the country can reclaim its greatness.

China

China is America's chief competitor on the world stage in not only economic and military ways, but not in terms of personal freedom.

Tianjin

Tom Friedman traveled to Tianjin, China, in September 2010 to attend the World Economic Form summer conference. He was shocked at the city's modern railway system that put America's to shame.

Republican Party

The Republican Party is narrowly focused on tax cuts for the wealthy. The Republicans must face the fact that the country will not be able to tax cut itself to recovery.

Democratic Party

The Democratic party is narrowly focused on saving social programs that have grown too costly. They must face the fact that spending has to be reduced...