Final answer:
Evaluating the decline in US farming and manufacturing involves complex economic and social factors, including job markets, technological advancements, and national security concerns. Some view the decline and associated transition towards a service-based economy as a natural evolution, while others see the potential risks to cultural identity, rural communities, and domestic job availability. It is crucial to weigh the gains in efficiency against the social and economic costs.
Step-by-step explanation:
Assessing whether the relative decline in US farming and manufacturing is a good or bad thing involves considering various economic and social dimensions. This complex question has implications for national identity, job markets, global economic positioning, technological advancements, and population movements.
Historically, the United States had a strong agrarian identity, but the agricultural sector has seen a decline due to increased mechanization and technological advancements, leading to a decrease in the number of farmers. Farming jobs, which traditionally required less education, have become less accessible, driving rural to urban migration. While fewer people are now needed in farming due to the efficiencies gained through technology and large-scale farming practices, many rural areas suffer from underfunded education systems and inadequate healthcare, leading to a population loss.
The loss of manufacturing jobs is similarly complex. The United States saw a significant drop in manufacturing jobs, particularly from 2000 to 2010, with many jobs moving to countries with lower labor costs. This has raised concerns not only about job availability but also about America's ability to competently respond to military needs, given our past reliance on domestic manufacturing during times of war. The broader implications on the US economy, with the shift towards a service-oriented economy and higher skilled job market, have been both challenging and beneficial, reflecting a dynamic shift in the country's economic makeup.
Ultimately, the question of whether this decline is beneficial depends on multiple factors including labor markets, national security, and social and cultural values. It's crucial to balance the efficiencies gained through economic transitions against the potential loss of jobs, community structures, and skills that are critical in other respects.