Final answer:
Americans hold onto their sense of moral authority even if they do not recognize it outside of themselves, which can lead to intervention in the affairs of other countries and a belief in universal application of American values.
Step-by-step explanation:
Americans hold onto their sense of moral authority even though they may not recognize moral authority outside of themselves. This can be seen in various historical and contemporary contexts. For example, the United States has a history of intervening in the affairs of other countries to protect its own interests, which has sometimes created tensions and resentment. Additionally, some Americans may believe that their values and standards should be applied universally, even when they may not align with the cultural or moral beliefs of other nations.