Splitsville USA: A Democratic Argument for Breaking up the United States, by Christopher F. Zurn.

In the article "Splitsville USA: A Democratic Argument for Breaking up the United States" by Christopher F. Zurn, the author argues that the United States should be divided into two or more new nations as a solution to the severe polarization and weakening of political norms in the country. Zurn outlines his diagnosis of America's political problems and presents a case for national divorce, contending that alternative solutions are inadequate. He suggests that a breakup into ideologically homogeneous states would allow Americans to live under governments that align more closely with their preferences and could prevent a deterioration towards authoritarianism. However, the author of the summary disagrees with Zurn's proposal, stating that it overstates the feasibility and effectiveness of the idea and undervalues potential alternatives such as decentralization and limitation of political power. The summary also highlights the potential difficulties and negative consequences of a breakup, including the resistance from dissenting minorities, the impact on international relations, and the increased power of authoritarian states. Overall, the article is seen as a valuable exploration of a radical idea that should be of interest to scholars, but the proposed remedy is considered more dangerous than the current problems and less drastic solutions may be more effective. [Extracted from the article]