The article examines the declining power of the United States, attributing it to an excessive imperial expansion, loss of restraint, military failures, and a deteriorating global image. These factors contribute to a structural decline that has been long predicted by structural realism theory in international relations. It highlights the broader implications of this decline for Western civilization and its global dominance, addressing philosophical and political considerations that have emerged over the past century.

The discussion traces the intellectual legacy of thinkers and philosophers, notably referencing Oswald Spengler's 'The Decline of the West,' published in 1918. This book explored the West's existential crisis against the backdrop of World War I and its aftermath. The present analysis delves into the future of American power, which is currently viewed as the cornerstone of Western strength, weighing the prospects of its decline versus its persistence based on critical analyses of power dynamics.

Furthermore, the article emphasizes the role of structural realism, a significant theory in international relations, positing that the chaotic structure of the global system, rather than human nature or ideology, drives state behavior. This leads to competition and security struggles, underscoring the complex interplay of factors influencing the future trajectory of U.S. power and its implications for global order.