It can be said, but cannot be denied, that the United States of America is today one of the most powerful countries in the world world, and were undoubtedly the last. hundred years. With its political programs and its military force, it shapes governments; with its social trends and values, it shapes cultures. But what exactly shaped the United States? The different worldviews derived from Western philosophy are the most obvious answer, but, to be more precise, it is the way in which these worldviews were adopted that is of most importance. Whether it is the strict nature of the Puritans, who can be held responsible for the widespread fear of sexuality, drug use, and various other topics in America; or the revolutionary ideas of the modernists, who were responsible for recognizing the new complexity of the world, each played a key role in the formation of modern America, due to their own unique characteristics and perspectives . One particular worldview – the Age of Reason – and its many key concepts and characteristics – most importantly their independence, autonomy, and belief in rationalism – have had a significant and lasting impact on modern America . the colonists greatly valued their independence and it was a key factor in all their decisions. An example of this is the Declaration of Independence, in which Thomas Jefferson states in his final paragraph: "We, therefore, the representatives of the United States of America, assembled in General Congress, appeal to the supreme judge of the world for righteousness of our intentions, made, in the name and by authority of the good people of these colonies, publish and solemnly declare that these united colonies are, and of right or...... middle of paper.... ...clearly visible in the three monumental writings discussed in this essay, yet they are only a small glimpse of how it affected both America and the world. This age brought about arguably the most important revolution in modern history, as well as a curiosity and capacity for critical thinking that was almost wiped out by the strict nature of the Puritans. Without this age – although it certainly had its flaws – the world would be a radically different place. Work cited Henry, Patrick. “Speech at the Virginia Convention.” » Elements of literature. Austin: Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 2002. 102-104. Print.Jefferson, Thomas. “The Declaration of Independence.”Elements of literature. Austin: Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 2002. 117-123. Print. Paine, Thomas. “The crisis”. Elements of literature. Austin: Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 2002. 108-111. Print..