•  Late 1970s and Early 1980s: The phrase, Me Generation, comes to represent this period, an age when self-interests are encouraged above all else.

•  Today: The phrase, family values, has become the popular buzzword in an age when many Americans try to promote traditional social mores.

•  Late 1970s and Early 1980s: The dominant economic philosophy proposes that tax breaks for the wealthy eventually strengthen the economy.

•  Today: President Bush provides tax breaks and cuts for the wealthiest in the United States. While the stock market hits record highs in 2006, middle-class Americans do not see significant increases in their wages.

•  Late 1970s and Early 1980s: Political analysts conclude that democrat Jimmy Carter is elected president in 1977 because of a backlash against Republicans after the Watergate fiasco.

•  Today: Democrats...