This article examines the condition of the U.S. in terms of human progress, as measured by social health standards, as of December 2000. Economic development does not necessarily equate with human progress. Human progress, as opposed to economic progress alone, encompasses a broad appraisal of a nation's social health. Observable indicators of social health include the well-being of children and youth, accessibility of health care, quality of education, adequacy of housing, security and satisfaction in work or labor, and the sense of community, citizenship, and diversity experienced in everyday life. The underlying thread connecting these indicators is a concern for the health and security of vulnerable groups in a nation's population. Although the U.S. is a developed nation, the low birth weight rate of African American babies in the U.S. is comparable to those in poor developing countries. This situation exposes a logical fallacy. Advanced science, technology, and economic growth should be expected to produce higher-quality health care delivery and stronger health outcomes for all groups in the population. Unfortunately, racial discrepancies in maternal and child health indicators in the U.S. demonstrate otherwise.