-"Hank shares my philosophy that the economy prospers when we trust the American people..."
XXXX- G.W.B.
"The whole world is dependent upon the U.S. economy as a major engine of its growth. And our economy's strength is rooted in the entrepreneurial spirit and the competitive zeal of the American people, and in our free and open market. It is truly a marvel, but we cannot take it for granted.
We must take steps to maintain our competitive edge in the world."
- Paulson, speaking at nomination ceremony
An edge in competition gets held against the other competitiors. This is the nature of competition. It's kind of a winner/loser thing.
The world depends on us "maintaining our competitive edge" against - the world.
