I agree. I remember reading about these grievances in the Declaration of Independence some years ago and thinking the same thing. We've lost the essence of what it means to be free.
....we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.
The culture in those days were admirable. Gentlemen would risk their lives and duel for honor and principles and to settle disputes. There was a 'sacred Honor' in doing the right thing and fighting for truth and justice. Many of the founding fathers did lose their lives and fortunes during the War for Independence, but what was most important to many was the freedom they achieved and the sacred Honor they upheld.
Even Warf the Klingon would agree that the worst thing you could say about someone is
He has no honor!
(http://cdn-static.denofgeek.com/sites/denofgeek/files/1/59//worf_0.jpg)