The text authors claim that the Soviet launching of the space satellit

The text authors claim that the Soviet launching of the space satellite Sputnik “forced Americans to question themselves and their own values”.

What specific values came under reexamination? What action was taken as a consequence of this reassessment?

ANSWER
Americans reexamined their educational curriculum, their funding and support for technological research, and their commitment to consumerism. This resulted in a new emphasis on science education (National Defense Education Act) and the beginning of the space race.