...eating at the foundations of things we hold dear... (Para. 32)
eat (away) at: to damage or destroy something bit by bit
The river is eating away at the bank. 这条河流正慢慢侵蚀着河堤。
foundation: n. 1. the idea, law, or fact on which something is based
My physics book is called Foundation of Physics; it covers all the basic theories. 我的物理书名为《基础物理》。这本书涵盖了所有的基本理论。
The foundation of that building is weak; it may fall down.这幢建筑物的地基很差，可能会倒塌。
2. an organization established with money so that it may continue into the future
Her university study is paid for by a scholarship from a private foundation. 她的学费是由一家私立基金会的奖学金来支付的。
The research of scientists is often supported by money from foundations. 科学家的科研经费常常得到基金会的支持。
hold dear: to value a great deal; care greatly.
These are the ideas we hold dear. 这些正是我们所珍视的信念。