America, what a great country!

Submitted by JW (Germany), Jul 24, 2006 at 08:48

Dear McCutcheon,

Many things can be said about the US, but it indeed has over the decades managed to develop into a strong, leading economy in the world and potentially gives economic chances to every individual living in its country. Admirable and upheld by the shallow American dream.

Due to the country's economic success, you can say that some people, that somewhat share the same values, do look enviously upon America. At least from the image it gives of it's economy, "freedoms" and maybe even military. On the other side there are those that believe America became decadent, selfcentred and abusing its power due to these values. I suppose some might say they hate America for it.

You said America is the greatest country in the entire world and that's why everybody hates us. That is your opinion as an American, but I think it is rather shortsighted. Being the greatest is already such a relative term. What defines greatness? Who are we to say that a bushman in the desert is not having a greater live as we speak? Although he doesn't have any money and is starving half of the time, he has little worries and might experience "greatness" when he finally finds that delicious cockroach. This theory can be applied on every individual in the entire world. It's all relative, so that's where your claim is already going wrong.

Going back to our world, I believe the truth it is not so much the country itself, but mostly the current US government the non-Americans are critising. More than before the government is only focused on fulfilling its own interests. Or actually their rich elite's interests? The trick seems to be going to war, making areas more unstable and gain more control. At home they call this "freedom", whilst these countries now lay in ruins and are more devided than ever. At least they gained control of the oilresources, doesn't matter how many have to die for this or are still dying. With this attitute they managed to polarise the area (and the world) and so helping organisations as Al-Qaida to gather more supporters amongst the everyday people. Back home, the government is using the increasing "fear" as an excuse to invest even more money in the army to protect America. Making sure they are ready to start World War III. America, what a great country!

Regards,

JW

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