Forums > Social Discussion > How do you feel about Americans?
Login/Join to ParticipateDiamond In The Rough
459 posts
Location: Richmond, Virginia
459 posts
Location: Richmond, Virginia
Posted:
I'm conducting an informal poll of non-US citizens, concerning how other countries view the United States as a whole.
First some background. I was having a discussion with a friend who seems to think that everyone wants to to either come to the US or make their country just like ours. He thinks America's the best place on the planet and that if other countries don't like us, it's because they're jealous of our standard of living and immense freedoms.
Despite this highly impartial and level-headed viewpoint,
I wanted to get a second opinion.
My question is this: If you dislike America, why? Is it our foreign policy? Our attitude? Envy? Is it stereotypical, or is there a cogent, definable reason?
I'm conducting an informal poll of non-US citizens, concerning how other countries view the United States as a whole.
First some background. I was having a discussion with a friend who seems to think that everyone wants to to either come to the US or make their country just like ours. He thinks America's the best place on the planet and that if other countries don't like us, it's because they're jealous of our standard of living and immense freedoms.
Despite this highly impartial and level-headed viewpoint,
I wanted to get a second opinion.My question is this: If you dislike America, why? Is it our foreign policy? Our attitude? Envy? Is it stereotypical, or is there a cogent, definable reason?
Dance like it hurts; Love like you need money; Work like someone is watching.
Never criticize someone until you've walked a mile in their shoes. That way, when you DO criticize them, you are a mile away, and you have their shoes.
Carpal \'Tunnel
7,193 posts
Location: in the trees
7,193 posts
Location: in the trees
Posted:
this is a touchey subject, a mine field of possible insults
i don't hate ALL americans, just the ones i've encounterd so far
america has some amazing technologys, it is a super state europe can only dream of being, but as a whole it is hell bent on being the biggest, best, richest and most powerfull. generations have been brainwashed over the years so their way of thinking is that they must always be the best, they must alway achieve higher goals whilst degrading the runner up.
i imagine there's some pretty cool americans i would one day like to meet but to say i hate ALL americans, simply because the ones i have met have been twats
it's the same for me and muslims, i don't hate them, i don't even clame to understand me but i have never been offended or attacked by a muslim, even though i do think all these suicide bombers are foolish and misguided
this is a touchey subject, a mine field of possible insults
i don't hate ALL americans, just the ones i've encounterd so far
america has some amazing technologys, it is a super state europe can only dream of being, but as a whole it is hell bent on being the biggest, best, richest and most powerfull. generations have been brainwashed over the years so their way of thinking is that they must always be the best, they must alway achieve higher goals whilst degrading the runner up.
i imagine there's some pretty cool americans i would one day like to meet but to say i hate ALL americans, simply because the ones i have met have been twats
it's the same for me and muslims, i don't hate them, i don't even clame to understand me but i have never been offended or attacked by a muslim, even though i do think all these suicide bombers are foolish and misguided
BRONZE Member
Still wiggling
5,967 posts
Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland (UK)
Still wiggling
5,967 posts
Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland (UK)
Posted:
We're all one... land, social and monetary borders are an invention to make us feel less afraid of the unknown and death.
Ahem, ok that's not much help...
America has produced incredible art and science. It is a diverse and beautiful nation... It has the normal mix of intelligent people.
But for some reason, it elected a moron as it's leader.
The foreign policy leaves a lot to be desired and government policy in general seems to be taken over by paranoia.
Through it's continual invasion of other countries, it seems to have developed the role of world bully, rather than world policeman (which it was hoping for - instead of leaving it to an elected collective).
Some Americans, through their insistance on the greatness of their nation, can appear to others as arrogant...
It is true that many people from around the world looked to America as the 'new world' - a dream for those with ambition and drive. But that was true about 70 years ago, I don't think it's true now.
We're all one... land, social and monetary borders are an invention to make us feel less afraid of the unknown and death.
Ahem, ok that's not much help...
America has produced incredible art and science. It is a diverse and beautiful nation... It has the normal mix of intelligent people.
But for some reason, it elected a moron as it's leader.
The foreign policy leaves a lot to be desired and government policy in general seems to be taken over by paranoia.
Through it's continual invasion of other countries, it seems to have developed the role of world bully, rather than world policeman (which it was hoping for - instead of leaving it to an elected collective).
Some Americans, through their insistance on the greatness of their nation, can appear to others as arrogant...
It is true that many people from around the world looked to America as the 'new world' - a dream for those with ambition and drive. But that was true about 70 years ago, I don't think it's true now.
Getting to the other side 
Pooh-Bah
2,354 posts
Location: Away from home
2,354 posts
Location: Away from home
Posted:
Well, I'm marrying one American and I take the rest as I find them.
I'm moving to America but I don't view it as the best country in the world.
The idea of living in America affording me "immense freedoms" is baffling to me. On the face of it, America seems to be a far more restrictive place than Britain, but maybe that's just because I'm not allowed to spin fire in New York City parks
Well, I'm marrying one American and I take the rest as I find them.
I'm moving to America but I don't view it as the best country in the world.
The idea of living in America affording me "immense freedoms" is baffling to me. On the face of it, America seems to be a far more restrictive place than Britain, but maybe that's just because I'm not allowed to spin fire in New York City parks
NYC
9,232 posts
Location: NYC, NY, USA
9,232 posts
Location: NYC, NY, USA
Posted:
Yeah, that's generally the reaction when I touch down in London yo.
People be all like "Yo HOW can we be more like YOU." And I be like "Chill son, Don't be hatin' just because you live in sum bootlegass suburb of France." They usually step off.
[Deletes post that he's already posted like a billion times.]
I don't think many non-Americans have any idea what's actually going on here. Yet, I'm saddened by how quickly they judge.
I wonder how many people here judge America on things I (or other Americans here) have said.
Written by: Prometheus
everyone wants to to either come to the US or make their country just like ours.
Yeah, that's generally the reaction when I touch down in London yo.
People be all like "Yo HOW can we be more like YOU." And I be like "Chill son, Don't be hatin' just because you live in sum bootlegass suburb of France." They usually step off.
[Deletes post that he's already posted like a billion times.]
I don't think many non-Americans have any idea what's actually going on here. Yet, I'm saddened by how quickly they judge.
I wonder how many people here judge America on things I (or other Americans here) have said.
Well, shall we go?
Yes, let's go.
[They do not move.]
SILVER Member
Liquid Cow
2,629 posts
Location: High Wycombe, England
Liquid Cow
2,629 posts
Location: High Wycombe, England
Posted:
As far as I'm concerned, the US is filled with a random mix of muppets and cool people, pretty much like everywhere else.
I run into too many muppets in this country to think that America has the monopoly on being stupid and/or arrogant.
As far as I'm concerned, the US is filled with a random mix of muppets and cool people, pretty much like everywhere else.
I run into too many muppets in this country to think that America has the monopoly on being stupid and/or arrogant.
But there's no sense crying over every mistake. You just keep on trying till you run out of cake.
BRONZE Member
had her carpal tunnel surgery already thanks v much
4,145 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland (UK)
had her carpal tunnel surgery already thanks v much
4,145 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland (UK)
Posted:
Well, there's this country, that 1 in 5 of its children can't find on a map. One in 10 children were unable to name any of the continents. 86 % failed to find Iraq, the place their country went to war with a few years ago, on a map, too.
And guess what, it's not the US, it's the UK.
https://education.independent.co.uk/news/article1919112.ece
In other words, Bovril's right about the muppets.
Well, there's this country, that 1 in 5 of its children can't find on a map. One in 10 children were unable to name any of the continents. 86 % failed to find Iraq, the place their country went to war with a few years ago, on a map, too.
And guess what, it's not the US, it's the UK.
https://education.independent.co.uk/news/article1919112.ece
In other words, Bovril's right about the muppets.
"vices are like genitals - most are ugly to behold, and yet we find that our own are dear to us."
(G.W. Dahlquist)
Owner of Dragosani's left half
SILVER Member
old hand
768 posts
Location: San Francisco, California, USA
old hand
768 posts
Location: San Francisco, California, USA
Posted:
I think Clare's summation of the United States' approach to the rest of the world is right on.
Speaking as an American who is gay and not white (in other words not a "mainstream" American), I find it funny that when I've been out of the country, or have met people traveling here from other countries, I'm viewed as an American. There's no question to them that I'm an American.
But, to a vast majority of the people who voted for W, the very fact that I'm not white (or black) automatically means I'm not a "real" American -- never mind that I was born here, raised here, can only speak English, and that the Chinese have been in this country for over a century. They seem to forget that white people also came here from somewhere else. And as far as the gay pagan thing goes -- well, you can imagine.
On the other hand, I live in San Francisco, which is practically an alternate universe from the rest of the U.S. I mean, only here would the mayor that legalized gay marriage be considered "too conservative" by the majority of the City's progressive/activist community!
But, despite it all, I consider myself lucky to be an American, though I admit sometimes I wish my parents had gone to a European nation instead. But, 40 years ago when they came here, the U.S. probably was the best choice for them, in terms of opportunity and the promise of freedom.
I think Clare's summation of the United States' approach to the rest of the world is right on.
Speaking as an American who is gay and not white (in other words not a "mainstream" American), I find it funny that when I've been out of the country, or have met people traveling here from other countries, I'm viewed as an American. There's no question to them that I'm an American.
But, to a vast majority of the people who voted for W, the very fact that I'm not white (or black) automatically means I'm not a "real" American -- never mind that I was born here, raised here, can only speak English, and that the Chinese have been in this country for over a century. They seem to forget that white people also came here from somewhere else. And as far as the gay pagan thing goes -- well, you can imagine.
On the other hand, I live in San Francisco, which is practically an alternate universe from the rest of the U.S. I mean, only here would the mayor that legalized gay marriage be considered "too conservative" by the majority of the City's progressive/activist community!
But, despite it all, I consider myself lucky to be an American, though I admit sometimes I wish my parents had gone to a European nation instead. But, 40 years ago when they came here, the U.S. probably was the best choice for them, in terms of opportunity and the promise of freedom.
taken out of context i must seem so strange
~ ani di franco
SILVER Member
Tosser
1,712 posts
Location: Bristol,UK
Tosser
1,712 posts
Location: Bristol,UK
Posted:
Many people have a very skewed view of America and Americans in general.
There are, from what i have experienced, elements that fit the stereotypes, but they are not the be all and end all, and by no means anywhere near a majority. Many of the most intelligent, talented and charming people I have met are Americans.
I am biased though (my girlfriend is from Rhode Island).
Many people have a very skewed view of America and Americans in general.
There are, from what i have experienced, elements that fit the stereotypes, but they are not the be all and end all, and by no means anywhere near a majority. Many of the most intelligent, talented and charming people I have met are Americans.
I am biased though (my girlfriend is from Rhode Island).
SILVER Member
journeyman
54 posts
Location: Bristol, United Kingdom
journeyman
54 posts
Location: Bristol, United Kingdom
Posted:
How can people say they dislike America or Americans? Its a bloomin' great place which is immensely diverse and full of all types of people with different ways of life and different opinions. I've travelled round the US quite a lot and many people I've met have asked me why; stating that they don't like the country and that all Americans are arrogant and annoying. Generally these tend to be narrow minded individuals who have actually seen little outside of their own backyards.
Personally i think America is a beautiful country full of amazing things to see and I have met some of the kindest people I know there. However, I do agree with Clare regarding their bullying tactics. Their leaders have not made the best choices with some terrible consequences but unfortunately the Brits seem to be right behind the current one.
As for best place on the planet - don't think so, America has so many problems I'm not sure why anyone would be jealous!
How can people say they dislike America or Americans? Its a bloomin' great place which is immensely diverse and full of all types of people with different ways of life and different opinions. I've travelled round the US quite a lot and many people I've met have asked me why; stating that they don't like the country and that all Americans are arrogant and annoying. Generally these tend to be narrow minded individuals who have actually seen little outside of their own backyards.
Personally i think America is a beautiful country full of amazing things to see and I have met some of the kindest people I know there. However, I do agree with Clare regarding their bullying tactics. Their leaders have not made the best choices with some terrible consequences but unfortunately the Brits seem to be right behind the current one.
As for best place on the planet - don't think so, America has so many problems I'm not sure why anyone would be jealous!
Life moves pretty fast and if you don't stop and look around once in a while you just might miss it!
SILVER Member
That guy from Reno
556 posts
Location: Reno, Nevada USA
That guy from Reno
556 posts
Location: Reno, Nevada USA
Posted:
You could just about divide America up into pieces similar to the many countries of Euroupe. America is home of Burning man one of the most open minded events on the planet, but it also houses the KKK. SF has a large gay community, Georga may not. The north the south, east coast the west coast, Republicans, Democrats. It's a pretty big place to be generalizing.
So, after demonstarting it's not an easy question to answer do you want to narrow down the question or not? Bust is an american but not all americans are bush.
If we were to flip the question, I would say I have a general positive outlook on most other countries. Their leaders may piss me off, but I wouldn't generalize the people of that country with their leaders.
You could just about divide America up into pieces similar to the many countries of Euroupe. America is home of Burning man one of the most open minded events on the planet, but it also houses the KKK. SF has a large gay community, Georga may not. The north the south, east coast the west coast, Republicans, Democrats. It's a pretty big place to be generalizing.
So, after demonstarting it's not an easy question to answer do you want to narrow down the question or not? Bust is an american but not all americans are bush.
If we were to flip the question, I would say I have a general positive outlook on most other countries. Their leaders may piss me off, but I wouldn't generalize the people of that country with their leaders.
Cody Canon
Controlled Burn, Reno Nevada
BRONZE Member
Still wiggling
5,967 posts
Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland (UK)
Still wiggling
5,967 posts
Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland (UK)
Posted:
No indeed... after all, this is our democratically-elected leader...
Non-Https Image Link
The Reverend Ian Paisley.
Le sigh...
No indeed... after all, this is our democratically-elected leader...
Non-Https Image Link
The Reverend Ian Paisley.
Le sigh...
Getting to the other side
SILVER Member
member
165 posts
Location: In Bed, New Zealand
member
165 posts
Location: In Bed, New Zealand
Posted:
on the subject of american ppl, most americans i have met have been pretty sound...however, i have met some ppl that had some nasty right wing views that i didnt agree with. this is no different from any other westernised country (i.e. UK, Australia). i blame the media and the government.
however it makes me wonder why ppl want to go to live in that country when:
* The US economy is 100% dependant on the dollar being used for the international comodity markets and the country is actually bankrupt, it has debts it could never pay.
* The US govenment has absolute contempt for the poulation. It doesn't matter how many of us disagree with a policy we are still required to take what we are given.
* Presidential candidates are nearly always members of the same secret society, the Skull and Bones. Both Kerry and Bush are for example. The fact that US citizens belive that anyone can be president is a total joke.
* The main US financial institutions bankrolled Hitler, in fact one of the main players was the Bush family who had their fingers in both bankong and arms manufacture, Dubya's granddaddy was dubbed 'Hitler's Angel' by the New York times in the 1930s.
* The US is not a democracy, the voting system is rigged even more than here.
* US screwed the UK into submission after ww2)
* The US is not as strong militarily as they would like us to believe (tho I guess I should know this from what happened in Vietnam).
* The US isnt a single country but a loose collection of states, some of which little in common, culturally economically and politically. Patriotism is the main mechanism used to hide this fact from themselves and the rest of the world.
furthermore:
https://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/101206K.shtml
or
https://www.guardian.co.uk/korea/article/0,2763,952289,00.html
furtherfurthermore
on the subject of american ppl, most americans i have met have been pretty sound...however, i have met some ppl that had some nasty right wing views that i didnt agree with. this is no different from any other westernised country (i.e. UK, Australia). i blame the media and the government.
however it makes me wonder why ppl want to go to live in that country when:
* The US economy is 100% dependant on the dollar being used for the international comodity markets and the country is actually bankrupt, it has debts it could never pay.
* The US govenment has absolute contempt for the poulation. It doesn't matter how many of us disagree with a policy we are still required to take what we are given.
* Presidential candidates are nearly always members of the same secret society, the Skull and Bones. Both Kerry and Bush are for example. The fact that US citizens belive that anyone can be president is a total joke.
* The main US financial institutions bankrolled Hitler, in fact one of the main players was the Bush family who had their fingers in both bankong and arms manufacture, Dubya's granddaddy was dubbed 'Hitler's Angel' by the New York times in the 1930s.
* The US is not a democracy, the voting system is rigged even more than here.
* US screwed the UK into submission after ww2)
* The US is not as strong militarily as they would like us to believe (tho I guess I should know this from what happened in Vietnam).
* The US isnt a single country but a loose collection of states, some of which little in common, culturally economically and politically. Patriotism is the main mechanism used to hide this fact from themselves and the rest of the world.
furthermore:
Written by:
Given the nuclear crisis involving North Korea, we are republishing, with minor revisions, this six-year-old article about millions of dollars allegedly funneled from the Rev. Sun Myung Moon - The Washington Times founder and a Bush family financial backer - to leaders of North Korea's communist dictatorship in the 1990s.
https://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/101206K.shtml
or
Written by:
Donald Rumsfeld, the US defence secretary, sat on the board of a company which three years ago sold two light water nuclear reactors to North Korea - a country he now regards as part of the "axis of evil" and which has been targeted for regime change by Washington because of its efforts to build nuclear weapons.
https://www.guardian.co.uk/korea/article/0,2763,952289,00.html
furtherfurthermore
Written by: ]Land of the "free" is #53 together with Botswana, Tonga and Croatia
The United States (53rd) has fallen nine places since last year, after being in 17th position in the first year of the Index, in 2002. Relations between the media and the Bush administration sharply deteriorated after the president used the pretext of “national security” to regard as suspicious any journalist who questioned his “war on terrorism.” The zeal of federal courts which, unlike those in 33 US states, refuse to recognise the media’s right not to reveal its sources, even threatens journalists whose investigations have no connection at all with terrorism.
Freelance journalist and blogger Josh Wolf was imprisoned when he refused to hand over his video archives. Sudanese cameraman Sami al-Haj, who works for the pan-Arab broadcaster Al-Jazeera, has been held without trial since June 2002 at the US military base at Guantanamo, and Associated Press photographer Bilal Hussein has been held by US authorities in Iraq since April this year.[/quote
https://www.rsf.org/article.php3?id_article=19388
now please tell me why the US is so great?? the only thing going for it is the countryside, road trips and the psy-trance scene (and even that has been shat on by the powers that be when they marched into a party with guns and dogs). freedom of speech and expression ?? i think not
EDITED_BY: biggins (1161655896)Wielding a Wooden Spoon
NYC
9,232 posts
Location: NYC, NY, USA
9,232 posts
Location: NYC, NY, USA
Posted:
Here's a question for ya. Did y'all people have a choice of what womb to slide out of? Because I don't remember having a choice.
Was there some kind of questionaire that you filled out in some ethreal space before you were born? Y'all were like "Oh heavens no, I'm not going to be born AMERICAN... Look at that shabby government and lack of global awareness... Nothing short of a British uterus will do for me ThankYouVeryMuchGoodDay."
I'm consistantly surprised by the automatic reactionary antiamerican rhetoric that consistantly comes up FROM SEEMINGLY ACCEPTING LIBERALS. It's something that I've never seen in the liberal community in America.
It just startles me to see such a seemingly openminded community consistantly be so insenstive about this one issue.
This is something that I bitch about too much so I'll shut up.
Written by: biggins
however it makes me wonder why ppl want to go to that country ...
Here's a question for ya. Did y'all people have a choice of what womb to slide out of? Because I don't remember having a choice.
Was there some kind of questionaire that you filled out in some ethreal space before you were born? Y'all were like "Oh heavens no, I'm not going to be born AMERICAN... Look at that shabby government and lack of global awareness... Nothing short of a British uterus will do for me ThankYouVeryMuchGoodDay."
I'm consistantly surprised by the automatic reactionary antiamerican rhetoric that consistantly comes up FROM SEEMINGLY ACCEPTING LIBERALS. It's something that I've never seen in the liberal community in America.
It just startles me to see such a seemingly openminded community consistantly be so insenstive about this one issue.
This is something that I bitch about too much so I'll shut up.
Well, shall we go?
Yes, let's go.
[They do not move.]
NYC
9,232 posts
Location: NYC, NY, USA
9,232 posts
Location: NYC, NY, USA
Posted:
Heh... Molly and I were wondering the demographics of the person who said that. She naturally assumed that he was a born Patriotic American and I naturally assumed that he was an immigrant. The only folks I've ever seen talking about how wonderful and free America is are recent immigrants. I guess it depends on what you compare it to.
In hindsight I'm sure Molly is right. Especially if I go with the stereotype of the southern patriot. I still thought it was interesting that I naturally assumed he was an immigrant. We don't really have patriots up here. Well, only the football team.
Written by: Prometheus
First some background. I was having a discussion with a friend who seems to think that everyone wants to to either come to the US or make their country just like ours. He thinks America's the best place on the planet and that if other countries don't like us, it's because they're jealous of our standard of living and immense freedoms.
Heh... Molly and I were wondering the demographics of the person who said that. She naturally assumed that he was a born Patriotic American and I naturally assumed that he was an immigrant. The only folks I've ever seen talking about how wonderful and free America is are recent immigrants. I guess it depends on what you compare it to.
In hindsight I'm sure Molly is right. Especially if I go with the stereotype of the southern patriot. I still thought it was interesting that I naturally assumed he was an immigrant. We don't really have patriots up here. Well, only the football team.
Well, shall we go?
Yes, let's go.
[They do not move.]
SILVER Member
member
165 posts
Location: In Bed, New Zealand
member
165 posts
Location: In Bed, New Zealand
Posted:
mate, seriously. do i even have to respond to that?...tell you what....just for you...i will...no i do not think that you have to fill out an "in-uterine" application form when you are conceived. the idea is daft and inconoceivable in this day and age
you have made a few assumptions here in your post when in fact you do not know me or my opinions (except those noted above). I wouold like to point out here and now that shold these ethereal in-uterine applicationo forms exist then, given what i know now i would not choose the UK either. the UK is just as bad as the US, if not worse *thinks of small yappy dog as a metaphor for the UK*
Now this thread is about americans, i have stated my opinion of americans in my post above. all of these were based on real interactions with real americans both in the US and outside of the US and, surprisingly, they are jst like other human beings *Shock horror!!!!*. i then go onto post a few facts constitue "automatic reactionary antiamerican rhetoric" when, the thread starter asks
all i have done is post some facts as to why i wouldnt go to the US and why i dont like america. to post a thread like this on a public board is asking for answers like this. I say again the UK, my homeland that i love to bits and has all many friends within its borders, is just as bad.
to further answer the question i put it to you that the US has people coming to it for the same reason that people come to the UK cos they think its great and are forcefed this propaganda by the media.
OKI, i'll stop being some green left wing liberal vegitarian whining pomme
EDITED_BY: biggins (1161657647)
Written by: NYC
Here's a question for ya. Did y'all people have a choice of what womb to slide out of? Because I don't remember having a choice.
Was there some kind of questionaire that you filled out in some ethreal space before you were born? Y'all were like "Oh heavens no, I'm not going to be born AMERICAN... Look at that shabby government and lack of global awareness... Nothing short of a British uterus will do for me ThankYouVeryMuchGoodDay."
mate, seriously. do i even have to respond to that?...tell you what....just for you...i will...no i do not think that you have to fill out an "in-uterine" application form when you are conceived. the idea is daft and inconoceivable in this day and age
Written by: ]I'm consistantly surprised by the automatic reactionary antiamerican rhetoric that consistantly comes up FROM SEEMINGLY ACCEPTING LIBERALS. It's something that I've never seen in the liberal community in America.
It just startles me to see such a seemingly openminded community consistantly be so insenstive about this one issue.[/quote
you have made a few assumptions here in your post when in fact you do not know me or my opinions (except those noted above). I wouold like to point out here and now that shold these ethereal in-uterine applicationo forms exist then, given what i know now i would not choose the UK either. the UK is just as bad as the US, if not worse *thinks of small yappy dog as a metaphor for the UK*
Now this thread is about americans, i have stated my opinion of americans in my post above. all of these were based on real interactions with real americans both in the US and outside of the US and, surprisingly, they are jst like other human beings *Shock horror!!!!*. i then go onto post a few facts constitue "automatic reactionary antiamerican rhetoric" when, the thread starter asks
Written by:
If you dislike America, why? Is it our foreign policy? Our attitude? Envy? Is it stereotypical, or is there a cogent, definable reason?
all i have done is post some facts as to why i wouldnt go to the US and why i dont like america. to post a thread like this on a public board is asking for answers like this. I say again the UK, my homeland that i love to bits and has all many friends within its borders, is just as bad.
to further answer the question i put it to you that the US has people coming to it for the same reason that people come to the UK cos they think its great and are forcefed this propaganda by the media.
Written by: ]This is something that I bitch about too much so I'll shut up.
OKI, i'll stop being some green left wing liberal vegitarian whining pomme
EDITED_BY: biggins (1161657647)
Wielding a Wooden Spoon
SILVER Member
member
165 posts
Location: In Bed, New Zealand
member
165 posts
Location: In Bed, New Zealand
Posted:
exactly, its completely relative. If you've come from a country where youo live in complete poverty and fear for your life. somewhere were you can relax, earn a living and buy all this stuff then the country you find yourself in is going to seem SO much better. I've been staying witht some ppl that teach immigrants coming into the Oz. some of the things some of them have been thru are pretty frikkin scarey.
Written by:
The only folks I've ever seen talking about how wonderful and free America is are recent immigrants. I guess it depends on what you compare it to.
exactly, its completely relative. If you've come from a country where youo live in complete poverty and fear for your life. somewhere were you can relax, earn a living and buy all this stuff then the country you find yourself in is going to seem SO much better. I've been staying witht some ppl that teach immigrants coming into the Oz. some of the things some of them have been thru are pretty frikkin scarey.
Wielding a Wooden Spoon
SILVER Member
what goes around comes around. unless you're into stalls.
4,030 posts
Location: Bali, Australia
what goes around comes around. unless you're into stalls.
4,030 posts
Location: Bali, Australia
Posted:
Didn't this all happen on a recent thread?
Is my life flashing before my eyes? Slowly?
Didn't this all happen on a recent thread?
Is my life flashing before my eyes? Slowly?
.....Can't juggle balls but I sure as hell can juggle details....
SILVER Member
Pooh-Bah
1,848 posts
Location: Adelaide, SA, Australia
Pooh-Bah
1,848 posts
Location: Adelaide, SA, Australia
Posted:
mmm... yes... i think it's relative. the usa's prolly much better than like... botswana... or something... but personally given the choise between the states, the uk and australia? i'm staying down-under thanks.
sure we have a 70-something year old prime minister who seems to think it's actually the 50's outside and that the sun shines out of dubbya's bum... but he'll be dead soon, and out of office before that even.
i mean, from all that i've heard you guys whinging about the usa really doesn't sound like that nice a place to live. and besides, we have better weather
mmm... yes... i think it's relative. the usa's prolly much better than like... botswana... or something... but personally given the choise between the states, the uk and australia? i'm staying down-under thanks.
sure we have a 70-something year old prime minister who seems to think it's actually the 50's outside and that the sun shines out of dubbya's bum... but he'll be dead soon, and out of office before that even.
i mean, from all that i've heard you guys whinging about the usa really doesn't sound like that nice a place to live. and besides, we have better weather
"i am exotic, and must keep my arms down" - Rougie
"i don't understand what penises have to do with getting married" - Foxie
Stargazer
6,650 posts
6,650 posts
Posted:
I'm not going to read much of what other ppl have written on this thread, because you're asking my unique opinion (I guess)
*takes deep breath and puts on bulletproof vest, one finger in the ear and expects NYC to fall into the same old pattern
right after I send this post*
First I would like to come to the general (negative) overview, that is closely related to stereotypes:
I consider the US to be one of the most fraudolent political systems that exist on the planet, along with the "Republic of China"... The majority of US-Americans are the victims of massive media propaganda. The electoral (two party) system is flawed, the foreign policy is crap and the attitude towards environmental issues is generally devastating. As is the ignorance towards the rest of the planet.
The "american dream" is as likely to come true, as to win the jackpot in the lottery, or get struck by Lightning.
"American culture" is so much more than McD's, KFC, Disney, and Baseball and visiting the "National Museum of native american Indians" in Manhattan (is it still nexxt to the Bronx?) a few years back, I was completely devastated. Mainly by the way it appeared as if that the history of the US started with Columbus' arrival only.
First time ever arriving in JFK-airport I had to take the Bus, as the A-train was broken. I crossed Queens (I guess - long time ago) and was instantly scared by what I saw.
I know that "the US" are far too diverse to brush it over the same edge, especially Ney York City is NOT representative for the entire country - but the condition in which this city has been... *shakes head* the roads, the smell, the highrise buildings, rats on the streets, the sun barely touching the ground - make it a nightmare to live long term (at least for me).
There have not been many places in which I feared for my physical health more but in NY, Miami and L A. The level of hostility and "don'treallygiveashit" attitude was more than scary - have not experienced anything similar in any other part of the world, but maybe Rio.
The level of ignorance as in "what's going on outside the country" is frightening, as is the level of education on the "restoftheworld" - it's as if it would not exist, like in the movie "The 13th floor"... of all news, I remember less than 5% being international (except for CNN).
There'd be some more, but I'd appear completely preoccupied and negative about the US, so here's the flipside off my coin:
I have rarely come across much more natural beauty as in the Midwest/ Boston area at fall, Conetticut and below at springtime, Colorado and Utah in winter, Grand Canyon, Sequoia, Zion, Redwoods and Big Sur - WOW - the nature is overwhelmingly beautiful - it's driven me to tears, Southern California in fall... phew.... *gets emotional by the mere memory*
Now, you may say I love the US - if only not so many Americans were living there - but this ain't true.
As I said, I met so many incredibly nice Americans, who were so easy going, openminded, funny and intelligent, provided so much hospitality, that it was sheer fun, most of the time when travelling the country.
Simply taking people as where they are (from) ("they" are too divers as to put them into the same bucket)...
It's a shame that they are so entangled and struck by this diversity, incapeable of necessary, fundamental reforms of their system (no wonder if there are 300 Million people in the same country, ranging from Alaskan cold to Nevadan desert heat).
"They" have made extremely great progress/ achievements, unfortunately there is no light without a shadow, no fire without smoke.
But for the first time there might be the chance that a woman runs for presidency, or an african american.
Hope dies last and I hope this one is never coming true
EDITED_BY: FireTom (1161697343)
I'm not going to read much of what other ppl have written on this thread, because you're asking my unique opinion (I guess)
*takes deep breath and puts on bulletproof vest, one finger in the ear and expects NYC to fall into the same old pattern
right after I send this post*First I would like to come to the general (negative) overview, that is closely related to stereotypes:
I consider the US to be one of the most fraudolent political systems that exist on the planet, along with the "Republic of China"... The majority of US-Americans are the victims of massive media propaganda. The electoral (two party) system is flawed, the foreign policy is crap and the attitude towards environmental issues is generally devastating. As is the ignorance towards the rest of the planet.
The "american dream" is as likely to come true, as to win the jackpot in the lottery, or get struck by Lightning.
"American culture" is so much more than McD's, KFC, Disney, and Baseball and visiting the "National Museum of native american Indians" in Manhattan (is it still nexxt to the Bronx?) a few years back, I was completely devastated. Mainly by the way it appeared as if that the history of the US started with Columbus' arrival only.
First time ever arriving in JFK-airport I had to take the Bus, as the A-train was broken. I crossed Queens (I guess - long time ago) and was instantly scared by what I saw.
I know that "the US" are far too diverse to brush it over the same edge, especially Ney York City is NOT representative for the entire country - but the condition in which this city has been... *shakes head* the roads, the smell, the highrise buildings, rats on the streets, the sun barely touching the ground - make it a nightmare to live long term (at least for me).
There have not been many places in which I feared for my physical health more but in NY, Miami and L A. The level of hostility and "don'treallygiveashit" attitude was more than scary - have not experienced anything similar in any other part of the world, but maybe Rio.
The level of ignorance as in "what's going on outside the country" is frightening, as is the level of education on the "restoftheworld" - it's as if it would not exist, like in the movie "The 13th floor"... of all news, I remember less than 5% being international (except for CNN).
There'd be some more, but I'd appear completely preoccupied and negative about the US, so here's the flipside off my coin:
I have rarely come across much more natural beauty as in the Midwest/ Boston area at fall, Conetticut and below at springtime, Colorado and Utah in winter, Grand Canyon, Sequoia, Zion, Redwoods and Big Sur - WOW - the nature is overwhelmingly beautiful - it's driven me to tears, Southern California in fall... phew.... *gets emotional by the mere memory*
Now, you may say I love the US - if only not so many Americans were living there - but this ain't true.
As I said, I met so many incredibly nice Americans, who were so easy going, openminded, funny and intelligent, provided so much hospitality, that it was sheer fun, most of the time when travelling the country.
Simply taking people as where they are (from) ("they" are too divers as to put them into the same bucket)...
It's a shame that they are so entangled and struck by this diversity, incapeable of necessary, fundamental reforms of their system (no wonder if there are 300 Million people in the same country, ranging from Alaskan cold to Nevadan desert heat).
"They" have made extremely great progress/ achievements, unfortunately there is no light without a shadow, no fire without smoke.
But for the first time there might be the chance that a woman runs for presidency, or an african american.
Hope dies last and I hope this one is never coming true
EDITED_BY: FireTom (1161697343)
the best smiles are the ones you lead to 
BRONZE Member
Pooh-Bah
1,872 posts
Location: Canada
Pooh-Bah
1,872 posts
Location: Canada
Posted:
Personally, I have mixed emotions about America as a country. When I walk down to the end of my driveway, and look across the water to Washington state, I see sparkles. I have a hard time deciding if these are caused by the sun reflecting off the gold that's rumoured to be lying in the streets, or the sun glinting of the minutemen's rifles.
Politically, our large southern neighbour really should get a grip, and I'm really hoping that America's paranoias, don't become ours.
But this thread is asking our opinions on Americans, and I have to say, that given the thousands of Americans I've met in my life, I like these guys. The people that is, not the government, and there is a big difference between the two ( IMO )
Personally, I have mixed emotions about America as a country. When I walk down to the end of my driveway, and look across the water to Washington state, I see sparkles. I have a hard time deciding if these are caused by the sun reflecting off the gold that's rumoured to be lying in the streets, or the sun glinting of the minutemen's rifles.
Politically, our large southern neighbour really should get a grip, and I'm really hoping that America's paranoias, don't become ours.
But this thread is asking our opinions on Americans, and I have to say, that given the thousands of Americans I've met in my life, I like these guys.
The people that is, not the government, and there is a big difference between the two ( IMO ) SILVER Member
Doesn't play well with others...
187 posts
Location: CANADA
Doesn't play well with others...
187 posts
Location: CANADA
Posted:
Written by:
But this thread is asking our opinions on Americans, and I have to say, that given the thousands of Americans I've met in my life, I like these guys. The people that is, not the government, and there is a big difference between the two ( IMO )
I smile because I have no idea what is going on...
Stargazer
6,650 posts
6,650 posts
Posted:
not according to this guy:
But I'm happy to join ranks with you on your attitude...
And to answer the initial question short and precisely:
I'm drawn between
and 
EDITED_BY: FireTom (1161700091)
not according to this guy:
Written by: Joseph de Maistre
Every nation has the government it deserves.
But I'm happy to join ranks with you on your attitude...
And to answer the initial question short and precisely:
I'm drawn between
and EDITED_BY: FireTom (1161700091)
the best smiles are the ones you lead to
NYC
9,232 posts
Location: NYC, NY, USA
9,232 posts
Location: NYC, NY, USA
Posted:
I don't know you. I don't claim to know you. Only initial reaction was about you. When I started talking about the community I was actually talking about people other than you. That's why I made a distintion.
If you knew me, you'd know that this is something I've discussed well before you posted.
Written by: biggins
you have made a few assumptions here in your post when in fact you do not know me or my opinions (except those noted above).
I don't know you. I don't claim to know you. Only initial reaction was about you. When I started talking about the community I was actually talking about people other than you. That's why I made a distintion.
If you knew me, you'd know that this is something I've discussed well before you posted.
Well, shall we go?
Yes, let's go.
[They do not move.]
NYC
9,232 posts
Location: NYC, NY, USA
9,232 posts
Location: NYC, NY, USA
Posted:
And how could you say America is restrictive. It's not live we've banned Vegemite!
(Maybe there will be an influx of HoPers after all )
Written by: Molly
The idea of living in America affording me "immense freedoms" is baffling to me.
And how could you say America is restrictive. It's not live we've banned Vegemite!
(Maybe there will be an influx of HoPers after all
) Well, shall we go?
Yes, let's go.
[They do not move.]
PLATINUM Member
Flying Water Muppet
5,276 posts
Location: Edin-borrow., United Kingdom
Flying Water Muppet
5,276 posts
Location: Edin-borrow., United Kingdom
Posted:
NYC
'nuff said.
Written by:
How do you feel about Americans?
NYC
'nuff said.
"the now legendary" - Kaskade
"the still legendary" - Kaskade
I spunked in my friend's aquarium and the fish ate it. I love all fish. Especially the pink ones. They are my bitches. - Anon.
BRONZE Member
the henna lady
6,193 posts
Location: WNY, USA
the henna lady
6,193 posts
Location: WNY, USA
Posted:
Written by: mcpWritten by: ]How do you feel about Americans?[/quote
NYC
'nuff said.
You love him?
You hate him?
You think he's a bit too opinionated for his own good?
You think he's a big-n-sexy slice of hunk and wanna have a bite?
See. You actually should have said more.Pele
Higher, higher burning fire...making music like a choir
"Oooh look! A pub!" -exclaimed after recovering from a stupid fall
"And for the decadence of art, nothing beats a roaring fire." -TMK
NYC
9,232 posts
Location: NYC, NY, USA
9,232 posts
Location: NYC, NY, USA
Posted:
*buzzes in*
What are "Things Pele Says About Me Behind My Back?"
Written by: Pele
You love him?
You hate him?
You think he's a bit too opinionated for his own good?
You think he's a big-n-sexy slice of hunk and wanna have a bite?
*buzzes in*
What are "Things Pele Says About Me Behind My Back?"
Well, shall we go?
Yes, let's go.
[They do not move.]
PLATINUM Member
Flying Water Muppet
5,276 posts
Location: Edin-borrow., United Kingdom
Flying Water Muppet
5,276 posts
Location: Edin-borrow., United Kingdom
Posted:
pele: precisely.
pele: precisely.
"the now legendary" - Kaskade
"the still legendary" - Kaskade
I spunked in my friend's aquarium and the fish ate it. I love all fish. Especially the pink ones. They are my bitches. - Anon.
Stargazer
6,650 posts
6,650 posts
Posted:
Just don't get into so much trouble, when cleaning up your own garbage, US'sies and the world is at peas with you
US blames everybody else for own screwup - again
Just don't get into so much trouble, when cleaning up your own garbage, US'sies and the world is at peas with you
US blames everybody else for own screwup - again
the best smiles are the ones you lead to
BRONZE Member
the henna lady
6,193 posts
Location: WNY, USA
the henna lady
6,193 posts
Location: WNY, USA
Posted:
Okay, so... I realize that this thread is not really for US-ers to answer. However, I do have a couple of things I would like to contribute.
Based on my travels I am going to agree that many non-US-ers have little idea about what is actually going on here, much the same way that many US-ers are not fully informed as to world affairs. (and I say "US-ers" because technically, "American" can be used to describe anyone on North and South America, and I have heard it used as such, so I want to narrow it down).
When I went to NZ I encountered people who treated me with pity for coming from the US. I thought it was funny and appreciated it. I myself, feel sorry for many of us. lol
When I went to northern Ontario, they hushed a conversation about US politics when I walked up, saying "Shhh, she's from NY." thinking I would be ticked at their opinions. I'd overheard most of it and was able to enlighten them to my personal opinions, and that they are not uncommon. They were shocked at my disdain for my gov't.
In Vancouver, they could have cared less.
In Montreal, they were rude beyond compare...and this is the story of most every US-er who has gone there that I know.
In Nova Scotia, they were awesomely funny. "You're from the US then? Oh. I'm sorry. Check this..."
My friend came back from Scotland recently extremely upset at being rudely treated by the local patrons in pubs, but not by the business owners themselves. He even said one person started to talk with him, until he realized my friend was from the US, then he just left. It has also happened to others I know, and to a couple of Canadians. I dunno if this is common or more in the smaller towns of Scotland. Just relating it.
In Mexico, well.....I'm not even sure how to explain it.
However, growing up and hanging out with Native Americans I can tell you that no one in any other country will ever treat the majority of the people in this country with as much disdain and indifference as many of the Native Tribes.
I know that many of you say "Can you blame them?" Honestly, after hanging with them...yes. Blaming me for something that happened centuries ago, irrelevant and non-progressive to the culture. Not getting up and making a difference to further yourself and that of your culture, instead choosing to blame the past, worse. Many of the NE Native Tribes are now the ones exploiting the non-Natives and taking their money hand over fist. Many of the largest employers and businesses here are run by the Native Tribes (the Casinos). They own property entire towns are built on, and if they do not get their way, are threatening to evict entire towns. My favorite quote..."Oh, you can keep your house, you just have to get it off our land." Needless to say, they won. I love it and think it is awesome retribution. And before you jump on me for this, I have this attitude for ANYONE who tries to play the part of "victim". I have no respect for wallowing at all. I could go on, but really, in the end...
I can't help being from the US. I have looked into getting out in the past, and it is truly not so easy.
I used to get angry and frustrated with the nasty attitudes of people from other countries towards "Americans" (and I have seen it ALOT here on HoP, by people who claimed to be open minded and accepting), but they I came to realize that despite any ideas of superiority, they actually are just as prone to media control ignorance about this country as we are about theirs. Occassionally it becomes very evident when I read people from other countries telling about US history or gov't set up and have it pretty well incorrect. I kind of drop being frustrated and offended at that point, shake my head and usually walk away, feeling that if I correct them, I will be regarded as a pompous, know-it-all "American"...but if I nod and smile I am then thought of as a stupid "American". Seriously, most days when it comes to that kind of stuff, I feel I simply can not win. I've seen it in person, on here and in other areas. It's sad.
To those of you who seperate people as individuals and look at them accordingly vs. as a unit of state...thank you.
BTW, NYC, if it helps, Prometheus is now located in Virginia...however, I know a couple of his friends up here still in WNY and they would have that kind of attitude for sure. It's not always as localised as we would like it to be.
Okay, so... I realize that this thread is not really for US-ers to answer. However, I do have a couple of things I would like to contribute.
Based on my travels I am going to agree that many non-US-ers have little idea about what is actually going on here, much the same way that many US-ers are not fully informed as to world affairs. (and I say "US-ers" because technically, "American" can be used to describe anyone on North and South America, and I have heard it used as such, so I want to narrow it down).
When I went to NZ I encountered people who treated me with pity for coming from the US. I thought it was funny and appreciated it. I myself, feel sorry for many of us. lol
When I went to northern Ontario, they hushed a conversation about US politics when I walked up, saying "Shhh, she's from NY." thinking I would be ticked at their opinions. I'd overheard most of it and was able to enlighten them to my personal opinions, and that they are not uncommon. They were shocked at my disdain for my gov't.
In Vancouver, they could have cared less.
In Montreal, they were rude beyond compare...and this is the story of most every US-er who has gone there that I know.
In Nova Scotia, they were awesomely funny. "You're from the US then? Oh. I'm sorry. Check this..."
My friend came back from Scotland recently extremely upset at being rudely treated by the local patrons in pubs, but not by the business owners themselves. He even said one person started to talk with him, until he realized my friend was from the US, then he just left. It has also happened to others I know, and to a couple of Canadians. I dunno if this is common or more in the smaller towns of Scotland. Just relating it.
In Mexico, well.....I'm not even sure how to explain it.
However, growing up and hanging out with Native Americans I can tell you that no one in any other country will ever treat the majority of the people in this country with as much disdain and indifference as many of the Native Tribes.
I know that many of you say "Can you blame them?" Honestly, after hanging with them...yes. Blaming me for something that happened centuries ago, irrelevant and non-progressive to the culture. Not getting up and making a difference to further yourself and that of your culture, instead choosing to blame the past, worse. Many of the NE Native Tribes are now the ones exploiting the non-Natives and taking their money hand over fist. Many of the largest employers and businesses here are run by the Native Tribes (the Casinos). They own property entire towns are built on, and if they do not get their way, are threatening to evict entire towns. My favorite quote..."Oh, you can keep your house, you just have to get it off our land." Needless to say, they won. I love it and think it is awesome retribution. And before you jump on me for this, I have this attitude for ANYONE who tries to play the part of "victim". I have no respect for wallowing at all. I could go on, but really, in the end...
I can't help being from the US. I have looked into getting out in the past, and it is truly not so easy.
I used to get angry and frustrated with the nasty attitudes of people from other countries towards "Americans" (and I have seen it ALOT here on HoP, by people who claimed to be open minded and accepting), but they I came to realize that despite any ideas of superiority, they actually are just as prone to media control ignorance about this country as we are about theirs. Occassionally it becomes very evident when I read people from other countries telling about US history or gov't set up and have it pretty well incorrect. I kind of drop being frustrated and offended at that point, shake my head and usually walk away, feeling that if I correct them, I will be regarded as a pompous, know-it-all "American"...but if I nod and smile I am then thought of as a stupid "American". Seriously, most days when it comes to that kind of stuff, I feel I simply can not win. I've seen it in person, on here and in other areas. It's sad.
To those of you who seperate people as individuals and look at them accordingly vs. as a unit of state...thank you.
BTW, NYC, if it helps, Prometheus is now located in Virginia...however, I know a couple of his friends up here still in WNY and they would have that kind of attitude for sure. It's not always as localised as we would like it to be.
Pele
Higher, higher burning fire...making music like a choir
"Oooh look! A pub!" -exclaimed after recovering from a stupid fall
"And for the decadence of art, nothing beats a roaring fire." -TMK
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