My sister is taking an American culture something something class at the local community college. It's basically an online class of essays and papers. Her latest topic made me curious about your opinions because I've heard both sides. You don't have to write a paper, but which way do you tend to be and why?
I'd love to hear your opinion whether or not you are an American or have ever lived here. In fact, I'd enjoy the opinion of nonAmericans about this topic.
Here is what her teacher gave them ...
"America
should just forget the rest of the world. When we try to help, they take
advantage of us. When we try to do what we have to in order to defend
ourselves, we are viewed as evil. Well, if they don't appreciate us, fine. If
they don't like us, fine. We should just stay at home, keep our money here, and
if the rest of the world wants to go to heck in a hand basket, fine by
me!" Either agree or disagree with this sentiment and defend your answer.
5 comments:
Wow, that's an aggressively-worded statement. I kind of want to read an answer from someone who says "agree," since it really doesn't seem like it's set up for that.
I think the main thing is that obviously "forget" isn't an opposite to "rule over." The frustration in the rest of the statement reveals an opinion that America should be welcomed everywhere on its own terms, and that the countries playing host should just be grateful for the attention. You should never give money or other aid with the expectation that you will be paid back, let alone with the expectation that doing so gives you power over the other person. Give only what you want to give freely, with the expectation that everyone who receives help from you will look after their own interests and not show the appreciation you want. Then any kindness shown to you in return will be a pleasant surprise and there won't be any frustration and disappointment when it doesn't happen.
Trying to post my comment again ;)
Erm... what the...
I find that extremely offensive as a non-American, especially since this is not at all what America does.
America only "helps" other country when it is to America's advantage, when US politicians have something to gain by it.
"Keep our money here"? Well US debt is so large, that proportionally no other country comes close - because it wouldn't have been allowed.
There's just so much wrong with that statement, I don't even know where to begin.
Thanks for your comments! Becky, I'm glad you tried again despite the hard time the other day. :)
This statement is like saying the biggest capitalist country in the world (i.e., the USA) is a non-profit organization.
It existed just to help others without looking for a payback.
If the USA is a company it should invest in a good PR. The world is no longer looking at USA as the country that once helped Europe defeat the Nazis.
The generation born after WWII think of America as a country that has militant or military bases everywhere in the world. How this is different than the Roman or the British Empires?
Thanks for your comments! It's amazing that some people have these thoughts. I guess they believe the US only does good as they gaze through their rose-colored glasses. :)
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