If you're looking for the article, America the Untethered, you won't find it here. Go to Class Resources and look under Unit 2. After you've finished reading, come back here and share your thoughts! :)
Lexi Finkelman Period 2 America is a very self-consumed nation. As Rieff stated: "every nation, not just the United States, considers itself exceptional to some extent." America does have reason to be proud about our accomplishments, but looking in from other countries we are not as "exceptional" as we think. "the United States will remain strong enough to exercise considerable power for the foreseeable future", which will keep our faith in America going. The only issue is that outsiders do not see it from our eyes.
Ronald Costa, Period 2 America's belief that it is superior is detrimental to its relationship with other nations. Intervening with other nations' issues is beyond the scope of America's power and influence. As the nations of the world become more integrated due to technology, America is losing the "superiority" it might once have had. Each nation now depend on each other, and this self-entitlement cannot be justified as America needs them as much as they need America.
For Americans to think of their nation as "exceptional" cannot be argued for it promotes the sense of pride and nationalism. We may have a sole opinion that our nation is unique because of the broad opportunities that each individual has, or also because of the freedom that we possess,unlike other strict countries. However, for America to think itself superior to other cultures is contradictory and biased. That is the opinion of America, and is not seen the same way in the eyes of other countries. I would like to ask America this,"why do we depend on other countries, such as China, to ensure that our national bank won't die? In my opinion, our bank system would have collapsed if it weren't for China and other nations that helped us out. If we are superior, why are us Americans in a huge debt? Well, it is because we are not superior as we think. We merely rely on other nations, and vice versa.
The American view that we are a superior nation is a main element of our political culture. If it were not for our national pride, United States democracy would not exist the way it does today. The U.S. has a unique type of democracy unlike any other nation which includes the belief in individualism and accomplishing goals without help. Although we are not as exceptional as we think, it helps to believe so in order to keep our nation strong. The challenge is to keep peace among our partnering nations while remaining a proud nation.
The Pledge that we say every morning implies that the United States are one, but this can be challenged as seen in the article. The union does have a strong sense of national pride and think very highly of themselves. WE are the melting pot. WE are diverse. WE are tolerant. but this tolerance that we boast about is not always seen outside of our borders and this is seen all throughout history, in and out of the country. "The Red Scare" that terrified the government. "The Domino Effect." This all says that THEIR way is the wrong way and OUR way is better. How are we to say that when we aren't there? it can also be explained with states vs. national forms of government. States group together for what they think is the best way and so does national. really, there is never that fully "united" nation because there isn't a "How to run a successful, united country for Dumbies" guide.
The name in its self, "The United States of America", portrays that we think we are one superior nation. But the truth is, yes we are not perfect, we are not always one, and we can't always solve every problem that gets handed to us. We think we are the exception in the world, and this is the one of the greatest things that keeps our country driven. Although this comes off to other parts of the world as something not attractive it is the one thing that keeps us whole.
Ryan Ng Huang Perd2 Like the title says "America the UNtethered" America is not attached to other nations. Since, 9/11 We believed it our right to declare the war on terrorism and increase troop activity in iraq. Also, a lot of countries dislike AMerica because of our individualsim, even though other countries are individualists too, such as asains ans europeans. Our countrymen also, distrusts the government, but that is their right, because under the constitution we have the right to change the government if necessary. Our actions might appeal to other countries as arrogant, or rash, but that's what makes our country stand out. We do things that we think are right, such as Iraq. We were attacked, so we decided the best maunver in retaliating.
America has every right to practice exceptionalism because we are exceptional. maybe not this day in age what with all the debt and useless war making...but this nation was founded upon something powerful, genuine and for lack of a better way to say this, exceptional. all nations will always think they are better than other nations in some way, and even if America wasn't totally conceited they'd find a way to hate us. just like we'll always find a way to hate our president. exceptionalism keeps us motivated, and there's nothing wrong with that. -Rima
America was founded on strong bases of nationalism and pride in one's country, and I believe that idea is one of the biggest factors that has held our country and government together while others have crumbled to totalitarianism and militaristic governments. If it weren't for our "exceptional" behavior, America would not have the unique and "exceptional" leadership that has carried us to this day. So for America to think that it is an exceptional country should be perfectly okay because that is exactly what we are. But to claim superiority is just nonsense because of the lack of independence that America has from other countries, constantly relying on other nations to help support our own, like Melissa's great example with China and our bank system. No country will ever be superior to others because everyone will need each other in some way.
I think that the unilateralist idea is very interesting and true to the common beliefs of americans. we are very closeminded to the opinions and views from foreign countries. this makes us independant, but at the same time, unliked by other countries. I think it is funny that the article says how americans value "individual responsibility" when it seems like every other day someone is blaming the govt. for somthing. Overall, i agree with the opinions of the article.
Americans have every right to believe they are better than any other person. Our government gives us that right. But because we think so highly of ourselves the rest of the world believes we are conceited and hates us for that. Our exceptionalism is what keeps our country going. It is just a strong sense of national pride, but other countries think we are arrogant. Nationalism and pride in the country is what has kept our country together from the very get go. Just because Americans think they are exceptional does not necessarily mean they think they are superior to every other country.
It is true that our country is very self centered and self consumed. But when we are given the rights that we have, it is as if we should be. We hear about more people wanting to come to America because of the rights and freedoms we have rather than Americans leaving because of issues in our country or better rights in another. We as Americans feel pride in our country because all the rights we have. Other nations look at our pride and see it as a bad thing. We are frowned upon because our passion and pride comes of as conceited and narcissistic. Our pride for our country is often mistaken as superiority but not one country is superior to another because we are constantly helping each other out.
America's nationalism is what keeps the nation united. The belief that our culture is superior to others should not be hated by other nations because it is merely an opinion. I agree with the statement that our culture is greater than other nation's cultures because even though our land is so vast, our culture unites us and lets people on the West coast feel the same emotions that the people on the East coast feels. Artists like Michael Jackson succeeded in uniting the world. The culture of intellect and religion once brought America together. America has the power to unite its nation with culture unlike most nations who don't even know their neighbors. America is definitely superior to others in its united culture.
Is it wrong for Americans to feel as though they are the best when they are given the right to do so everyday. There should not be a problem with a nation wanting to show how great they feel they are because every nation always feels they are better than the next in some shape or form. And Americans wanting to show that they are superior is only human nature, though we may not have fixed everything that is wrong in the world we are still pushing forward and striving to one up the next. I believe we are superior because of the great standards we were founded on and eventually we are only going to grow to better ourselves. Our superior way of thinking is what keeps our country united as a whole.
Every nation has a right to excerise Nationalism. Yes The United States is a world power and has the power to excerise to keep the world safe..but what about the other nations such as North Korea, Japan or even Soviet Union. As Rieff states: "Every nation, not just the United States, considers itself exceptional to some extent." Its this great Nationalism that keeps us united as one.
Nationalism is strong in the U.S., and we feel like we are superior to other nations. Despite that other nations feel the same way about their own country, America is disliked by foreign nations due to our sense of pride. Our nationalism is what keeps our multicultural society together and united, and there is nothing wrong with feling superior, especially if other nations feel the same way. We cant feel guilt for having our sense of pride, especially if the U.S. tends to help foreign, unapproving countries when they are in need.
There is no way any other nation can blame a America for having pride in there way of life and living in general. It is true that every nation has the right to practice their own form or way of nationalism and take pride in their nation. However, it is completely true that America tends to have an almost sociopathic way of looking at their nation's positive implications. In short, they think they are perfect, without understanding the consequences of seeing the negatives. This is the impression that America gives to all the other nations, that they are cocky. On the other hand it is completely reasonable that they are cocky because of their high standards of living and accomplishments.
While it is crucial that America must understand the reasons why it is not well liked throughout the world, it cannot focus on a national agenda set to cater to foreign opinion. To do that would be a betrayal of our American spirit. Part of our success as a nation can be attributed to being outside foreign influence. Yet in such a inter-connected world, it is ignorant to think that America is 100% correct on every issue. While we should take into account foreign attitude in shaping international policy, we must never be afraid in creating a path of our own.
As Americans we have a lot of pride within ourselves. We do as we wish and do not truly care if we are being judged by other nations. What we do within the United States is our business. We as Americans have the right to run our own government. A government that you will not find anywhere else in the world. If we want to invade Iraq because we were attacked first then we will. Just because European countries feel we are threatening world peace doesn't mean that all of a sudden we are going to pull all our troops out.
America is exceptional, this is true in every way are able to look at it. Being self-reliant with a sense of will power and knowing all things are possible here in America. This is a proud nation which us Americans acknowledge as a great country. Though others may not agree with what we had done before in the past and how our government right now is handling the current issues, we still show our support and voice out opinions freely. As America continues to face the challenges out in the world, we are confident to find a solution for every problem with the help of other countries we call our allies. Even though America can do this alone, it is more safe and beneficial to have back up.
As Americans we view our country to be the best because we have a unique, and culturaly diverse political system and a democratic government. As Americans we find that we have a superior nation with all our technology, sciences, diversity, freedoms, rights, and patriotism, but other countries believe that their country is the best compared to ours. I believe that everyboy thinks their country is the best because they live there and have pride from where they came from and what they have, Americans have it here, British have it in Europe, and French have it in France. The answer of which country is superior, will cange which every person you ask in a counry, they will always say their country is the best.
In some ways it might be okay for Americans to think their nation is exceptional. Many Americans feel this way because of all the opportunities and freedom America has to offer, while in other countries not so much. America might be "exceptional" but America is not superior to other nations. The opinions of Americans allows them to think their nation is superior to others, which in fact is not true because its an opinion. America must set aside it's pride and learn to see other nations as it's equal. Other nations depend on America as well as America should depend on other nations. The help of other nations is the only way America will remain integrated with the rest of the world and also strong.
This idea that America is a superior country is only generalized by people that have not experienced any other form of government or culture. I mean, there is nothing wrong with practicing nationalism, but to boast about it and to be ignorant to other points of view is simply being closed-minded. The United States is different in some ways, but so is every other country. No other country has had a melting pot that matches America's scale, which can make it exceptional in that sense. Back in the day, America USED to be the only democratic country, but that does not make it exceptional anymore as it is no longer the only one. To say this nation is superior, would simply not make sense. America is not even completely independent. Without China, the nation would have already collapsed. So many of the illegal immigrants considerably affect the economy as well. This country is also trillions of dollars in debt while countries in northern Europe and the Middle East are making more money than they spend. Others also think we are disgusting for eating factory processed food like McDonald's. One out of two marriages fail here, while arranged marriages in other countries are even more successful. So, the idea of superiority is simply a generalization out of pride in every nation. There really is no superior nation as every one has its good notes and defects.
I, Joshua Fonbuena, America's individuality and isolation and self sustenance will prove to slowly weaken America. If it does not broaden out and cooperate with other nations it will lose its "superiority" over the world. Since most problems are now multilateral, America will prove to be less effective worldwide.
The reason that American thinks that it's so superior is because of the things it has had to overcome in the past two centuries. Nations kept looking at the change - a set of colonies to a grand 50 states, and it's had many great changes over the past, and has usually relied on itself to get things done. Now, America has overcome it's biggest issues and doesn't really have anything to impress others countries with. One of the reasons it has become unpopular is that before, countries could look at America from afar and be impressed, but now they look at it's declining economy and the trouble it makes for itself and other countries by trying to "help them" and must think.. " oh, that's pathetic". America was moving up in the world, and although it is indeed indispensable, it is also more faulty. In some points, America is like the hot-headed bully that just thinks he/she can get whatever it wants, and the rest of the countries can't really oppose. The U.S is just not a team players. America is superior to other countries in a lot of ways, but it may have just as many faults as it has merits.
Katie Russo, period 2 I think that it's ignorant and single-minded for America to say that they are superior to other countries. Each country has its own unique characteristics that set it apart from others, and every country contributes something to the world. I do not believe that one country is more superior than another. One country may be the wealthiest while another may be the most democratic and another may be the most economical. There is no way to judge what makes one country more superior than another. I think that a large reason why America is not liked by other countries is because of America's "superior" attitudes. In many instances through out America's history, America has taken on this Big Brother persona. We've put ourselves into other countries wars and conflicts, for example Afghanistan, because we felt that we could fix their problems. I think that this Big Brother attitude has led to the negative sentiments towards America.
Katie Reber Per. 3 First of I'd like to ask, how accurate are the numbers that that the polls are showing and who did they poll? Throwing out percentages like that can be shocking but the article never informs what the questions was that was asked or how the poll was conducted. After last week I have become more skeptical about the veracity of the polls that are given out. There are good and bad points about being a unilateralist government. National pride makes the US a strong nation, but being too proud can also make enemies. Just like most things in life the US must find a balance between unilateralism and multilateralism.
America may seem to be an exceptional nation due to its innovative way of government and its conglomeration of different ethnicities, however this does not necessarily put us on a pedestal overseeing all other nations; we are not omniscient. I, as do many Americans, take pride in being an American citizen and feel fortunate to be living in a country with many opportunities and freedoms. Our collective pride makes us a strong nation. However, not all countries feel as though the "American way" is the simply the best. Our interfering in other nations can actually cause more problems; the United States commonly takes control of problems in different nations and sometimes, as good as the US's intentions are, the dilemma only increases. Our need to take personal responsibility for other nations problems makes us seem arrogant, thereby making this country increasingly disliked by a number of nations globally. Simply put, the US is not the superpower of the world. As Americans, we love our country and support its system of government and its policies and liberties; we take pride in being citizens. However, people globally have their own thoughts on governments and nations. Ultimately, I don't know if there truly is a one and only "exceptional" nation.
I believe that we as a country should believe that we are one of the greatest countries. After all, we do have one of the most reliable governments that protects our rights. Unilateralism is what makes a country a country. Our holidays, our patriotism, and what we stand for and believe in is what defines us as America. Of course in some issues we must have a multilateralistic point of view because we have to respect the jurisdiction and rights of another country. We must be patrotic though and unilateralistic because without a country's people being confident in its abilities that country has lost its infrastructure as a nation. We must be confident but we also have to know the line between confidence and pride.
The other nations shouldn't care what America does because We are not attached to these other nations. Since the tragic events that occurred on 9/11, We the people the U.S believed it our right to declare the war on Iraq because of their attacks against our nation. Another fact that other countries abhor our nation is because of our individualism, even though some countries are individualists as well. Lastly, our people don’t always depend on our nation like other countries, our country shows off our true integrity and self-worth. We the people of the U.S have our rights based on the constitution. To the other nations we might be considered a variety of things which shows jealousy and cowardliness, something that We don’t express. all we express is our great nation which makes us stand out the best in this world. We believe that we make exceptional decisions such as the war against Iraq. We don’t stand for terrorism and destruction of one’s land, so We started a war for peace and pride.
I believe that Americans should not be called names for believing in what we believe in. We have the right to believe and know that our nation is better than any other nation because our exceptionalism allows our country to move forward. We may believe that our nation is superior. Which is why our nation grows and becomes stronger, through the support of the Americans. Although other nations think that we are egotistical, it is only because we have satisfaction and pride in our nation. Our nation may not be perfect, but we are trying to improve our problems one step at a time.
Adam Block per. 3 Reiff notices that, "while people in most of the world look to government to solve their problems, Americans do not." and "their belief in the power of the will, their suspicion of government, their conviction in their own benevolence." This distust of government programs by the people and set up by the Framers makes it hard for our nation to set up national programs such as Health Care, but yet America still can compete with, and work with, more self-trusting countries.
Jonathan Buenaventura P2 America has the right to call itself exceptional. The U.S. has been bashed on for its ignorance by other nations such as Europe and Asia, but that is because Americans are just proud of what we have become. We are a country that has survived by our constitution, which other countries have tried to mimic and failed. I believe that does make us exceptional.
I can see why americans would call America exceptional. America was the first modern country to adopt a democracy as its form of government and last to today. It's resources have been decisive in winning world war 2. Today, it has the strongest military of any country. But we are also trillions of dollars in debt. America should be more willing to listen to what other countries think and have them help more often, as we can no longer afford an expensive military with our growing more fragile economy.
A major theme I noticed in the article was that while America takes matter into their own hands, others rely on their government. As a result, there's more to America's exceptionalism. I respect how American's believe in individual responsibility and blame themselves for failure. However, this does not mean they are superior. I see exceptionalism as a state of mind and a national resource in which confidence and the optimistic mindset progresses the nation. As a result, America should focus on the unilateral problems because finding solutions would be more efficient. Attempting to solve multilateral problems implies that America's ego is enormous and results in criticism and maybe even conflict.
**sorry i turned it in late, i didn't know you put it on your blog.
There are countless reasons why an American should be proud to live in the US, as there are for a Frenchman to live in France. What the reasons are, are specifically unique to these nations. Why we should continue to play the game of "Mine Is Better Than Yours" is a complete mystery to me. The reason I believe America has yet to collaborate, consistently, with the rest of the world on problems such as starvation, AIDS, or global warming (for those that believe Earth is melting :p) is because "we" don't want to hold the image of "the nation that finally gave in". I would definitely agree that America's ego almost always gets in the way of solving problems that are in need of the world's attention and I do believe the US should abandon its unilateral approach on issues and takes arms with other nations to solve their multilateral issues which they have in common, as a "united nation". This message was brought to you by and approved by STEVE CARREON of PER. 3.
Lexi Finkelman Period 2
ReplyDeleteAmerica is a very self-consumed nation. As Rieff stated: "every nation, not just the United States, considers itself exceptional to some extent." America does have reason to be proud about our accomplishments, but looking in from other countries we are not as "exceptional" as we think. "the United States will remain strong enough to exercise considerable power for the foreseeable future", which will keep our faith in America going. The only issue is that outsiders do not see it from our eyes.
Ronald Costa, Period 2
ReplyDeleteAmerica's belief that it is superior is detrimental to its relationship with other nations. Intervening with other nations' issues is beyond the scope of America's power and influence. As the nations of the world become more integrated due to technology, America is losing the "superiority" it might once have had. Each nation now depend on each other, and this self-entitlement cannot be justified as America needs them as much as they need America.
Melissa Vu Per. 2
ReplyDeleteFor Americans to think of their nation as "exceptional" cannot be argued for it promotes the sense of pride and nationalism. We may have a sole opinion that our nation is unique because of the broad opportunities that each individual has, or also because of the freedom that we possess,unlike other strict countries. However, for America to think itself superior to other cultures is contradictory and biased. That is the opinion of America, and is not seen the same way in the eyes of other countries. I would like to ask America this,"why do we depend on other countries, such as China, to ensure that our national bank won't die? In my opinion, our bank system would have collapsed if it weren't for China and other nations that helped us out. If we are superior, why are us Americans in a huge debt? Well, it is because we are not superior as we think. We merely rely on other nations, and vice versa.
The American view that we are a superior nation is a main element of our political culture. If it were not for our national pride, United States democracy would not exist the way it does today. The U.S. has a unique type of democracy unlike any other nation which includes the belief in individualism and accomplishing goals without help. Although we are not as exceptional as we think, it helps to believe so in order to keep our nation strong. The challenge is to keep peace among our partnering nations while remaining a proud nation.
ReplyDeleteElizabeth Soto
per.3
Sarah Rodriguez Period 2
ReplyDeleteThe Pledge that we say every morning implies that the United States are one, but this can be challenged as seen in the article. The union does have a strong sense of national pride and think very highly of themselves. WE are the melting pot. WE are diverse. WE are tolerant. but this tolerance that we boast about is not always seen outside of our borders and this is seen all throughout history, in and out of the country. "The Red Scare" that terrified the government. "The Domino Effect." This all says that THEIR way is the wrong way and OUR way is better. How are we to say that when we aren't there? it can also be explained with states vs. national forms of government. States group together for what they think is the best way and so does national. really, there is never that fully "united" nation because there isn't a "How to run a successful, united country for Dumbies" guide.
Alysia Jones Per. 2
ReplyDeleteThe name in its self, "The United States of America", portrays that we think we are one superior nation. But the truth is, yes we are not perfect, we are not always one, and we can't always solve every problem that gets handed to us. We think we are the exception in the world, and this is the one of the greatest things that keeps our country driven. Although this comes off to other parts of the world as something not attractive it is the one thing that keeps us whole.
Ryan Ng Huang Perd2
ReplyDeleteLike the title says "America the UNtethered" America is not attached to other nations. Since, 9/11 We believed it our right to declare the war on terrorism and increase troop activity in iraq. Also, a lot of countries dislike AMerica because of our individualsim, even though other countries are individualists too, such as asains ans europeans. Our countrymen also, distrusts the government, but that is their right, because under the constitution we have the right to change the government if necessary. Our actions might appeal to other countries as arrogant, or rash, but that's what makes our country stand out. We do things that we think are right, such as Iraq. We were attacked, so we decided the best maunver in retaliating.
America has every right to practice exceptionalism because we are exceptional. maybe not this day in age what with all the debt and useless war making...but this nation was founded upon something powerful, genuine and for lack of a better way to say this, exceptional. all nations will always think they are better than other nations in some way, and even if America wasn't totally conceited they'd find a way to hate us. just like we'll always find a way to hate our president. exceptionalism keeps us motivated, and there's nothing wrong with that.
ReplyDelete-Rima
Alicia Morales Per. 2
ReplyDeleteAmerica was founded on strong bases of nationalism and pride in one's country, and I believe that idea is one of the biggest factors that has held our country and government together while others have crumbled to totalitarianism and militaristic governments. If it weren't for our "exceptional" behavior, America would not have the unique and "exceptional" leadership that has carried us to this day. So for America to think that it is an exceptional country should be perfectly okay because that is exactly what we are. But to claim superiority is just nonsense because of the lack of independence that America has from other countries, constantly relying on other nations to help support our own, like Melissa's great example with China and our bank system. No country will ever be superior to others because everyone will need each other in some way.
Josh Beauvais p.3
ReplyDeleteI think that the unilateralist idea is very interesting and true to the common beliefs of americans. we are very closeminded to the opinions and views from foreign countries. this makes us independant, but at the same time, unliked by other countries. I think it is funny that the article says how americans value "individual responsibility" when it seems like every other day someone is blaming the govt. for somthing. Overall, i agree with the opinions of the article.
Amy Marquardt p.2
ReplyDeleteAmericans have every right to believe they are better than any other person. Our government gives us that right. But because we think so highly of ourselves the rest of the world believes we are conceited and hates us for that. Our exceptionalism is what keeps our country going. It is just a strong sense of national pride, but other countries think we are arrogant. Nationalism and pride in the country is what has kept our country together from the very get go. Just because Americans think they are exceptional does not necessarily mean they think they are superior to every other country.
Deanna Bratton P.3
ReplyDeleteIt is true that our country is very self centered and self consumed. But when we are given the rights that we have, it is as if we should be. We hear about more people wanting to come to America because of the rights and freedoms we have rather than Americans leaving because of issues in our country or better rights in another. We as Americans feel pride in our country because all the rights we have. Other nations look at our pride and see it as a bad thing. We are frowned upon because our passion and pride comes of as conceited and narcissistic. Our pride for our country is often mistaken as superiority but not one country is superior to another because we are constantly helping each other out.
Jasmine Cho
ReplyDeleteP.2
America's nationalism is what keeps the nation united. The belief that our culture is superior to others should not be hated by other nations because it is merely an opinion. I agree with the statement that our culture is greater than other nation's cultures because even though our land is so vast, our culture unites us and lets people on the West coast feel the same emotions that the people on the East coast feels. Artists like Michael Jackson succeeded in uniting the world. The culture of intellect and religion once brought America together. America has the power to unite its nation with culture unlike most nations who don't even know their neighbors. America is definitely superior to others in its united culture.
Alyssa Perez
ReplyDeletePeriod: 3
Is it wrong for Americans to feel as though they are the best when they are given the right to do so everyday. There should not be a problem with a nation wanting to show how great they feel they are because every nation always feels they are better than the next in some shape or form. And Americans wanting to show that they are superior is only human nature, though we may not have fixed everything that is wrong in the world we are still pushing forward and striving to one up the next. I believe we are superior because of the great standards we were founded on and eventually we are only going to grow to better ourselves. Our superior way of thinking is what keeps our country united as a whole.
Raymond Kum
ReplyDeletePer. 2
Every nation has a right to excerise Nationalism. Yes The United States is a world power and has the power to excerise to keep the world safe..but what about the other nations such as North Korea, Japan or even Soviet Union. As Rieff states: "Every nation, not just the United States, considers itself exceptional to some extent." Its this great Nationalism that keeps us united as one.
Nationalism is strong in the U.S., and we feel like we are superior to other nations. Despite that other nations feel the same way about their own country, America is disliked by foreign nations due to our sense of pride. Our nationalism is what keeps our multicultural society together and united, and there is nothing wrong with feling superior, especially if other nations feel the same way. We cant feel guilt for having our sense of pride, especially if the U.S. tends to help foreign, unapproving countries when they are in need.
ReplyDeleteHarry Kim
ReplyDeletePeriod 3
There is no way any other nation can blame a America for having pride in there way of life and living in general. It is true that every nation has the right to practice their own form or way of nationalism and take pride in their nation. However, it is completely true that America tends to have an almost sociopathic way of looking at their nation's positive implications. In short, they think they are perfect, without understanding the consequences of seeing the negatives. This is the impression that America gives to all the other nations, that they are cocky. On the other hand it is completely reasonable that they are cocky because of their high standards of living and accomplishments.
Austin Barraza Period 2
ReplyDeleteWhile it is crucial that America must understand the reasons why it is not well liked throughout the world, it cannot focus on a national agenda set to cater to foreign opinion. To do that would be a betrayal of our American spirit. Part of our success as a nation can be attributed to being outside foreign influence. Yet in such a inter-connected world, it is ignorant to think that America is 100% correct on every issue. While we should take into account foreign attitude in shaping international policy, we must never be afraid in creating a path of our own.
Amanda Woodhouse Period 3
ReplyDeleteAs Americans we have a lot of pride within ourselves. We do as we wish and do not truly care if we are being judged by other nations. What we do within the United States is our business. We as Americans have the right to run our own government. A government that you will not find anywhere else in the world. If we want to invade Iraq because we were attacked first then we will. Just because European countries feel we are threatening world peace doesn't mean that all of a sudden we are going to pull all our troops out.
America is exceptional, this is true in every way are able to look at it. Being self-reliant with a sense of will power and knowing all things are possible here in America. This is a proud nation which us Americans acknowledge as a great country. Though others may not agree with what we had done before in the past and how our government right now is handling the current issues, we still show our support and voice out opinions freely. As America continues to face the challenges out in the world, we are confident to find a solution for every problem with the help of other countries we call our allies. Even though America can do this alone, it is more safe and beneficial to have back up.
ReplyDeleteKatrina Mae C. Jimenez
Period 3
Hilary Bistline
ReplyDeletePeriod 3
As Americans we view our country to be the best because we have a unique, and culturaly diverse political system and a democratic government. As Americans we find that we have a superior nation with all our technology, sciences, diversity, freedoms, rights, and patriotism, but other countries believe that their country is the best compared to ours. I believe that everyboy thinks their country is the best because they live there and have pride from where they came from and what they have, Americans have it here, British have it in Europe, and French have it in France. The answer of which country is superior, will cange which every person you ask in a counry, they will always say their country is the best.
Abtin Givehchin
ReplyDeletePeriod 2
In some ways it might be okay for Americans to think their nation is exceptional. Many Americans feel this way because of all the opportunities and freedom America has to offer, while in other countries not so much. America might be "exceptional" but America is not superior to other nations. The opinions of Americans allows them to think their nation is superior to others, which in fact is not true because its an opinion. America must set aside it's pride and learn to see other nations as it's equal. Other nations depend on America as well as America should depend on other nations. The help of other nations is the only way America will remain integrated with the rest of the world and also strong.
This idea that America is a superior country is only generalized by people that have not experienced any other form of government or culture. I mean, there is nothing wrong with practicing nationalism, but to boast about it and to be ignorant to other points of view is simply being closed-minded. The United States is different in some ways, but so is every other country. No other country has had a melting pot that matches America's scale, which can make it exceptional in that sense. Back in the day, America USED to be the only democratic country, but that does not make it exceptional anymore as it is no longer the only one. To say this nation is superior, would simply not make sense. America is not even completely independent. Without China, the nation would have already collapsed. So many of the illegal immigrants considerably affect the economy as well. This country is also trillions of dollars in debt while countries in northern Europe and the Middle East are making more money than they spend. Others also think we are disgusting for eating factory processed food like McDonald's. One out of two marriages fail here, while arranged marriages in other countries are even more successful. So, the idea of superiority is simply a generalization out of pride in every nation. There really is no superior nation as every one has its good notes and defects.
ReplyDeleteAngelica Loera, Period 3 ^^
ReplyDeleteI, Joshua Fonbuena,
ReplyDeleteAmerica's individuality and isolation and self sustenance will prove to slowly weaken America. If it does not broaden out and cooperate with other nations it will lose its "superiority" over the world. Since most problems are now multilateral, America will prove to be less effective worldwide.
The reason that American thinks that it's so superior is because of the things it has had to overcome in the past two centuries. Nations kept looking at the change - a set of colonies to a grand 50 states, and it's had many great changes over the past, and has usually relied on itself to get things done. Now, America has overcome it's biggest issues and doesn't really have anything to impress others countries with. One of the reasons it has become unpopular is that before, countries could look at America from afar and be impressed, but now they look at it's declining economy and the trouble it makes for itself and other countries by trying to "help them" and must think.. " oh, that's pathetic". America was moving up in the world, and although it is indeed indispensable, it is also more faulty. In some points, America is like the hot-headed bully that just thinks he/she can get whatever it wants, and the rest of the countries can't really oppose. The U.S is just not a team players.
ReplyDeleteAmerica is superior to other countries in a lot of ways, but it may have just as many faults as it has merits.
Katie Russo, period 2
ReplyDeleteI think that it's ignorant and single-minded for America to say that they are superior to other countries. Each country has its own unique characteristics that set it apart from others, and every country contributes something to the world. I do not believe that one country is more superior than another. One country may be the wealthiest while another may be the most democratic and another may be the most economical. There is no way to judge what makes one country more superior than another. I think that a large reason why America is not liked by other countries is because of America's "superior" attitudes. In many instances through out America's history, America has taken on this Big Brother persona. We've put ourselves into other countries wars and conflicts, for example Afghanistan, because we felt that we could fix their problems. I think that this Big Brother attitude has led to the negative sentiments towards America.
Katie Reber
ReplyDeletePer. 3
First of I'd like to ask, how accurate are the numbers that that the polls are showing and who did they poll? Throwing out percentages like that can be shocking but the article never informs what the questions was that was asked or how the poll was conducted. After last week I have become more skeptical about the veracity of the polls that are given out.
There are good and bad points about being a unilateralist government. National pride makes the US a strong nation, but being too proud can also make enemies. Just like most things in life the US must find a balance between unilateralism and multilateralism.
Allison Martinez
ReplyDeletePeriod 3
America may seem to be an exceptional nation due to its innovative way of government and its conglomeration of different ethnicities, however this does not necessarily put us on a pedestal overseeing all other nations; we are not omniscient. I, as do many Americans, take pride in being an American citizen and feel fortunate to be living in a country with many opportunities and freedoms. Our collective pride makes us a strong nation. However, not all countries feel as though the "American way" is the simply the best. Our interfering in other nations can actually cause more problems; the United States commonly takes control of problems in different nations and sometimes, as good as the US's intentions are, the dilemma only increases. Our need to take personal responsibility for other nations problems makes us seem arrogant, thereby making this country increasingly disliked by a number of nations globally. Simply put, the US is not the superpower of the world. As Americans, we love our country and support its system of government and its policies and liberties; we take pride in being citizens. However, people globally have their own thoughts on governments and nations. Ultimately, I don't know if there truly is a one and only "exceptional" nation.
I believe that we as a country should believe that we are one of the greatest countries. After all, we do have one of the most reliable governments that protects our rights. Unilateralism is what makes a country a country. Our holidays, our patriotism, and what we stand for and believe in is what defines us as America. Of course in some issues we must have a multilateralistic point of view because we have to respect the jurisdiction and rights of another country. We must be patrotic though and unilateralistic because without a country's people being confident in its abilities that country has lost its infrastructure as a nation. We must be confident but we also have to know the line between confidence and pride.
ReplyDeleteThe other nations shouldn't care what America does because We are not attached to these other nations. Since the tragic events that occurred on 9/11, We the people the U.S believed it our right to declare the war on Iraq because of their attacks against our nation. Another fact that other countries abhor our nation is because of our individualism, even though some countries are individualists as well. Lastly, our people don’t always depend on our nation like other countries, our country shows off our true integrity and self-worth. We the people of the U.S have our rights based on the constitution. To the other nations we might be considered a variety of things which shows jealousy and cowardliness, something that We don’t express. all we express is our great nation which makes us stand out the best in this world. We believe that we make exceptional decisions such as the war against Iraq. We don’t stand for terrorism and destruction of one’s land, so We started a war for peace and pride.
ReplyDeleteSILLAS CHO - P3
ReplyDeleteI believe that Americans should not be called names for believing in what we believe in. We have the right to believe and know that our nation is better than any other nation because our exceptionalism allows our country to move forward. We may believe that our nation is superior. Which is why our nation grows and becomes stronger, through the support of the Americans. Although other nations think that we are egotistical, it is only because we have satisfaction and pride in our nation. Our nation may not be perfect, but we are trying to improve our problems one step at a time.
Adam Block per. 3
ReplyDeleteReiff notices that, "while people in most of the world look to government to solve their problems, Americans do not." and "their belief in the power of the will, their suspicion of government, their conviction in their own benevolence." This distust of government programs by the people and set up by the Framers makes it hard for our nation to set up national programs such as Health Care, but yet America still can compete with, and work with, more self-trusting countries.
Jonathan Buenaventura P2
ReplyDeleteAmerica has the right to call itself exceptional. The U.S. has been bashed on for its ignorance by other nations such as Europe and Asia, but that is because Americans are just proud of what we have become. We are a country that has survived by our constitution, which other countries have tried to mimic and failed. I believe that does make us exceptional.
Allen Miller, p 3
ReplyDeleteI can see why americans would call America exceptional. America was the first modern country to adopt a democracy as its form of government and last to today. It's resources have been decisive in winning world war 2. Today, it has the strongest military of any country. But we are also trillions of dollars in debt. America should be more willing to listen to what other countries think and have them help more often, as we can no longer afford an expensive military with our growing more fragile economy.
Rodel Melaya
ReplyDeletePeriod 3
A major theme I noticed in the article was that while America takes matter into their own hands, others rely on their government. As a result, there's more to America's exceptionalism. I respect how American's believe in individual responsibility and blame themselves for failure. However, this does not mean they are superior. I see exceptionalism as a state of mind and a national resource in which confidence and the optimistic mindset progresses the nation. As a result, America should focus on the unilateral problems because finding solutions would be more efficient. Attempting to solve multilateral problems implies that America's ego is enormous and results in criticism and maybe even conflict.
**sorry i turned it in late, i didn't know you put it on your blog.
There are countless reasons why an American should be proud to live in the US, as there are for a Frenchman to live in France. What the reasons are, are specifically unique to these nations. Why we should continue to play the game of "Mine Is Better Than Yours" is a complete mystery to me. The reason I believe America has yet to collaborate, consistently, with the rest of the world on problems such as starvation, AIDS, or global warming (for those that believe Earth is melting :p) is because "we" don't want to hold the image of "the nation that finally gave in". I would definitely agree that America's ego almost always gets in the way of solving problems that are in need of the world's attention and I do believe the US should abandon its unilateral approach on issues and takes arms with other nations to solve their multilateral issues which they have in common, as a "united nation". This message was brought to you by and approved by STEVE CARREON of PER. 3.
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