Cousin's Perspective: No Longer American

  • Thread starter Thread starter Ivan Seeking
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the cultural and political disconnect experienced by an American cousin living in France for two decades. He has lost touch with American diversity and nuances, leading to misunderstandings about political views, particularly regarding the Iraq War and freedom of speech. Participants express concern over how American actions, such as the Qur'an burning, shape global perceptions and highlight the need for better communication about the complexities of American culture. The conversation underscores the challenges of bridging cultural gaps and the impact of media narratives on international relations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of American political history, particularly post-9/11 events.
  • Familiarity with cultural differences between the US and European countries.
  • Knowledge of media influence on public perception and political discourse.
  • Awareness of the implications of freedom of speech in different cultural contexts.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the impact of media narratives on international perceptions of the US.
  • Explore the complexities of American political culture and its diversity.
  • Investigate the historical context of US-French relations, especially during World War II.
  • Analyze case studies of cultural misunderstandings between Americans and Europeans.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for cultural anthropologists, political scientists, expatriates, and anyone interested in understanding the nuances of American identity and its perception abroad.

  • #61
Ivan Seeking said:
My dad once told me how, as kids, his side of the block was always at war the kids on the other side of the block. Why? Because THEY were on the other side of the block.

Personal bias seems to be common to borders. Here in this part of Oregon, there is a long-standing Oregon vs California thing going.

In Eastern Washington, we like to think we're better than those redneck Idahoans to the east. We also like to think that we're better than those snobby rain-loving snow-fearing Starbucks-loving wimpy Seattelites to the West. It works out somehow.

Is that the sort of thing you meant?
 
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  • #62
Mathnomalous said:
*We are also tired of paying $800/mo for a crap apartment*

LOL. Good luck solving that problem by moving to France. Ever been outside the States?

Typical American.
 
  • #63
Char. Limit said:
In Eastern Washington, we like to think we're better than those redneck Idahoans to the east. We also like to think that we're better than those snobby rain-loving snow-fearing Starbucks-loving wimpy Seattelites to the West. It works out somehow.

Is that the sort of thing you meant?
I'm beginning to think that there's something wrong with the people in the other cubicals at work. :rolleyes:

LOL on the signature, Char. Now everyone will think that I'm a politician. :smile:
 

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