"Possibly the Pox Pop Culture was merely a bubble. The real State of things, merely interrupted by some passing good times, is a world whose animating belief is not Americanism but anti-Americanism, an instinctive dread of the giant."
The main question posed in the Wolff article in the October Vanity Fair; now that the old international view of American as a nation that represented "cool capitalism" to the rest of the world is replaced with the less glamorous and lovable "Bush Country" how does that affect us? Do other nations perceive we make a better foe than friend?
Recent polls conducted in the U.K. with regards to U.S./U.K. relations suggest 75% of the population "flatly reject the message, accomplishments, goodwill, and current reason for being of the U.S. in the world." As President Bush referred to Prime Minister Tony Blair at the last G-8 conference, "Yo, Blair," The Spectator's Rob Libble pointed out, "this is how the leader of the free world addresses those who do his bidding."
The irony behind decades of protest over the spread of American pop culture in such countries as France; is that Bush and his cronies are set on dismantling specific segments of American pop culture, (Hollywood, for instance) because of perceived liberalism. In fact, the concept of "cool capitalism" becomes further ironic when the current biggest anti-war hero of the moment is wealthy businessman, Ned Lamont, the man who made national headlines for defeating Democratic war supporter, Connecticut Senator, Joe Lieberman, in that state's primary election.
What is further mind boggling, for those citizens who care enough to be boggled, is the fact that Bush's foreign policy is both a disaster and a success. As Condi Rice jets across the planet taking meetings and playing Chopin on the piano, Americans are now perceived by both enemies and allies alike as the "New Germany circa 1930's" thus we are treated with a cautious contempt by both. The price paid by both Bush supporters and critics in this country without discrimination; are diminished world prestige and shrinking national economic growth. The upside to Bush's world view, is that the messages is simple with little room to debate or negotiate. Lest we think we are misunderstood, the nations of the world hear what this administration says loud and clear.
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Comments: 29
Our country at one time was revered as great because of the deeds that we've done throughout the world. We still do those great deeds in some respects today. The difference is that the way that we are portrayed through marketing and buisness P.R., in the eyes of the world, as a bunch of selfish glutones who care more about our own personal well being than the state of the world as a whole, which in my opinion, isn't that far off base.
The fact of the matter is that we are a country that is more interested in our own personal puruits to give a crap about the world at large ( for the most part). We are so indoctrinated with the idea of getting our piece of the pie ( because of the marketing techniques that are used in order boost the bottom line of the buisness model that cares more about it's own entity than the well being of human society as a whole ) that we neglect the bigger picture of trying to leave the world better than when we recieved it, which, as the worlds only "superpower", leaves us as American citizens with a great responsiblility if we are to have any lasting respect in this world. I firmly believe that while I'm alive on this earth, in this short sliver of time, I want to do my all to try to pursue and accomplish the idea of nourishing the human spirit, which in it's best form, consists of a decency that understands and respects the rights of all of us human beings alive today.
What bothers me the most is that some Americans tend to place the negative world view that has been thrusted on us soley on the fact that Bush is a piece of crap. Although I think in a lot of respects this is true, I fear that we are missing the bigger point which is that we need to ween ourselves off of this self endulgant lifestyle.
To my knowledge, we don't have a say as to where and when and what situations we are born into. I can only say that as an American, I am greatfull for being born here and now it's time for us to, as a people, to man/woman up to the responsibility we have to do what we can, as a free nation, to ensure that a legitimate ideology that promotes the well being of all humanity is implemented for the sake of our world future, not for the sake of buisnesses.
For myself, I just want someone who has more political sway than little ol' me, to be smart enough and say, "Whoa Nelly" when it comes to horrible American foreign policy. In many, many ways it really does suck to be absolutely right about Iraq. Everything I said before we starting fighting has panned out and guess what? I'm not a psychic.
I agree that our foreign policy has been a wreck for decades. I think that often we (as in our agents) act against broader American interests when acting on the behalf of a particular, usually Republican, administration. I think we sell our true strengths too cheaply and are blind to weaknesses.
On a personal note Nathan, I do not know if you have joined the Vanity Fair, the magazine group. If you haven't please consider doing so. The group is about discussing articles that are in Vanity Fair or writing pieces inspired by articles in Vanity Fair.
You are even convinced that we have from Bush "shrinking national economic growth". What a mischaracterization of the truth. It was Bush who pulled us out of recession inspite of some of the most severe economic events possible; the tech bubble which burst in 2000, 9/11, Enron, et al. Today, our economy is strong by any measure and most certainly doing measurably better than that of other industrialized countries. Since the 2003 Bush tax cuts, our economy has grown more than 20%, a growth equal to the entire Chinese economy. In addition, the federal tax revenues have grown about 15% per year since then as well, something most people cannot understand and are unable to attribute to tax cuts. Those who read the Austrian economists Hayek and Von Mises understand totally.
Are these (low unemployment, low interest rates, etc) signs of "shrinking economic growth"? I fear that you have been reading the mainstream media who have been trying their best to convince everyone of that lie.
Best regards, Ben
Author "Leading People to be Highly Motivated and Committed"
dollars.in.debt.and.have.a.warmongoring,wannabe.autocrat.in.office!!!
He.must.be.watching.fox.news.whom.are.'shocked.and.awed'.at.the.world's
negative.reaction.to.our.corrupt.polititions.and.the.dumbfucks.who.voted.them
into.office.....please.excuse.my.language.as.I'm.in.a.foul.mood.and.this.is.a.
touchy.subject.as.we're.in.a.senseless.war.and.a.good.friend.of.ours.just
got.his.face.blown.off.in.Iraq...Everyone.now.knows.Bush.knew.prior.to.
engaging.in.war.that.he.KNEW.Sadam.had.nothing.to.do.with.the.taliban
and.was.infact.fighting.them....The.sadists/terrorists.were.Saudi.nationalists
but.we.dare.not.brawl.with.them...cause.a.buck's.a.buck!....Support.our.troops,
impeach.Bush!...As.to.our.pop.culture,it.is.less.popular.than.it.once.was.because
its.getting.more.political.and.less.entertaining...The.democrats.are.slacking.and
seemingly.ambivolant.and.the.Republicans.are.spreading.terrorism.nation-
wide....soon,I'm.going.to.boycott.dumbfuckistan.and.move.to.Spain.when.I
can.afford.it!
Thanks Ben, for clarifying that article. I have noticed that no matter who is in the White House, the media makes a great big to do about it. I don't even have to bring up Clinton, but look at Jimmy Carter. His brother made a laughing stock out of him. Before he became President, he was Governor of Georgia. He did a great job as governor. But no one remembered that when they began the vocal attacks on him. Did he deserve all that criticism? Possibly. I do know that the late Billy, his brother was completely out of hand. However, his late sister was an evangelist and his mother joined the Peace Corps in her 70's! Carter has made a huge mark in this world with his Habitat For Humanity project.
I have come to the conclusion that regardless of who is in the White House, America is going to have a blast bashing them. Such a shame too, as the person representing our Country deserves respect whether we like them or not.
Lisa pointed out in her article that Condi Rice was (her quote): As Condi Rice jets across the planet taking meetings and playing Chopin on the piano, Americans are now perceived by both enemies and allies alike as the "New Germany circa 1930's" thus we are treated with a cautious contempt by both". I did not then, nor do I now, believe that Ms. Rice should have been America's mediator, ambassador, whatever. Why? Simple deduction. She is a woman. The countries she visited place women on a scale lower than cattle. I was amazed that no one seem to think of that. I, personally, think she is a brilliant and talented woman, but I was aghast that they would send a female to places that would be polite to her face and instantly dismiss her and her message from their minds.
I think Nathan was correct when he talked about all of us being responsible for the way the world feels about us. Sure the media is responsible for much of this, but we, ourselves just add fuel to the flame with our asinine remarks and name calling. That is telling the media to keep up the good work.
But these times, like no other, present so many opportunities for creating good will around the world. With globalism, technology and multiculturalism at an unprecedented level, a country as great as the United States should be increasing and improving their foreign relations, yet just the opposite has happened under the current administration.
It's really time to get off the "mainstream media" bandwagon and come up with a new argument. Or hasn't that Talking Point been delivered to FOX news yet?
You make an economic point using Chinese economic growth as an example. I must point out that their economic growth might be retarded because they are focused on buying American debt. Does this not concern you? Do you not feel that much of our so-called recent growth (which, at best is debatable) is like a New Year's Eve party welcoming in 1929? Everything (champagne, balloons, tuxes, and sparkly dresses) has been purchased on credit. At some point the Chinese will want a return on their investment, which might entail all of states of America becoming red. I am sure that some of us may want to fight the onslaught of such a situation, but if we continue as we are, by then all of our troops and their equipment will be bled out and abandoned on foreign soil.
Ben, you proclaim mainstream media has a stake in telling us lies. What do you read/watch/listen to that makes you feel you are such a sage? Ask yourself if your sources have an invested interest in presenting a particular point of view.
Amanda, I am so sorry to hear about your friend. I do hope at some point you will write about him. If he was a friend of yours, I am sure he was one cool dude and his death is a loss to his family and friends but also our nation.
I fell your pain about the ineffectual way the Democrats have handled themselves for the last few years. Let's hope and PRAY that the November election changes the face of Congress. Obi-Wan, they are our only hope.
June, WTF? Amanda reports that a friend of hers has been killed in Iraq and you harp about her Spanish comment? I say in a word dipped in sarcasm, nice.
You claim to be concerned about how the media portrays politicians as if are child stars whose sit-coms have been canceled. Politicians with thin skins need to find themselves other professions. Granted, making fun of close family connections can go over the line, yet quite frankly, the mass media has never done that with Bush. One had to read the transcripts of George's brother's divorce proceedings to know that Neil Bush flew to Thailand for more than just business. This potentially family value discrediting issue did not receive the sort of coverage that would make it common knowledge, nor should it have. Yet, I bet you didn't know it.
I question the wisdom of people who criticize the mass media for doing their jobs. The first Amendment was written in order for the citizens of this country to write and discuss issues of a political nature without penalty. I personally feel that the very least Bush could do at any international conference is represent our country with dignity and act as if his mother didn't raise him in monkey cage at a city zoo. Tony Blair is Prime Minister of Great Britain for heaven sakes; he isn't some Ozark fishing buddy. "Yo, Bush, catch a clue."
I do not think Ms. Rice's lack of respect has anything to do with her being a woman, and has everything to do with the message she is trying to sell. If this administration was a tad more popular in world affairs, I daresay that Ms. Rice's popularity would be through the roof. By your logic women will always hit glass ceilings. Carrying your logic one logical step forward (or backward) one might take issue with her having dark skin as opposed to white since racism still exists in the world. Although I have made it clear that I am no fan of Bush, I will give him a few deserved snaps for appreciating and promoting people of diversity.
Cheryl, I agree a zillion-zillion percent. The reason the Geneva Convention rules have been so well regarded is because WE do not want OUR soldiers and private citizens tortured on foreign soil.
Diana, I can't add to your statement – it's perfect.
You want to know what the Soviet Union did with terrorist/bombers in Afghanistan in the 70's? They would go to the town that the bomber came from, kill everyone, men, women and children, then cut up the bodies and put them in sacks then take them on tour to all the other towns... (I don't suggest this, but mearly use it as a comparison to how we provide religiously acceptable food, personal scriptures and GOOD treatment to the Vacationers in Club Gitmo.) You see, we are a much kinder more humane country, but back then (funny thing) when the Soviet Union was around most of you Liberals of the day said we should be more like them, we need to be more socialist, and communism isn't evil ....
You were wrong then, you are wrong now.
First let me share with you my heartfelt prayer for your friend and for his family. And ask was he shot and is going to survive or has he given the greatest sacrifice, either way he is a HERO and I honor him. My cousin was killed earlier this year, as was his older brother back in Vietnam (a war started by JFK) Dana Stone was a reporter and when he and Sean Flynn were captures by the Vietnamese Communists and given to Pol-Pots people in Cambodia they executed. My father served two tours in Vietnam, and though he survived it forever changed our lives, because he was made even surer of the need to strive and sacrifice and fight to defend freedom from tyranny everywhere.
In the early 80's I went with my parents to Thailand where they worked for IRC and as a dr. he provided care for 100's of thousands as he ended up heading the UN's CCSDPT over seeing all the refugee camps Hospitals in Thailand. He also received proof from refugee's in samples and wounds and even bodies of the chemical weapons being given or sold by the USSR to the Lao Communists and sprayed and shelled on the people in villages that didn't want to submit to communist rule. These myco-toxins were being used to kill men women and children, wipe out whole villages. This was still happening in the early 80's, I saw the people, the children and even the bodies, I know what war is and the evil attending it. I also know and have seen the true valor of people fighting for there right to not only to be free but to simply exist. The killing fields are full because of the types of people like Saddam, and the Taliban and the Iranian president and Hitters all through the world. And you want to blame the president (because your friend who volunteered for Military service) for your friends injury, you shame your friend's sacrifice just as Sheehan shames the death of her son, he son not only joined on his own, he also volunteered to go to Iraq twice because he believed in the mission.
And running to Spain, well it is running, being foolish, and your not willing to stand up and fight for what you believe is right? Let alone defend all the children who lost parents in NY and even you won't stay here to support your friend or his family mainly because your not willing to get your head out of your emotional ass you have it stuck in… My cousin who died in Vietnam, died from a war started by your liberal friend and icon, JFK… do I hate him, no he was a president doing the best he could considering… but you like to assume that because a president does something you don't agree with that he is evil… I don't think JFK was evil, even if he was a Democrat.( Clinton was closer to Evil, esp. when he was committing troops at the very moment he was having an intern submit her mouth… can he actually argue he was focused on the needs of the world or troops when that was happening to him ?)
G-d Bless your friend and our Hero.
And G-D help the rest of us defend the world with people like you supposedly on our side.
G-d Bless Freedom, and those willing to fight and die to preserve it for everyone including those who hate that they are fighting to keep the Liberals free to be Liberals, just like you.
In reference to you second comment, I am always amazed that political discussions (especially for those who considered themselves patriotic) in this country are like sporting events that involve two teams. I, for one, am amazed that Vietnam would be seen as belonging to either Democrats or Republicans since it seemed to be supported by both "sides". And yes, I do take into account that Bush, Clinton, nor Chaney managed to find the time to serve.
Obviously, you come from a family that has served this country, although it does not sound as if you are currently doing so. I find it to be hubris on your part to make Iraq sound as if it was something that was unavoidable. Granted, Saddam was evil, but guess what? At that particular moment in history, we had bigger fish to fry. (It seems Bin Laden is still on the lose, but then again, like a rabbit pulled out of a hat, Bush might just yet produce him before midterm elections.) Besides, if Saddam was such a thorn why didn't Bush Senior order the troops into Baghdad?
You dare call Clinton evil?!?! Time to put down the crack pipe. Lord, at least Clinton actually read memos, unlike comprehension challenged Bush. Maybe 9/11 could have been avoided if he wasn't so set on taking, yet, another prolonged vacation in Crawford. Further, I don't understand the fascination with a blowjob in the Oval Office. I dare say, that Clinton wasn't the first president to have one there, nor will he be the last. Yes, he did have sexual relations with that woman, but he didn't start a war to soothe his ego.
Lastly, I wonder why you are being so hard on Amanda since normally "conservatives" seem to be thrilled when "liberal" threaten to move elsewhere. It makes me curious if you fear, as well as you should, that the best of America may be lost when good people like her decide to pack and go elsewhere.
Amanda, I'm glad your friend is alive. I hope that something can be done to make his life semi-whole and normal again.
Sandy, well at least with the tax breaks they get to enjoy second homes.
It is unfortunate that debate between two opposite ideologies must resort to name calling and thuggish posturing. Reread your comments, and perhaps you'll relate to what Pogo once famously said: "We have discovered the enemy, and he is us" The terrorists today may be the same children who survived Desert Storm. The children who survive the current madness (the terror that has been raining on their homeland) may become tomorrow's terrorists. Terror begets terror. God bless all who suffer at the hands of ignorance and hatred. God bless those who think Liberal is a negative label.
Lisa: It was reported earlier today by the French that Bin Laden may have died recently. Interesting, n'est ce pas?
Being the radical type I am, I was packed and ready to leave in 2000 and only changed my mind when I realized I had to be able to look my grandchildren in the eye one day and say, in all honesty, that I fought with every last bit of energy I had to save their country. My first campaign (Becky can vouch for this) was for as many of us as possible to either leave the country or co-op, and contribute as little as we could so that those who got us in this mess could pay for this mess. I knew they wouldn't wake up until they were PERSONALLY hungry, because me and mine is all they care about. Hate to be right, but I believe we see that I was - they are getting hungry now, losing jobs, paying too much for gas, not feeling so damned smug and snug, and they are waking up. I wish it had happened at least two years sooner.
"Lisa, one could almost substitute the name Reagan for Bush in your article and believe it was written in the late '80s."
I don't know who devised this particular party line. The late eighties were like yesterday to me, and I'm pretty darn sure that there was no similarity between the way the world viewed Reagan then and the way it views G.W. Bush now. To even say this suggests, to me, a degree of desperation.
Your idea for the Vanity Fair Group was a great one, Lisa and this is a good article to start with. I have a feeling this will be a very interesting site.
I hope this group turns out good. As you can tell, I submitted two articles on two widely different topics in hopes of setting a good example. People can either copy it or go in their own direction. I just want articles submitted to this group to have some basis in some article in Vanity Fair. I don't want this group to be "All About Lisa" in the submissions. I'm from the Midwest, and here in the Heartland such vanity is held with scorn. Further, I would love to have this group more about the threads than the postings themselves.
In reference to the second part of your statement: no, I would not recommend a sit down come to the table meeting. Yet, it isn't as if we haven't negotiated with terrorists before and I am referring to the Iran-Contra negotiations of twenty years ago during the Reagan-Bush era. Every since the break up of the former Soviet bloc (in which the U.S. and other western nations failed to secure strategic sites and weapons) rogue organizations not attached to nations have grown. I do think it is prudent to at least know and try to understand what they want, if for no other reason than to address these issues and curve requirement to their causes.
When the U.S. invaded Iraq over false premises, we basically shot ourselves in the foot. We gave these rogue groups concrete cause to hate us versus before where they just hated us for being us. Some may have danced in the streets over 9/11, yet, I would surmise that before the music waned many were asking, what does this mean. It was an empty victory - if one could even apply the word victory. World wide everyone of Middle Eastern descent became suspect of being a terrorist and the Islamic faith was shown in a negative light that continues to darken it no matter how political correct people try to be. Granted, that stereotype existed before, but now that stereotype had panned out to reality. What was gained was that it showed American, the world's only hyper-superpower, could be attacked on its home soil by others, besides crazy white separatists.
By invading Iraq the US did many stupid things that even I can name, yet I am far from an expert, but sadly seem more informed than the average American. 1) Saddam was no favorite of most of these rogue organizations. He did not allow them to take root in Iraq because they jeopardized his power. He may have given token prize money to select terrorist causes, but he spent far less than many individuals in Saudi Arabia (the home of many of the 9/11 terrorists) and Pakistan (a nation chucked full of schools and camps were zealots determined to become terrorists learn their trade).
Saddam was an evil man no doubt, but the opportunity not to take him out during the Gulf War was made for whatever reason. Since that time, prior to the invasion, he had been under sanctions. Granted, like all such acts, these sanctions were not perfect, yet, it would be the proverbial camel through the eye of the needle if he actually amassed everything needed for a weapon of mass destruction. He was a little man contained.
2) Invading Iraq is the sort of Imperialistic/nation building activity that began all of the modern disarray in the Middle East that started primarily in the nineteenth century. It never ceases to amaze me why so many administrations, and particularly this one, cannot be bothered to pick up a history book and apply some sociology to it. For heaven sakes, why didn't we just set fire to the oil fields ourselves! It would have saved a lot of Iraqi and American lives and bloodshed (notice I say Iraqi first because an estimated 44,000 have died versus close to 3,000 American troops, not counting coalition forces, 20,000 Americans have been wounded as of September 16th). Further, it would have saved a lot of American taxpayer money (by money, I really mean debt) and effort which could have been directed at further protecting our ports of entry and finding rogue terrorists, such as that man you may have read about…what was his name…oh yeah, Bin Laden.
3) The US invaded without enough troops to secure the country. First, we dismantle the existing infrastructure and scatter the pieces, which since the time of Alexander has been seen as military folly. Rumsfeld may have laughed when museums were raided and objects of antiquity were carried off by the mob, but like the true Machiavellian scholar who has read only the crib notes on "The Prince" he didn't see how such a display, among other charming displays of this administration, appear to a larger world wide audience. Heavens to Betsy, the U.S. can't even secure the symbolic treasure troves!
Oh, and don't even get me started on the whole prison scandal. Did our leaders learn everything it needed to know about diplomacy by watching "National Lampoon's Animal House" too many times?
Since that time we have further shown an inability to secure the nation as a whole - as demonstrated by the feng shui inspired green zones and such. Almost all members of our trained Iraqi security forces have to serve in secret lest their families are assaulted by thugs. The crux of course, to truly do the job this administration would have to enact the draft (thus turning many a flag waving or plain apathetic youth into a resurrected 60's draft dodger). They may very soon be forced to do this, but not until after the November elections. For now, they exploit the same soldiers extending their tours of duty.
As far as our soldiers fighting over there for such an esoteric reason as protecting our freedom, in particular our freedom of speech, I believe this is the most misguided assumption of all. The ACLU protects our freedom of speech, many people on this site who are labeled "bullies" protect our freedom of speech, and okay, soldiers who blog and tell us what is really happening over there protect our freedom of speech, but that is not the reason they are there and you damn well know it. Future generations are going to pay the price of going to Iraq. To be so glib and flag waving about it, bothers me because it's like the citizens of the old south thinking they can lick the Yankees because they have deluded themselves into believing they are God's chosen. It is time for the majority of our populace to sober up, smarten up, work out, and conserve…because like it or not, we are in it for the long haul.
This whole thing boils down to Americans and their living standards.
How, in this country, can we justify TWO people living in a 5,000 sq. ft. house, ALONE.....when MILLIONS in this world, IN OUR OWN COUNTRY, are living under the harsh sky, rain, snow, the elements, without food, shelter, or clothing appropriate for decent living??????
Americans are SO spoiled!
I've seen it here in my own home state.....Arizona...people coming from other states (I won't even mention which one, as it will start another thread, another war, another article)....rich beyond belief, compared to this state.....hiking up the housing market so it is unobtainable to locals, making the standard of living beyond most people's reach...because they want a HUGE piece of the pie...feel ENTITLED to it, even....and can't even IMAGINE what it is like to live otherwise...they've used up all their own resources, in their quest for rich living, then seek out other areas to live, or tap into, since their own is ruined, tapped out.
Rich beyond belief compared to some country's living standards....huge houses, swimming pools, spas, home theaters, pantries, basements, carpeting, golf courses, lawns...
C'mon, people....THINK ABOUT THIS!
The Globe looks at us as the fattest, most spoiled "kids" on the block!
And....WE ARE!!!
The worst thing is that we are oblivious TO MOST OF THE WORLD LIVING IN TENTS!
We are the spoled brats of the world! and the world hates us for it.
How would YOU like to watch your child starve to death in front of your eyes, and then see how FAT America is???!!! AND, Americans don't even CARE!!
I can't look at myself in the mirror when I see a cross laden with flowers at the side of the bridge, here in my own hometown...I know a homeless person died...they found their body under the bridge. Starvation, and the elements, took them. What a miserable way to die, especially, when up on the hill, as you lay dying, there is a 5,000 sq ft home staring down at you...
When we ignore the poverty of our own hometown, let alone our world, we are bound to be hated for our huge homes, our consumption of gas, our attitude of needing "spacious homes"...our "need" for it ALL...
Yes, Lady Lisa, we ARE "in for the long haul"....and we should all be pitching in for a solution, rather than being part of the problem!
Peace to us All....