The Misconception of Universal American Enthusiasm
I've noticed a recurring theme in conversations and media where there's an assumption that everyone around the world aspires to be American or embraces American culture wholeheartedly. While I appreciate the contributions of the U.S. in various fields, this presumption comes off as a bit arrogant.
From the other end of this stick as an American immigrant in England, whenever people tell me they dream of moving to America I'm at a loss for how to respond politely.
I remember quite a few years ago I heard an actor giving a speech about winning an award and he said something along the lines of "I'm so glad to be in this country with its freedoms". I thought, what specific freedom are you thinking about ...? I think other countries would surprise you.
I really try to avoid this because I know it’s easy for me to slip in to. Recently I thought I read enough context from the post. Still totally wrong, so it’s a work in progress. But I’m trying!