Not sure what the freedom is that Mr. Cohen talks about? Has he enjoyed the freedom to choose non-gmo food? He hasn't in the US because the food vendor decides to label food that's non-gmo; it's not required by the government. Does he have the freedom to choose alternative medical treatment? Probably not unless he has his own cash for medical treatment rather than insurance. Does he have the freedom to choose a politician to represent his interests rather than a politician who's bought and paid for by megabucks lobbyists and fat-cat donors? Possibly, but the likelihood is small. Mr. Cohen's argument fails for one simple reason: he has failed to define freedom. And the same can probably be said about a lot of the people who answered the survey discussed in the article.
21
Why do so many approach this as an Us vs. Them or an exercise in determining which system is the best? Both systems gave strengths and weaknesses...but America's greatest weakness seems to be our utter arrogance and unwillingness to LEARN from other nations. For those of us who have lived or traveled extensively in Europe, it's clear that America would benefit from a more European approach on certain societal services. Yet, we get defensive, divert the conversation to Europe's ills, etc.Are we that insecure?
48
"Why, he asks, is the United States an “outlier” in greenhouse gas emissions and obesity, and what, if anything, will it do about it?"
This assumes Europe doesn't have its own issues with obesity and pollution. Being slightly less fat and wasteful doesn't negate Europe's own problem with excess.
This assumes Europe doesn't have its own issues with obesity and pollution. Being slightly less fat and wasteful doesn't negate Europe's own problem with excess.
10
No one should really comment on this column unless you have lived in a different country (non US) for an extended period of time. It is a real eye opener and makes you rethink everything that you've been taught and how you have been programmed.
33
"Per capita carbon dioxide emissions in the United States are about twice those of the other wealthy nations of the 34-member Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development."
Gee, this may have something to do with our nation's geography and demographic sparseness
Gee, this may have something to do with our nation's geography and demographic sparseness
9
I spend a lot of time abroad, too, and it never ceases to amaze me how wasteful Americans are with their energy resources. Example: the adult couple next door actually does 2-3 loads of laundry every single day, runs the dishwasher twice a day, leaves all of their lights on day and night, etc. I don't think it has any connection to the way they eat (they seem pretty buff). I just don't think they make any connection between their daily lifestyle and its environmental impact. In fact, the theme of their chorale society next year will be "environmental protection." Lol. I think they must have gotten the idea from Mobil Oil.
26
A wonderful article but perhaps Cohen over-estimates Europe.
Europe, without America's innovative streak and willingness to challenge and question everything, has been in decline for quite a while. As a European myself (who has lived here for 6 years), I have no qualms admitting that Europe has looked to the US, and relied on the US to solve its 2 world wars, the cold war, rebuild Europe post WWII, deal with the new Ukraine issues, look after Cacuses after the implosion of Yugoslavia, deal with the Middle East after France and the UK decided to just leave when it became too hard to clean up their mess, and, recently (and currently) hope that the improvement in the US economy would drag Europe out of recession.
Having lived in Europe most of my life, I see the terrible health care system- and nobody taking responsibility- yes, US health care is extraordinarily expensive but America has given me a great living so if I or my family are sick, there's no other country I want to be in. I have friends who have disabled children and they, in a break from ridiculing the US system, are raising money to send their kids here to be treated. Funny that
And if you think racism is bad here- go to France or Eastern Europe... how about those Turks in Germany?! Muslims in Paris... no minarets in Switzerland... holocaust denial is a crime in France.... (yes, you can be put in jail, not just ridiculed...)
Europe has much going for it- but it's no America. And that's a bad thing.
Europe, without America's innovative streak and willingness to challenge and question everything, has been in decline for quite a while. As a European myself (who has lived here for 6 years), I have no qualms admitting that Europe has looked to the US, and relied on the US to solve its 2 world wars, the cold war, rebuild Europe post WWII, deal with the new Ukraine issues, look after Cacuses after the implosion of Yugoslavia, deal with the Middle East after France and the UK decided to just leave when it became too hard to clean up their mess, and, recently (and currently) hope that the improvement in the US economy would drag Europe out of recession.
Having lived in Europe most of my life, I see the terrible health care system- and nobody taking responsibility- yes, US health care is extraordinarily expensive but America has given me a great living so if I or my family are sick, there's no other country I want to be in. I have friends who have disabled children and they, in a break from ridiculing the US system, are raising money to send their kids here to be treated. Funny that
And if you think racism is bad here- go to France or Eastern Europe... how about those Turks in Germany?! Muslims in Paris... no minarets in Switzerland... holocaust denial is a crime in France.... (yes, you can be put in jail, not just ridiculed...)
Europe has much going for it- but it's no America. And that's a bad thing.
50
And yet, for all our failings, we went over to Europe twice in the last century to rid the European world of a cancer. A good bit of my dad's body stayed there after his P-47 fighter crashed in combat. I suspect we would be there again if another enemy arose. In the south, the expression is "cut us some slack."
27
America is the first nation in history to successfully cast out Imperial hegemony while forging a doctrine and a new way of living. Through the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, the Revolutionists' radical ideas shaped the way the nation operated and has been the model for post- Enlightenment individualistic pursuit. Perhaps no country in the world uses a few documents as the standard of their daily living. Just as the piety refers to religious texts in setting values and way of life, so has the voice of every American dreamer in its obstinacy for individual freedom and pursuits. The dream's pitfall rests in the basic economic principle of scarcity. There will never be sufficient shared resources. Unmitigated innovation does not assure trickle down economics. The heuristic of the person who made it big for her/himself is to be unmindful of the needs of others; unless redistribution involves incentives for the advantaged. This is in contrast to nations in Europe who has had to live through innumerable continental wars, where resilience is built on collectivism rather than individualism. In America, successful innovators and exonerated, viz. Henry Ford, Steve Jobs, Rockefeller. It is the gold standard. In Europe, and much of the world, we respect the ultra successful, but it is not the yardstick we use to measure life. There is a certain joy in community, based not on ephemeral desire and consumption, but based on a sustainable model of sharing.
42
America has collectively jumped the shark. We've done great things only when either been staring down a barrel or been flooded with a profusion of natural resources. Seems only the barrel option may lay before us.
A sense of exceptionalist entitlement has replaced the desperate drive and curiosity that once fueled this country.
Also as big industry continues to profit from our current mode, there will likely be no incentives for politicians to disappoint there corporate masters with progress producing legislation
A sense of exceptionalist entitlement has replaced the desperate drive and curiosity that once fueled this country.
Also as big industry continues to profit from our current mode, there will likely be no incentives for politicians to disappoint there corporate masters with progress producing legislation
3
Oh glorious Europe praise Europe hail Europe. America has no commuter rails or organic food or healthcare and we all drive pickup trucks to our Walmart where we buy processed junk. We are so much more obese than Europe and spend more time on Facebook than Europe and eat more McDonald's than Europe. Oh lord why did anyone ever decide to leave the white utopia that is Europe.
4
Cohen, I think, sets up a false dichotomy: either the state protects us or we have freedom, but not both. It reminds of the national security/civil liberties dichotomy that many republicans are throwing around. Why can't we have both? Their other ways to encourage healthy living and reduced consumption than high taxes and laws that do fundamentally restrict people's ability to live the life they want to live. Also, Europe's collectivism is in manys way false. It is a collectivism drawn on ethnic and national lines. Do you think the Turkish population in Germany feels protected? That the Polish and Romanian populations in Ireland and France feel protected? (I have witnessed the harassment myself) Or that Greece feels protected? Europe is divided. It's collectivism is more localism than anything else. Our excessive individualism might be problematic, but Germany's localism, and everyone else's, is going to tear Europe apart.
4
I think the US will eventually see a backlash from the rest of the world...especially its "allies and partners". The World cant keep giving its resources to the US while we wantonly disregard our excess. The World will resist at some point...likely when their investments on our shores give them the leverage they need.
But to the last points made by the author - I think our excess is not really linked to our creativity and vitality, etc...its the resulting product of what once was. We are not as creative as we once were - except in delivering more entertainment and ways to be distracted by it on a minute by minute basis. Our energy is no where near where it should be, because there's nothing to be energetic about. A new iPhone? A new sequel to the prequel, to a wholly adolescent genre of fantasy movies? Energy is what we dont want to expend, its what we want to avoid doing. So instead we get a heart flutter over the possibility of drone-delivery systems, never once considering the privacy issues, and other impacts such intrusions will create. Better to get my Amazon stuff faster, then squash a dumb idea from the outset, or till its better debated. "Look its techy, and new, lets just adopt it willy-nilly!"
Sloth and apathy and gluttony are the new normal. Its what the lack of thought and respect for ourselves and the world in general has made us. We Americans never see our behaviors as ever being wrong, because after all, we're Americans. And we never do wrong.
But to the last points made by the author - I think our excess is not really linked to our creativity and vitality, etc...its the resulting product of what once was. We are not as creative as we once were - except in delivering more entertainment and ways to be distracted by it on a minute by minute basis. Our energy is no where near where it should be, because there's nothing to be energetic about. A new iPhone? A new sequel to the prequel, to a wholly adolescent genre of fantasy movies? Energy is what we dont want to expend, its what we want to avoid doing. So instead we get a heart flutter over the possibility of drone-delivery systems, never once considering the privacy issues, and other impacts such intrusions will create. Better to get my Amazon stuff faster, then squash a dumb idea from the outset, or till its better debated. "Look its techy, and new, lets just adopt it willy-nilly!"
Sloth and apathy and gluttony are the new normal. Its what the lack of thought and respect for ourselves and the world in general has made us. We Americans never see our behaviors as ever being wrong, because after all, we're Americans. And we never do wrong.
9
I had a Red State upbringing and later, as a bankruptcy lawyer, I learned what happened when national economic life was fantasy-based. It's Elizabeth Warren's kind of background; more people should listen to her!
My two-cents worth is that Mr Cohen left out of his analysis the destructive effects of the 1960's rebellions on American respect for authority. This is actually a hopeful perspective, although what happened was painful turmoil in which: Americans lost control of their schools after Brown v Board of Education, and government authority took an unrecoverable hit from the Vietnam era draft, where the Greatest Generation ate its own young. Then the "sexual revolution" dealt blows to several traditional "crowd control" religious ideas, among them the Anna Karenina / Tess of the D'Urbervilles idea the penalty for marital or sexual error ought to be death; and the cultural bias that gays were evil.
When our authorities digest what was learned from all this, if they do, they will be able to persuade again; and that can solve the problems Mr Cohen so truly discerns.
It is not surprising to me that Europe, after its world war cataclysms and without the Vietnam War and the legacy of African slavery to deal with, ended up making different choices. I kind of wish I lived there, in that peace, but I choose to try to fix what our ungoverned passions ruined in the last half of the 20th century.
My two-cents worth is that Mr Cohen left out of his analysis the destructive effects of the 1960's rebellions on American respect for authority. This is actually a hopeful perspective, although what happened was painful turmoil in which: Americans lost control of their schools after Brown v Board of Education, and government authority took an unrecoverable hit from the Vietnam era draft, where the Greatest Generation ate its own young. Then the "sexual revolution" dealt blows to several traditional "crowd control" religious ideas, among them the Anna Karenina / Tess of the D'Urbervilles idea the penalty for marital or sexual error ought to be death; and the cultural bias that gays were evil.
When our authorities digest what was learned from all this, if they do, they will be able to persuade again; and that can solve the problems Mr Cohen so truly discerns.
It is not surprising to me that Europe, after its world war cataclysms and without the Vietnam War and the legacy of African slavery to deal with, ended up making different choices. I kind of wish I lived there, in that peace, but I choose to try to fix what our ungoverned passions ruined in the last half of the 20th century.
9
Cohen: "It is also to be overwhelmed by the volume and vital clamor of American life...the strident individualism.
The "strident individualism" is why nothing is getting done to advance the public/common good of our nation. We have become a nation of "cranks," a nation disinterested in the public/common good that elects folks to Congress that are "cranks"; and it is why the Republican nominee for president will likely be just another "crank."
The "strident individualism" is why nothing is getting done to advance the public/common good of our nation. We have become a nation of "cranks," a nation disinterested in the public/common good that elects folks to Congress that are "cranks"; and it is why the Republican nominee for president will likely be just another "crank."
11
"Europe purrs...America revs." Errr...which part of America is Mr. Cohen talking about? Much of America is a rust belt and entire cities, Detroit being the most obvious, are actually or effectively bankrupt. It is easy to live in a pocket of wealth, such as Palo Alto, or (parts of) Atlanta, or Manhattan, and think that all is well. But it isn't. America is going downhill, fast. It's excess is financed by debt and its economy is driven by violence in the form of 'security' services, private prisons, 'defence', policing and the gun industry. The tens of thousands of Americans killed every year, either by gun/knife crime or by the police themselves, are proof of that. Northwestern Europe sets the bar in terms of high living standards, good education, universal healthcare and human rights. That is not at the cost of industrial output...the economies of Finland, Germany and Benelux are driven by advanced industry and engineering. Individual freedom is best protected by an inclusive and humane social contract, in which the state plays a big part....as is the case in Northwest Europe.
23
At the core of this issue is the concept of American exceptionalism, which seems to justify anything and everything regarding American life, politics, and culture because you think you are so special. Of course the corollary to this is that you are better than everyone else in the world at everything and have nothing to learn from other societies and cultures. I hate to break it to all of you special people, but that is not the case. There is a lot to be learned if this self-satisfied and arrogant attitude disappeared.
15
As long as we can keep our guns nothing else matters.
9
I, like most non-Americans (and especially Canadians!) have a love-hate relationship with the US. On the one hand, I admire the rugged individualism which built a great nation and world leader but on the other hand, I am often frustrated with the lack of a global mindset (basic ignorance about the rest of the world) that far too many Americans seem to take an almost perverse pride in (ie global warming deniers, too much trust in using military force to "solve" international problems, unwillingness to learn from other countries who have better policies ie gun control, universal health care, incarceration rates, racism, etc). As per Churchill's famous back-handed compliment - you can always count on the Americans to do the right thing in the end, after they've done everything else wrong beforehand. If Americans could learn from other countries, they could sure save themselves a lot of unnecessary anguish - but that's probably why we Canadians call the US the Excited States of America. It IS more exciting that Canada - but that's a decidedly mixed blessing.
27
I must be a European and never realized it.
4
Yas, yas.
Americans are so stoopid and unsophisticated as compared to Europeans. Why can't Americans be like Europe. Everyone knows how adroit Europeans are compared to Americans. And hey! They got FREE health care and gun control.
Let's all be like Europe!
Americans are so stoopid and unsophisticated as compared to Europeans. Why can't Americans be like Europe. Everyone knows how adroit Europeans are compared to Americans. And hey! They got FREE health care and gun control.
Let's all be like Europe!
2
American women, more than European women, still bear young. This makes families, the ultimate social safety net and collective enterprise, stronger here.
1
Most of the women bearing children in the U.S. go right on welfare and that's fact.
The movie Idiotocracy was not far from the truth and right on if you look at our political system
The movie Idiotocracy was not far from the truth and right on if you look at our political system
3
Except that 31% of American households have a single parent, and that single parents have more than tripled as a share of American households since 1960. http://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2013/09/the-mysterious-and-a...
2
Just back from France.
Beautiful country. Clean. Calm. Cafes crowded with happy people. No blood in the streets on the morning news. No homeless people. Good manners all around. They respect each other. High speed trains that run on time. Beautiful airports, museums, public gardens. I think France was what Thomas Jefferson had in mind when he wrote the Declaration of Independence. Given a choice between today's U.S. and today's France (emphasis on today's because of course Jefferson did live in Paris for quite a while), I think Jefferson would choose France.
The United States is, by comparison, nightmarish, a madhouse of greed, violence, cruelty and excess.
And as for the America's virtues ... let's not kid ourselves ... America is no longer a creative environment. What does America produce that is creative? Google, the scourge of the earth, the bean counter's dream?
America has been turned over to the corporations and the billionaires. It's dead.
Beautiful country. Clean. Calm. Cafes crowded with happy people. No blood in the streets on the morning news. No homeless people. Good manners all around. They respect each other. High speed trains that run on time. Beautiful airports, museums, public gardens. I think France was what Thomas Jefferson had in mind when he wrote the Declaration of Independence. Given a choice between today's U.S. and today's France (emphasis on today's because of course Jefferson did live in Paris for quite a while), I think Jefferson would choose France.
The United States is, by comparison, nightmarish, a madhouse of greed, violence, cruelty and excess.
And as for the America's virtues ... let's not kid ourselves ... America is no longer a creative environment. What does America produce that is creative? Google, the scourge of the earth, the bean counter's dream?
America has been turned over to the corporations and the billionaires. It's dead.
42
Americans and Europeans different?? Say it ain't so! The only disconcerting part of this poll is that 35% choose a safety net over freedom. I love Europe, but having lived there and visited over 100 times, I compare living there to living in your parent's house. You'll never reach your full potential with someone else paying all the expenses! I pay close to 40% of my income in taxes, and another 10% to my church; shouldn't 50% cover the safety net? Europeans lack a West like ours, both literally and figuratively, for their needle to settle.
6
We need much more discussion on the meaning of individualism because it appears most Americans simply follow models for dressing, eating, selecting professions, choosing leisure activities (such as viewing sports, or vacationing). Many of these models of behavior are deeply influenced by corporate interests, which people barely notice or willfully ignore. In many ways American individualism is just another myth....an unfortunate excuse not to have effective health care, better schools and good roads...
11
One thing that helps Europeans remain free of obesity, and utilization of less fossil fuels and drugs, is less advertising.
The biggest incentive for U.S. consumption is the ubiquitous barrage of advertising for sugary drinks, medications, automobiles, clothing, tech products and the photo images of the better and more attractive person you will be if you consume these products.
Billions are poured into these ad campaigns, and they are effective. Why? Most Americans embrace the promised image--they yearn for love, beauty, sexiness, health.
Unfortunately missing are ubiquitous ad campaigns that detail the health consequences of too much sugar, too much petroleum and pharmaceutical consumption, plastic pollution, inexpensive garment production and U.S. consumers' negative impacts on the world environment and on third world countries--those that make our clothes, our motherboards, those who burn the rainforest to graze cattle--for us.
Europe's centuries-long history, with its wars, famines and diseases, is not forgotten in European constitutions, which now promise free health and social safety nets, paid for by higher taxes. Prices for medications are controlled by the government.
Financial investments are made with the long view in mind. People are pragmatic. Money is saved for university educations, taxes, retirement and vacations. The idea of excess consumption is socially frowned upon.
Even with safety nets and vacations, as of 2014, the EU had the No. 1 GDP.
The biggest incentive for U.S. consumption is the ubiquitous barrage of advertising for sugary drinks, medications, automobiles, clothing, tech products and the photo images of the better and more attractive person you will be if you consume these products.
Billions are poured into these ad campaigns, and they are effective. Why? Most Americans embrace the promised image--they yearn for love, beauty, sexiness, health.
Unfortunately missing are ubiquitous ad campaigns that detail the health consequences of too much sugar, too much petroleum and pharmaceutical consumption, plastic pollution, inexpensive garment production and U.S. consumers' negative impacts on the world environment and on third world countries--those that make our clothes, our motherboards, those who burn the rainforest to graze cattle--for us.
Europe's centuries-long history, with its wars, famines and diseases, is not forgotten in European constitutions, which now promise free health and social safety nets, paid for by higher taxes. Prices for medications are controlled by the government.
Financial investments are made with the long view in mind. People are pragmatic. Money is saved for university educations, taxes, retirement and vacations. The idea of excess consumption is socially frowned upon.
Even with safety nets and vacations, as of 2014, the EU had the No. 1 GDP.
13
Very nice. Now, what fuels all that "individualism"? How about an advertising industry that caterers to the more, more, more chant? How about a media owned and operated by and for corporations? How about a political system hyping the notion that all collective, interdependent actions or ideas is "socialism" that will take something away from us instead of being additive? How about a lack of responsibility in our politic class to take action on pressing issues neglecting the common good?
We may not be feeding hunger for food. We may be feeding emptiness and loneliness because human beings are social animals, and we are denying a very important part of our humanity by eschewing the public and cooperative that would nurture our sense of common purpose, central to healthy maturation. We are "exceptional" alright, in a very unhealthy way.
We may not be feeding hunger for food. We may be feeding emptiness and loneliness because human beings are social animals, and we are denying a very important part of our humanity by eschewing the public and cooperative that would nurture our sense of common purpose, central to healthy maturation. We are "exceptional" alright, in a very unhealthy way.
11
Mr Cohen, your analysis doesn't explain Canada, a country with a wild open, frontier past even bigger than the US, a huge volume of immigration and a commercial culture very similar to the US, but a robust safety net, higher taxes, and a strong sense of the community's responsibility to vulnerable members. Perhaps the best place to look is still Toqueville: the 'pursuit of happiness' is essentially a lonely place, permanently dislocated from the present. European countries and Canada don't comment on happiness, which may be why many have such strong indicators of satisfaction. The constant American reminder that you don't have enough or aren't yet wealthy enough does more than spark a 'creative churn', it probably promotes depression too.
17
Commenter EBurgett makes the valid point that "[Europeans] have learned the hard way that inequality and poverty lead to political disaster." However they came to favor the basic welfare of the many over the obscene wealth of the few, they are culturally more egalitarian than the America of today. Equal opportunity is more equal in Europe these days, where health care and university are free.
The American notion of private giving to charity being somehow better than providing a floor for all through taxes is specious. Northern Europeans pay high taxes for their aforementioned benefits and to provide that floor, and thus may well give less to chariitable organizations--I don't have the figures at hand for that--but they do give; for example, my German neighbors routinely set out Goodwill-type donations at the curb for pickup and contributed to the German Red Cross as well. Their admittedly harsh treatment of the Greeks results from the fact that the Greeks lived like Germans while famously and unfairly avoiding the taxes.
Some Europeans may be just as cutthroat and individualistic as Americans, but their overall culture favors the common weal. Given the Puritan early American value of egalitarianism, the current iconoclastic fashion of contempt for their various shortcomings with denigration of their fundamental contributions to us nicely serves our rapacious cult of the individual.
The American notion of private giving to charity being somehow better than providing a floor for all through taxes is specious. Northern Europeans pay high taxes for their aforementioned benefits and to provide that floor, and thus may well give less to chariitable organizations--I don't have the figures at hand for that--but they do give; for example, my German neighbors routinely set out Goodwill-type donations at the curb for pickup and contributed to the German Red Cross as well. Their admittedly harsh treatment of the Greeks results from the fact that the Greeks lived like Germans while famously and unfairly avoiding the taxes.
Some Europeans may be just as cutthroat and individualistic as Americans, but their overall culture favors the common weal. Given the Puritan early American value of egalitarianism, the current iconoclastic fashion of contempt for their various shortcomings with denigration of their fundamental contributions to us nicely serves our rapacious cult of the individual.
11
I think the Internet Age has made it difficult to maintain the "rugged individualism" of the American ethos, since the idea that people are entirely self-made versus inter-dependent has been roundly disproven academically and otherwise. Todays unloved, uncared-for infant we neglect is tomorrow's criminal.
Our lack of action/acceptance of climate change doesn't simply affect the weather over America, nor do the coal plants of China simply affect Chinese air. Whether we like to admit it or not, our progressive industrialization and levels of consumption are having global consequences. Just like you can't burn tires in your backyard without stinking up the whole neighborhood, the world is just that on a larger scale. It's time we start to consider the consequences that go beyond and come from beyond our own backyard.
Our lack of action/acceptance of climate change doesn't simply affect the weather over America, nor do the coal plants of China simply affect Chinese air. Whether we like to admit it or not, our progressive industrialization and levels of consumption are having global consequences. Just like you can't burn tires in your backyard without stinking up the whole neighborhood, the world is just that on a larger scale. It's time we start to consider the consequences that go beyond and come from beyond our own backyard.
8
Recently saw a map of NYC showing areas where obesity is most prevalent..
To my surprise the most obese sectors were also the poorest. The thinnest sectors were the most affluent..
Apparently it's the government that's fattening the population.
To my surprise the most obese sectors were also the poorest. The thinnest sectors were the most affluent..
Apparently it's the government that's fattening the population.
4
It seems contradictory to say the individual trumps all while the oligarchs rule. The power in Europe may rest with governments while the concentration of power here in the United States more and more rests with the Oligarchs and the politicians they buy.
Choose your Master. Choose wisely! Citizens United needs to be overturned but as Justice Scalia points out that task is daunting... http://lstrn.us/R6K4M2
Choose your Master. Choose wisely! Citizens United needs to be overturned but as Justice Scalia points out that task is daunting... http://lstrn.us/R6K4M2
5
Sadly I have come to the conclusion that most Americans are naive children easily led by the ruling class to swallow all the propaganda fed to them by the very people who benefit the most, the rich/corporations/powerful aka the ruling class. Our country/democracy is being dismantled before our eyes (Citizens United, TPP, ALEC), and who do most Americans blame? The poor people and the brown people, the people who have the least amount of power in this country are blamed. Unfortunately most Americans will not recognize the truth until it arrives at their front door and knocks them flat. By then it will be too late. The die will be cast.
13
As a US citizen who has lived more than 20 years in Germany, I am always shocked to see the state of disrepair of the airports and roads in the US, and the lack of trains, trams and subways. This lack of infrastructure maintenance makes me worry for future generations of US citizens.
But what especially worries me is the lack of investment in education, and the fact that university costs have become unbearable for many families. Education of young people is also a type of infrastructure investment as it improves the quality of the workforce and makes US companies more competitive internationally. Yet many college graduates enter the workforce with debts that will take decades to pay off, forcing them to delay forming a family or give up the hope of owning a home. And many other young people with academic potential choose to avoid the debt trap by taking a job below their potential instead of attending college.
Contrast that with most European countries, where university tuition is close to zero. Graduates enter the workforce with little or no debt. My children recently graduated from one of the top ten universities in the world (Einstein’s alma-mater), where tuition is about $1300 per year. I grieve for talented poor or middle-class students in the US who will have to give up academic ambitions or face decades of debt as a reward for their studies, and I worry for the future of the US if politicians and voters cannot recognize the benefit of supporting today’s students.
But what especially worries me is the lack of investment in education, and the fact that university costs have become unbearable for many families. Education of young people is also a type of infrastructure investment as it improves the quality of the workforce and makes US companies more competitive internationally. Yet many college graduates enter the workforce with debts that will take decades to pay off, forcing them to delay forming a family or give up the hope of owning a home. And many other young people with academic potential choose to avoid the debt trap by taking a job below their potential instead of attending college.
Contrast that with most European countries, where university tuition is close to zero. Graduates enter the workforce with little or no debt. My children recently graduated from one of the top ten universities in the world (Einstein’s alma-mater), where tuition is about $1300 per year. I grieve for talented poor or middle-class students in the US who will have to give up academic ambitions or face decades of debt as a reward for their studies, and I worry for the future of the US if politicians and voters cannot recognize the benefit of supporting today’s students.
28
Eddie,
Do we live in the same Germany? I'm also an American who's lived in Germany for more than a decade and while I can well understand your point about the affordability of education here, I can't say that I see it as a positive. Have you seen the state of state operated universities in most of Germany? I'm an academic who teaches at university, and I have to buy my own chalk. That's right, chalk. The faculty has no money for chalk and there are no smart-boards or docking devices that allow us to use any technology at all in class, because the universities simply have no money to invest. In fact, we are lucky if there are enough chairs for our students in the lectures. I know hard working, and research-oriented academics who are on welfare because nearly none of us can get a permanent contract with a university because they simply can't afford to offer full contracts. So while the $1300 per year tuition sounds great, I can assure you that it has very real consequences for those of us who have chosen education as a profession.
I'm not really sure where you are, but in NRW, Germany's most populous federal state, the infrastructure's a shambles. The trains are never even remotely on time, the highways are always closed and there are bridges all over that are blocked because they can no longer carry traffic.
I agree with you 100% that the USA needs to invest in education more, but I also have to disagree 100% that they should follow anything close to the German example.
Do we live in the same Germany? I'm also an American who's lived in Germany for more than a decade and while I can well understand your point about the affordability of education here, I can't say that I see it as a positive. Have you seen the state of state operated universities in most of Germany? I'm an academic who teaches at university, and I have to buy my own chalk. That's right, chalk. The faculty has no money for chalk and there are no smart-boards or docking devices that allow us to use any technology at all in class, because the universities simply have no money to invest. In fact, we are lucky if there are enough chairs for our students in the lectures. I know hard working, and research-oriented academics who are on welfare because nearly none of us can get a permanent contract with a university because they simply can't afford to offer full contracts. So while the $1300 per year tuition sounds great, I can assure you that it has very real consequences for those of us who have chosen education as a profession.
I'm not really sure where you are, but in NRW, Germany's most populous federal state, the infrastructure's a shambles. The trains are never even remotely on time, the highways are always closed and there are bridges all over that are blocked because they can no longer carry traffic.
I agree with you 100% that the USA needs to invest in education more, but I also have to disagree 100% that they should follow anything close to the German example.
2
I refuse to accept that my happiness is mutually exclusive with that of others. For me to have a good life, my own fortune and well-being does not need to eclipse that of other human beings. It makes my life better to see everyone else living good lives, free from need.
Does this make me a socialist? If we're talking about socialism in the late 20th Century Western European sense, absolutely.
I wear that badge proudly. It is time that those of us of the American variety of homo sapiens start acting like the social creatures that we are.
Does this make me a socialist? If we're talking about socialism in the late 20th Century Western European sense, absolutely.
I wear that badge proudly. It is time that those of us of the American variety of homo sapiens start acting like the social creatures that we are.
11
Yes, by all means, let's curb the American appetite for consumerism.
And then watch as the world descends into a economic void, where trade protectionism. regional hegemony, and eventually, world war, become the predictable homages to the past.
And then watch as the world descends into a economic void, where trade protectionism. regional hegemony, and eventually, world war, become the predictable homages to the past.
5
A grave difference between this country and the rest of the first world is that our public education system is terrible in most states. The average European high-school graduate knows more about history, language, literature, biology, chemistry, physics and ecology than the average American college junior. Adults in Maine were better-educated in math, western history and literature in 1860 than they are today. They were also far better acquainted with firearms safety. Our media promulgates narcissistic imbecility, and our public laps it up.
15
Sad but true.
1
Well stated. Fat and flabby, the giant lurches towards its' own demise. A little twist on Lenin. The last capitalist will be hung by the rope it sells to the angry mob. Change hung to crushed and rope to burger.
1
America revs? By not forcing corporate America to pay living wages? A demand a stop to substantial cuts in education. To willfully withhold healthcare insurance from millions of fellow Americans? By enabling massacres by firearms that belong on a battlefield? Pfffft.
3
.
The claim implicit in the article is that people love freedom in proportion to their saying they love freedom.
On the evidence of the way they conduct themselves, this is an extremely implausible thing to think about Americans.
-dlj.
The claim implicit in the article is that people love freedom in proportion to their saying they love freedom.
On the evidence of the way they conduct themselves, this is an extremely implausible thing to think about Americans.
-dlj.
5
Americans have a fetish about individuality because unlike the European nations being compared here, the U. S. is a post-colonial nation with a legal structural bias towards freedom. The U. S. is populated by families who come here because European nations did not protect their own citizens from persecution, famine and war.
Cohen's piece forces the people to choose from an abstract false dichotomy between individual freedom and social responsibility and then uses the results to imply that more Americans are selfish gluttons only out for themselves. Americans are no different than other nationalities in taking pleasure buying into the world of goods. The true culprit of over consumption is over production controlled by the interests of wealthy investors who relentlessly market low quality products to the poor with empty promises of self-transformation.
Cohen's piece forces the people to choose from an abstract false dichotomy between individual freedom and social responsibility and then uses the results to imply that more Americans are selfish gluttons only out for themselves. Americans are no different than other nationalities in taking pleasure buying into the world of goods. The true culprit of over consumption is over production controlled by the interests of wealthy investors who relentlessly market low quality products to the poor with empty promises of self-transformation.
4
It's a mistake to attribute these differences to some kind of great, ancient cultural divide, geography or other factors. The simple fact is that we've been sold an ideology of crass individualism over the past several decades by politicians and corporations.
If you look at the history of this country, you'll see that socialism was once quite popular, people rode public transit that was the best in the world, and some areas had tuition-free college while the government invested heavily in infrastructure and R&D.
If you look at the history of this country, you'll see that socialism was once quite popular, people rode public transit that was the best in the world, and some areas had tuition-free college while the government invested heavily in infrastructure and R&D.
12
I've traveled Europe extensively. My mother was born in Belgium. My biggest regret in life was not to have moved to Europe in my 20s to establish a home and career there. I urge all young people to seriously consider this. The U.S. has become a tottering Plutocracy bent on extinguishing empathy for anyone.
11
To Marc from LA who regretted not having expatriated sooner: It's never too late! I moved to Germany at age 32, not speaking a word of German. I was fed up with the Reagan years and the entire US politics. I've been very happy here for over 20 years and have no plans to ever return. English language speakers with specialized skills are often very sought-after in Europe.
2
No question about it: The U.S. has become a tottering Plutocracy bent on extinguishing empathy for anyone.
2
Roger should not worry. Every day the US slurches towards becoming another Venezuela, which corruption on the Federal level that is unqualled. Pitting races and sexes against each other, using government organizations like the IRS and EPA to go after political opponents and surrendering to weaker countries like Iran. It is sad to watch
3
American individuality certainly is, as Mr. Cohen states, "creative churn, vitality and energy" marred by overconsumption. However, describing this relationship as a causation is overly simplistic. Individualism also has other implications other than the most obvious, pessimistic conclusions drawn from the article.
American's are starting to recognize that in order to preserve their thirst for innovation and personal freedom it's not by deregulation to allow for greater creative, individual mobility. Rather it is a focus on the greater social welfare. Sure, the going is slow, but there is forward progress marked by, for example, the Affordable Care Act or Iran Deal. Two initiatives that wouldn't be possible by an egocentric, consumeristic America.
American's are starting to recognize that in order to preserve their thirst for innovation and personal freedom it's not by deregulation to allow for greater creative, individual mobility. Rather it is a focus on the greater social welfare. Sure, the going is slow, but there is forward progress marked by, for example, the Affordable Care Act or Iran Deal. Two initiatives that wouldn't be possible by an egocentric, consumeristic America.
4
In the US, you can have three jobs and still not be able to rent and apartment but live in your car, without being able to unionize or complain in fear of being fired. What is strange is that not only is it considered that this is not an insult to freedom, something that happens in spite of freedom, but many people seem to think that this is the very definition of freedom.
It is the most successful con in the history: make people believe that slaveowner's freedom is their freedom, too.
"Slavery is freedom". George Orwell, 1984.
It is the most successful con in the history: make people believe that slaveowner's freedom is their freedom, too.
"Slavery is freedom". George Orwell, 1984.
133
Trump is a one trick pony and his fortunes will ebb. “Is that all there is” as the Peggy Lee song goes. Yes that’s all there is. But that debate was a dog and pony show showing off fatuous policies and blatant mendacity and Gov. Kasich was the only one I saw who could demonstrate experience and qualifications for the presidency.
Dr. K suggests that “ the G.O.P. has become an ‘insurgent outlier … unpersuaded by conventional understanding of facts, evidence, and science.’ It’s a party that has no room for rational positions on many major issues.” In the political spectrum the room on the right does not go to infinity. Republicans now all call themselves “conservatives,” which has now gone beyond neo-liberalism and is dishonest a euphemism for fascism , which results in a oligarchy where the military and its needs and corporate greed, replaces constitutional democratic government.
These people do not compromise. If they cannot own government it must be destroyed. They complained about the sequester which the GOP demanded. They take credit for the improvements in their state economies as Walker and Christie did, when it was Obama’s policies that averted another great depression after their policies destroyed the economy in 2008. Why are they against Medicare and Obamacare and health services for women, civil and voting rights and insistent on police and military solutions to our problems? Because they have been bought and dance to whatever tune the oligarchs play.
Dr. K suggests that “ the G.O.P. has become an ‘insurgent outlier … unpersuaded by conventional understanding of facts, evidence, and science.’ It’s a party that has no room for rational positions on many major issues.” In the political spectrum the room on the right does not go to infinity. Republicans now all call themselves “conservatives,” which has now gone beyond neo-liberalism and is dishonest a euphemism for fascism , which results in a oligarchy where the military and its needs and corporate greed, replaces constitutional democratic government.
These people do not compromise. If they cannot own government it must be destroyed. They complained about the sequester which the GOP demanded. They take credit for the improvements in their state economies as Walker and Christie did, when it was Obama’s policies that averted another great depression after their policies destroyed the economy in 2008. Why are they against Medicare and Obamacare and health services for women, civil and voting rights and insistent on police and military solutions to our problems? Because they have been bought and dance to whatever tune the oligarchs play.
54
I would say Eddie Bernays, the "father" of marketing, has had an outsize impact on American Culture.
2
Having lived off and on in Europe over the past 25 years, I can say with absolute confidence that I am freer in Europe.
I'll take hedonistic Bohemia (Czech Republic) and the freedoms to imbibe whatever mind-altering substances I choose without fear of repercussions; to discuss art, literature, philosophy and culture with diverse and sometimes brilliant opinions; and a guarantee that I need never be homeless or go without medical care over the freedom to be greedy, hypocritical and wasteful (not to mention violent) any day, thanks.
I'll take hedonistic Bohemia (Czech Republic) and the freedoms to imbibe whatever mind-altering substances I choose without fear of repercussions; to discuss art, literature, philosophy and culture with diverse and sometimes brilliant opinions; and a guarantee that I need never be homeless or go without medical care over the freedom to be greedy, hypocritical and wasteful (not to mention violent) any day, thanks.
4
Let's not forget that we underwrote Europe's ability to invest in itself with the Marshall Plan and our defense posture that enabled them to spend less to defend themselves and more on their own people.
1
There seems to be a growing sense among Americans that they're entitled to a free ride: to engage in behaviors that have societal costs, but without having to lift a finger or pay anything to deal with those costs. Obesity is straining our health care system and making it even more ridiculously expensive, but God forbid anybody should have to pay an extra penny for that monster soda at the Gulp' n' Blow. I haven't traveled abroad in a few years, but Mr. Cohen is exactly right that it's embarrassing to go to a modern airport on well-maintained roads for the flight home, then arrive in the US and see the infrastructure would be state of the art for 1965. I can hear Homer Simpson shouting "U-S-A! U-S-A!"
3
Seriously? Another tribute to how much better everything is in Europe? How does Mr Cohen ignore excess in Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal? They are effectively bankrupt because their citizens rely too much on the state to take care of them. Go to any square in Southern Europe at midday and find hordes of men drinking coffee, reading their newspapers and playing dominoes. These men are mostly of working age and they are retired on a pension The issue of dwindling funds to maintain those pensions is overwhelming.
Obesity is a problem in the U.S. Kids don't feel safe playing on the streets by themselves as many of my age did. I had to be dragged into the house for dinner. I'd like to see emphasis on making neighborhoods safe by using policing strategies that make criminals uncomfortable, not law abiding citizens.
As for energy costs: subsidizing energy sources that have no chance of being profitable is not a good idea. Electricity does not appear out of the sky. An owner of a Tesla may feel good about their choice but something had to be harnessed for that electricity to be available. The cost of these vehicles prices them out of reach for the vast majority of consumers.
Yes, we don't like to be told what to do. And hopefully we as a nation will not lose our individualism that defines us and makes us great.
Obesity is a problem in the U.S. Kids don't feel safe playing on the streets by themselves as many of my age did. I had to be dragged into the house for dinner. I'd like to see emphasis on making neighborhoods safe by using policing strategies that make criminals uncomfortable, not law abiding citizens.
As for energy costs: subsidizing energy sources that have no chance of being profitable is not a good idea. Electricity does not appear out of the sky. An owner of a Tesla may feel good about their choice but something had to be harnessed for that electricity to be available. The cost of these vehicles prices them out of reach for the vast majority of consumers.
Yes, we don't like to be told what to do. And hopefully we as a nation will not lose our individualism that defines us and makes us great.
2
I think roger Cohen misses the point. The features of current American politics, culture and society he cites are the product of distortion of historical American values by the culture of pampered selfish narcissism, coupled with the view that all values are equivalent, that is the unfortunate legacy of the boomers and their descendents and the conservative backlash against it.
2
EU tends toward a 'humanistic' meme, US tends toward systematic'; both can offer misery/deadendeness or satisfaction/productivity - take your choice...
As a Canadian who splits time between Dearborn MI and Toronto ON, and has lived and worked off and on in the USA for the last 15 years, I have noticed the same divide between us two people who share the same race, speak the same language, eat the same food, wear the same clothes, play the same sports, listen to the same music, watch the same movies, and practice the same religion and culture.
Canada has Peace but America has Freedom.
The price of peace is freedom, and the price of freedom is peace. Learn to live with it.
Canada has Peace but America has Freedom.
The price of peace is freedom, and the price of freedom is peace. Learn to live with it.
3
To the degree that the US is incapable of internal change, it is incapable of leadership by example. All else is hypocrisy.
2
You can't compare America with Germany, Denmark, France or even Great Britain. You need to compare America with Europe. Ask Germans how much they trust the EU government, how willing they are to support Greeks, Italians and Spaniards with their taxes. Then you'll start getting those American numbers.
3
You can put this another way: a continent run by adults who see and address society-wide problems in the only feasible way - collective action - and a continent run by selfish children looking out only for themselves.
The results ate plain to see: an immensely wealthy counrty mired in immoral levels of poverty anf hunger, its infrastructure falling apart, its citizens atomized in their personal bubbles and fearful of each other, gun culture capitalizing on this fear and atomization to run amok at immense social cost annually, repulsive levels of selfishness and waste - and all the while, just like children, the citizens must tell themselves over and over and over that they live in the best place in the history of forever that they are number one at everything, when they plainly, are not.
Yes, the playground has more "churn and vitality" than the workplace, but it is still the domain of children.
The results ate plain to see: an immensely wealthy counrty mired in immoral levels of poverty anf hunger, its infrastructure falling apart, its citizens atomized in their personal bubbles and fearful of each other, gun culture capitalizing on this fear and atomization to run amok at immense social cost annually, repulsive levels of selfishness and waste - and all the while, just like children, the citizens must tell themselves over and over and over that they live in the best place in the history of forever that they are number one at everything, when they plainly, are not.
Yes, the playground has more "churn and vitality" than the workplace, but it is still the domain of children.
6
There are other, perhaps unintended consequences of such excesses around the world. Most developing country are seen as no more than a demographic opportunity where American lifestyle driven per capita consumption of at least packaged foods and beverages are seen as business goals in themselves for business organizations to emulate. So colas, cookies chocolate consumption levels which currently are a fraction of America are seen inadequate and as an opportunity to play catch up.
I recall when I first began to travel to the USA over three decades ago I would notice not just that a 'single serve' was way larger than what we were used to here in India, but there was a (criminal) waste as food would be trashed in vast quantities. Even unopened sachets of ketchup, coffee, sugar, creamer, cookies would be just dumped. All this wasted never eaten food shows up as per capita consumption - distorting the real element of consumption. The business organizations unmindful of all this waste would continue drive sales locally to achieve those impossible imaginary goals. So excess as consumption gets globalized and so do the challenges to mitigate the deleterious outcomes - healthcare, pollution, green house gases etc.
I recall when I first began to travel to the USA over three decades ago I would notice not just that a 'single serve' was way larger than what we were used to here in India, but there was a (criminal) waste as food would be trashed in vast quantities. Even unopened sachets of ketchup, coffee, sugar, creamer, cookies would be just dumped. All this wasted never eaten food shows up as per capita consumption - distorting the real element of consumption. The business organizations unmindful of all this waste would continue drive sales locally to achieve those impossible imaginary goals. So excess as consumption gets globalized and so do the challenges to mitigate the deleterious outcomes - healthcare, pollution, green house gases etc.
9
Vietnam and Reagan made Americans forget the virtues of protecting the common good instilled by WWII. Here we are.
7
As time goes on, I've come to appreciate your columns ever more, Mr Cohen. This most recent one is no exception. At the end of your column, you conclude with the comment that "The question, of course, is whether America’s virtues — its creative churn, vitality and energy — are intrinsic to these vices. My own pessimistic conclusion is that they probably are." In this, I agree that analysis is right on. However, while you state this unhappy balance as a pessimistic belief, it is actually a necessary condition for a society's positives to emerge. What any society has to offer as its most valuable contributions, is only possible because it has taken shape historically alongside that society's opposing forces. Instead of taking what is negative in a society as an end point, it is more constructive to take embrace such a lucid observation as a means of understanding how the what we take as 'undesirable' helps give rise to what we deem desirable. Now THAT would be interesting....
2
Here's a satire antidote---clips from Andy Borowitz, The New Yorker:
"Nation Worried That Rest of World Might See Debate", Aug. 3.
As the Gop debates get underway--- “a new poll shows that Americans are deeply concerned that the rest of the world might see it....there is widespread fear that if the debate are viewed abroad, the cost to US prestige around the world would be incalculable.”
“.... many expressed concern that international broadcast of the debate would greatly diminish their desire to ever travel abroad or talk to foreigners....and strongly agreed that the U.S. government should block the foreign transmission of the debate.”
“...said maybe Fox News should air an explanation of the contest beforehand, but they were at a loss as to what that explanation could possibly be.....to sum up Americans’ anxiety, a broad majority agreed with the statement “God, this is so embarrassing.”
omg, is it ever.
"Nation Worried That Rest of World Might See Debate", Aug. 3.
As the Gop debates get underway--- “a new poll shows that Americans are deeply concerned that the rest of the world might see it....there is widespread fear that if the debate are viewed abroad, the cost to US prestige around the world would be incalculable.”
“.... many expressed concern that international broadcast of the debate would greatly diminish their desire to ever travel abroad or talk to foreigners....and strongly agreed that the U.S. government should block the foreign transmission of the debate.”
“...said maybe Fox News should air an explanation of the contest beforehand, but they were at a loss as to what that explanation could possibly be.....to sum up Americans’ anxiety, a broad majority agreed with the statement “God, this is so embarrassing.”
omg, is it ever.
9
Lets not conflate individuality with egotism. Europeans cannot regress to such levels of self absorption since the union is highly heterogeneous..Everyone must speak a foreign tongue if they care to relate with the country next door..This creates real difference, which is not only respect, but also a curiosity for ones neighbors...True difference produces true individualism-someone whose self isnt only a head in a herd. True individuals love difference and love others..
though paradoxical, the more differentiated a society, the greater its potential to produce individuals..
Though considered one of the wealthiest nations, Americans are some of the least traveled people ( 20%of Americans use their passports..??)
People who have little interest in others are not individuals but collectivists run by a herd instinct...Their over consumption is not " vibrant " but environmentally toxic and economically exploitative..
though paradoxical, the more differentiated a society, the greater its potential to produce individuals..
Though considered one of the wealthiest nations, Americans are some of the least traveled people ( 20%of Americans use their passports..??)
People who have little interest in others are not individuals but collectivists run by a herd instinct...Their over consumption is not " vibrant " but environmentally toxic and economically exploitative..
4
With great personal respect to Roger Cohen, 62.1% of British adults are now considered overweight or obese. The "Welfare State" is over. Cameron's Conservative government has cut living, housing, education benefits and the NHS. Prevailing govt and societal attitude is that disabled and poor are "scroungers". The government hired an untrained agency (ATOS) to screen all disabled and chronically ill for benefits with no medical input. If a person could stand and walk 30 metres, they were fit to work and all benefits were cut immediately despite physical pain or severe mental illness. The economy had no jobs. Some screening centres had no wheelchair access. If the person could not get up the stairs, their benefits were cut immediately for not showing up. After years, ATOS finally lost their contract as another egregious policy was put into place. Britain has the lowest survival rate for cancer, stroke and other major conditions in the developed world. Americans know the parts of their bodies and insist on equal partnerships with their physicians who ask diagnostic questions. Over 60% of British adults cannot name or place major body organs. Most assume patients too stupid to know their symptoms or history - patients don't offer and doctors don't ask. We are two vastly different cultures, one with an historic class system insisting your betters know what's best for you. Americans don't do that. You never did. By the way, no one queues for buses anymore.
9
I grew up in NY and have lived abroad for over twenty years. At some point, the idea of 'freedom' disappears in daily life if each day is just about the struggle to make ends meet, pay dearly for your children's schooling, and try to save some money toward retirement. Yes, you can make it big in America with a great idea and solid backing, but most people will never have either. I know many people for whom the American dream of owning their own home has all but disappeared, due to high property taxes, the inability to get a mortgage due to too low income, and the high cost of education. I see the excess in American life, but it is by no means limited to America. There is also excess in the wealthier countries in Europe (it has to do with the misuse of wealth); the difference is that some sort of safety net does exist for the difficult times that befall many people, thanks to the higher taxes that are paid in those countries. America needs another FDR to help inspire the change that is needed to tackle the problems and move forward.
14
If you think you need to have a great idea and backing to make it big or at least achieve financial independence in America, you are have missed the boat. Immigrants from all over the world come to America and achieve the their version of the American Dream (which could mean wealth but most definitely a better life) Look at all the Chinese restaurants, Mexican restaurants. You name it. They worked,saved , and invested in themselves, and are succeeding. How, they're working for themselves. You should read The Richest Man in Babylon and Rich Dad, Poor Dad for a start on your path to economic freedom. And the more you make the more you can spend and have all while creating better incomes for others. You will create even more tax dollars foot the needy while you're at it. By the way, withoutAmerica is by far the most generous Country in the world. Stop complaining and figure it out. Weenie.
1
The ultimate Socialist manifesto:
"We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America."
Huh, working together to build a great country for all.
How evil. . .
"We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America."
Huh, working together to build a great country for all.
How evil. . .
12
I think Roger - like many educated Americans - idealizes the European idea. Although Europe most certainly has a great state of welfare, awareness of health and the use of resources. But I think Europe hides behind these great accomplishments and doesn't let anyone see all the nastiness it also brings along with it such as what's happening in Greece, immigration and the economic downturn. I think Americans still have the pilgrims disease, making everybody believe they can reach anything they want and everyone can be a superstar by self-reliance and hard work, which that actually just leads to egoistic self-destruction and illness. I always wondered why mental health and things like ADHD and such are so high in the U.S. and I can only come up with that there is an enormous double-standard between what is expected of people at a very young age and what they can actually accomplish with their so-called self-reliance, which you really can only qustion your self-worth if you never reach, what society makes you believe is success and happiness. I think self-reliance in that context is stupid and I will never understand why so many Americans think "freedom" is the most important thing, not realizing that their so-called freedom is pretty much life under constant supervision and oppression, while we in Europe don't really care about that kind of freedom because you know what? We just have it anyways...
But all in all don't idealize Europe, cause we are flawed, just like the U.S.
But all in all don't idealize Europe, cause we are flawed, just like the U.S.
4
Wow. Among the seething hatred of these comments, it's easy to forget how great New York felt today, and what a decent group of people work together at my firm.
A diverse bunch, all descendants of immigrants -- Italian, Irish, German, Romanian, Swedish, African, English, Hispanic. Just a regular bunch of Americans. A couple of us are fat, most aren't. But we do a pretty good day's work, and have a lot of laughs.
Honestly, I feel like that's a fairly typical make-up of an American workplace. We have a mix of political leanings, and we argue sometimes, but that's a good thing. So where is all of this intense negativity coming from?
We're not Europe, but we'll get there -- we're slowly becoming more socialist, and we will have national single payer health soon enough. We'll even get to improving our infrastructure, once we stop paying for so much of the world's defense. Give us time. We're still young -- we have lots to learn. When we get it right, we'll build a beautiful, truly cosmopolitan country.
A diverse bunch, all descendants of immigrants -- Italian, Irish, German, Romanian, Swedish, African, English, Hispanic. Just a regular bunch of Americans. A couple of us are fat, most aren't. But we do a pretty good day's work, and have a lot of laughs.
Honestly, I feel like that's a fairly typical make-up of an American workplace. We have a mix of political leanings, and we argue sometimes, but that's a good thing. So where is all of this intense negativity coming from?
We're not Europe, but we'll get there -- we're slowly becoming more socialist, and we will have national single payer health soon enough. We'll even get to improving our infrastructure, once we stop paying for so much of the world's defense. Give us time. We're still young -- we have lots to learn. When we get it right, we'll build a beautiful, truly cosmopolitan country.
11
If you watched last night's republican debate, you cannot remain so optimistic.
2
One of the little phenomena that I find telling is the dogs we choose in this country. Every time I return to Los Angeles after a visit to Europe I am struck again by the prevalence of pit bulls here. I am not talking about something I see in poor, crime-ridden areas; I see this in very expensive fashionable areas. Fully aware of the higher than normal propensity for attacking other dogs or children, an unusually high percentage of people in the U.S. opt to acquire these pets instead of other more innocuous ones. It slaps me in the face every time as damning evidence of how malignantly selfish so many Americans are. It says absolutely nothing good about us.
8
Wow, what a surprise. Another liberal who hates America.
6
Thoughtful contribution. Run for President.
2
Wow, another self-styled "conservative" who hates America by criticizing the majority of Americans, who are "liberals," and attacks the messenger rather than debating the message.
2
What a pathetic non-response to a thoughtful piece. In fact, it exaclty illustrates the sort of infantile selfishness documented in the article.
5
Mindless attempt to revere Europe for being socially just. 99% of them would move to America tomorrow if we gave them a shot. What exactly has Europe created in the last 20 years?
4
How about digital mobile phone technology ?
The Global Systeme Mobile standard was developed by French and Swedish state telecoms companies. They made the GSM specifications and standards open to all.
BTW, I'm a Londoner, with a masters from the US, who's quite happy living in London.
;-)
The Global Systeme Mobile standard was developed by French and Swedish state telecoms companies. They made the GSM specifications and standards open to all.
BTW, I'm a Londoner, with a masters from the US, who's quite happy living in London.
;-)
2
Mkst Europeans have NO DESIRE to live in America. What has Europe created in the last 20 yrs? All the top cars people want to drive (VW, Audi, BMW, Mercedes), the Nokia cellphines people use, the cuisine people eat, the styrles they wear - and they've done all that while providing health insurance to eveyone at lower cost than we pay and eliminating the sort of 18th century poverty you see on a drive through West Virginia.
2
I've lived in Europe for several years and I never met anyone who wanted to move to the U.S. In this case there is a problem of sample error. Most foreigners that Americans meet are those who want to move to the U.S. my it this in no way suggests that everyone in the world wants to live in America though.
4
Kid's culture for adults! Soft power exports are Coke, McDonald's, Disney, Las Vegas. Running around brandishing guns. Pretend self-reliance. Playpen politics. Swagger and braggadocio. Lots of violence and when the toys are broken, sulk (see Middle East). Denying what you don't like makes it go away. The cost of everything and the value of nothing. Grow up!
10
"Our system of government, and living, is the worst ... except for all the other forms of government on this Troubled Planet."
I know I don't have that quotation right, and I don't know whom to attribute it to, but it fits.
Yeah ... we got problems, and we better solve 'em, but to follow The Euros in their inevitable decline, as may now be beginning, is a folly that can lead to one result ---peoples totally dependent on a benevolent government.
And, when that government decides to become Not-Benevolent, well ... I believe you might figure the rest out for yourselves.
"Careful what you wish for; you might not like what you get." (Don't know who said that either.)
I know I don't have that quotation right, and I don't know whom to attribute it to, but it fits.
Yeah ... we got problems, and we better solve 'em, but to follow The Euros in their inevitable decline, as may now be beginning, is a folly that can lead to one result ---peoples totally dependent on a benevolent government.
And, when that government decides to become Not-Benevolent, well ... I believe you might figure the rest out for yourselves.
"Careful what you wish for; you might not like what you get." (Don't know who said that either.)
6
A paraphrase of Churchill perhaps? Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all those other forms that have been tried from time to time." (from a House of Commons speech on Nov. 11, 1947)
4
The notion of individual self-reliance and freedom worked very well and to America's advantage for the last 200 years when resources were plenty, the environment was less stressed and lump sums of fortune was there to be made but required productive work for the most part (i.e. resulted in at least job creation for the rest).
Today, even though America is still exceptional in a multitude of ways, the world is smaller due to technology and has caught up. Resources are not infinite and there is population pressure. What worked immensely successfully before is not any more and we will have to adapt. We are more like the rest of the world or they have become more like us.
Some notions of individualism and freedom will have to change to a more collective ethos...there are just more of us here now.
Today, even though America is still exceptional in a multitude of ways, the world is smaller due to technology and has caught up. Resources are not infinite and there is population pressure. What worked immensely successfully before is not any more and we will have to adapt. We are more like the rest of the world or they have become more like us.
Some notions of individualism and freedom will have to change to a more collective ethos...there are just more of us here now.
6
We are part of and overheating world, and we are a major contributor. Reducing our use of fossil fuels, Coal especially, is critical to human survival. Besides improving our air, we set an example along with Europe for Asia & other lands. That example can be pushed on them if we 'practice what we preach'. Failure means a scary over heated earth for our children & grandchildren with terrible consequences for them.
We must reduce excess breeding by our Rich & our Poor, the later without Marriage, Resources or Skills. Likewise with our improper eathing; note the Rich are not Obese. Once we do this, with Europe's help, we can push this on other parts of the world that overbreed.
If we are unwilling to do the above, we must develop 'Weapons of Mass Extermination' to reduce our over hearing & consuming world to 4 Billion instead of the 8 Billion projected for 2020 about. We can't use Atom Bombs because many of these people live on lands full of hydrocarbons & at least 1 nation has atomic bombs. Instead, we spend tax money on late 20th century weapons because our politicians receive contributions from the makers.
We must reduce excess breeding by our Rich & our Poor, the later without Marriage, Resources or Skills. Likewise with our improper eathing; note the Rich are not Obese. Once we do this, with Europe's help, we can push this on other parts of the world that overbreed.
If we are unwilling to do the above, we must develop 'Weapons of Mass Extermination' to reduce our over hearing & consuming world to 4 Billion instead of the 8 Billion projected for 2020 about. We can't use Atom Bombs because many of these people live on lands full of hydrocarbons & at least 1 nation has atomic bombs. Instead, we spend tax money on late 20th century weapons because our politicians receive contributions from the makers.
1
Individualism and collectivism both have their virtues. Interestingly, some efforts are underway in East Asian education to integrate more creativity in the “western” model and more capitalism into the socialist model.
A more collectivist mindset could surely help Americans resolve such issues as crumbling infrastructure by working toward the common good.
In the SF Bay Area, for example, 3-4 decades ago you couldn’t see across the bay for all the pollution; enter decent government regulation-- smog-control devices on motor vehicles, for example—and you have a dramatically different picture today. Collective efforts can work without surrendering to the “godless communism” of the 50s.
Although the creeping oligarchy certainly endangers liberty, obesity, environmental slovenliness, and conspicuous waste/consumption reflect an underlying narcissism/entitlement—American Exceptionalism run riot.
A more collectivist mindset could surely help Americans resolve such issues as crumbling infrastructure by working toward the common good.
In the SF Bay Area, for example, 3-4 decades ago you couldn’t see across the bay for all the pollution; enter decent government regulation-- smog-control devices on motor vehicles, for example—and you have a dramatically different picture today. Collective efforts can work without surrendering to the “godless communism” of the 50s.
Although the creeping oligarchy certainly endangers liberty, obesity, environmental slovenliness, and conspicuous waste/consumption reflect an underlying narcissism/entitlement—American Exceptionalism run riot.
4
Americans are being told to "grow up". But what is really happening, is that the age of pioneering is closing on our ever shrinking and overcrowded planet. And it's being replaced by the age of husbandry. That's not an exciting trade to make, and many Americans prefer the Peter Pan solution.
7
Freedom is commonly not accompanied by justice. Low income Americans are more often obese and have cheap medical insurance while the executives have health insurance that covers everything.That's American freedom but not justice.
9
"Europe is more organized, America more alive. Europe purrs; even its hardship seems somehow muted. America revs. The differences can feel violent." I always enjoy Roger Cohen's when's work, but I think this comparison shows exceptional insight. I a not pessimistic about America, for we have been solving our problems for more than two centuries. Granted, as Winston Churchill said, we can perhaps always be relied upon to do the right thing, after we have tried everything else.
2
"To return from Europe to the United States, as I did recently, is to be struck by the crumbling infrastructure, the paucity of public spaces, the conspicuous waste (of food and energy above all), the dirtiness of cities and the acuteness of their poverty."
Unfortunately, except for the line on conspicuous waste, I wasn't sure if Cohen was talking about Europe or the US in this description.
I think the principle of government-guaranteed solidarity is higher here, but we see tremendous waste and corruption in the use of tax revenue, and lots of minor rule- breaking that all together erodes civil society. They can't clean the streets if people can't be bothered to move their cars. There is also much variation across Europe, and states which traditionally have been generous and inclusive are rolling back in the face of unprecedented immigration and diversity (take sparkling clean and organized Denmark, for example).
Usually when I come back to Europe from visits to the US, one or two striking differences stand out. Last time it was the paradox of being in a place where the abundance of food and food choices was overwhelming, but I couldn't find anything I wanted to eat. Try finding plain yogurt, to be eaten with a spoon, in small town Kansas. My son burst out crying when his ice cream was served up in pellets. Sugar, packaging, waste, and fat.
Unfortunately, except for the line on conspicuous waste, I wasn't sure if Cohen was talking about Europe or the US in this description.
I think the principle of government-guaranteed solidarity is higher here, but we see tremendous waste and corruption in the use of tax revenue, and lots of minor rule- breaking that all together erodes civil society. They can't clean the streets if people can't be bothered to move their cars. There is also much variation across Europe, and states which traditionally have been generous and inclusive are rolling back in the face of unprecedented immigration and diversity (take sparkling clean and organized Denmark, for example).
Usually when I come back to Europe from visits to the US, one or two striking differences stand out. Last time it was the paradox of being in a place where the abundance of food and food choices was overwhelming, but I couldn't find anything I wanted to eat. Try finding plain yogurt, to be eaten with a spoon, in small town Kansas. My son burst out crying when his ice cream was served up in pellets. Sugar, packaging, waste, and fat.
7
"To return from Europe to the United States, as I did recently, is to be struck by...(fill in the blanks)"
Snapshots:
1) 6/8 made a seamless public transportation trip from Styrsö (island off the west coast of Sweden) to Linköping via: Ferry-Express local bus-State of the art regional Bus4You-local bus) - can I do that after arrival at Logan on the 18th? Not a chance.
2) 6/8 made bank transfers and bill payments using the all electronic system of my Swedish bank SEB - takes a minute or two. Then faced the same task first via Bank of America - one places an order and B of A sends a PAPER check! Takes days! Then via Citizens in Vermont using a tangled system that not even Rube Goldberg could have invented. Electronic systems, what are they?
3) For the worst, just read the Times 6/8 on voting in America (Texas) and the 1100 comments in which we expats report from countries that have 21st century systems using photo IDs no-questions asked to vote.
I will enjoy my visit but not the obstacles. And in northern Vermont I can visit two colleges* where 21st century renewable energy systems (Gound Source Geothermal Heat Pump) result in a few less of those horrible lines of oil tank cars I will see next to the Hudson (Albany) and Lake Champlain (Burlington).
Only-NeverInSweden.blogspot.com
*Champlain College, Saint Michaels College
Snapshots:
1) 6/8 made a seamless public transportation trip from Styrsö (island off the west coast of Sweden) to Linköping via: Ferry-Express local bus-State of the art regional Bus4You-local bus) - can I do that after arrival at Logan on the 18th? Not a chance.
2) 6/8 made bank transfers and bill payments using the all electronic system of my Swedish bank SEB - takes a minute or two. Then faced the same task first via Bank of America - one places an order and B of A sends a PAPER check! Takes days! Then via Citizens in Vermont using a tangled system that not even Rube Goldberg could have invented. Electronic systems, what are they?
3) For the worst, just read the Times 6/8 on voting in America (Texas) and the 1100 comments in which we expats report from countries that have 21st century systems using photo IDs no-questions asked to vote.
I will enjoy my visit but not the obstacles. And in northern Vermont I can visit two colleges* where 21st century renewable energy systems (Gound Source Geothermal Heat Pump) result in a few less of those horrible lines of oil tank cars I will see next to the Hudson (Albany) and Lake Champlain (Burlington).
Only-NeverInSweden.blogspot.com
*Champlain College, Saint Michaels College
7
Europeans live in small countries where they are more likely to be packed together, and where bigger cars can't fit on the roads. Their commutes tend to be shorter and trains, buses and subways are practical. Much of America lives in suburban and rural areas where mass transit is simply not possible. So of course Americans use more carbon per person.
Also, Europeans' weather in the summer tends to be cooler so they don't need air conditioning.
As for their infrastructure, on my trips to Europe it has never seen especially grand or any less crumbling than in the U.S., nor are the cities any cleaner. I think Roger is looking for what he wants in that regard.
Also, Europeans' weather in the summer tends to be cooler so they don't need air conditioning.
As for their infrastructure, on my trips to Europe it has never seen especially grand or any less crumbling than in the U.S., nor are the cities any cleaner. I think Roger is looking for what he wants in that regard.
3
Societies make choices. Americans live in suburban sprawl because they chose to build suburbs. Europeans live in the compact cities they chose to build.
1
Every country has its pluses and minuses. In the US, I can go for days without breathing cigarette smoke; I never have to pay a bribe or pay an amount different from the invoice (Thank-you Britain!). In Europe, I can sit outside in a bar and watch my children play in a public square (rarely possible in the US, thank-you Puritans).
American excess is a direct result of free capitalism. Companies optimize to meet peoples' desires (including shaping those desires through advertising). One result is obesity. Another result is that I can move into an apartment and have all utilities plus internet working within a few hours. I can start and equip a company in a week. Try that in Europe!
American excess is a direct result of free capitalism. Companies optimize to meet peoples' desires (including shaping those desires through advertising). One result is obesity. Another result is that I can move into an apartment and have all utilities plus internet working within a few hours. I can start and equip a company in a week. Try that in Europe!
5
Thank you for this.
2
Our people have been brainwashed to think that Europe is backward. That may have been the case during my early childhood when Europe was still recovering from WWII, but it hasn't been the case for quite a few decades. Instead we waste everything and don't keep up our surroundings.
The US isn't a rich country, it is a poor country with quite a few rich people.
The US isn't a rich country, it is a poor country with quite a few rich people.
12
Jimmy Carter said “too many of us now tend to worship self-indulgence and consumption. Human identity is no longer defined by what one does, but by what one owns.”
Measure of “American Dream” is the value of the material goods Americans have accumulated. The dilemma is the consistent belief that they can live beyond their means. Like most other capitalist forms, consumerism is concerned with short-term profits without consideration for the future effects of wealth distribution due to overspending. If a household’s income is stagnant or decreasing, but its consumption is increasing, that means the people are borrowing: taking out home equity loans, or maxing out credit cards. Statistics show that as median incomes have stagnated since the turn of the century, household debts have exploded.
Black Friday is the epitome of capitalist, consumerist America. This outlandish practice has practically attained itself the iconic national status.. Black Friday is the Friday following Thanksgiving Day. It's regarded as the beginning of the Christmas shopping season in the US, and most major retailers open very early and offer promotional sales. On this day, stores open at 4 a.m. so that rioting shoppers can buy a superfluous number of products at prices that are relatively cheaper than usual.
Apparently the very individualism is being brilliantly used by big business to collectively herd Americans persuading them to be extravagantly buy what they don' really need!
Measure of “American Dream” is the value of the material goods Americans have accumulated. The dilemma is the consistent belief that they can live beyond their means. Like most other capitalist forms, consumerism is concerned with short-term profits without consideration for the future effects of wealth distribution due to overspending. If a household’s income is stagnant or decreasing, but its consumption is increasing, that means the people are borrowing: taking out home equity loans, or maxing out credit cards. Statistics show that as median incomes have stagnated since the turn of the century, household debts have exploded.
Black Friday is the epitome of capitalist, consumerist America. This outlandish practice has practically attained itself the iconic national status.. Black Friday is the Friday following Thanksgiving Day. It's regarded as the beginning of the Christmas shopping season in the US, and most major retailers open very early and offer promotional sales. On this day, stores open at 4 a.m. so that rioting shoppers can buy a superfluous number of products at prices that are relatively cheaper than usual.
Apparently the very individualism is being brilliantly used by big business to collectively herd Americans persuading them to be extravagantly buy what they don' really need!
6
IT'S SIMPLE . . .
as the U. S. is considered the most religious country in the Western World ... actually most pray and are preyed to and by greed and materialism.
Sunday at church has been moved to the mall.
as the U. S. is considered the most religious country in the Western World ... actually most pray and are preyed to and by greed and materialism.
Sunday at church has been moved to the mall.
6
With freedom comes responsibility. I'm sure this saw has made the rounds since the creation of the United States; but until our modern Americans connect the two sides of freedom, we will continue to see (or witness) the morass we are in.
43
Cohen is over-generalizing. Yes, most European countries have better infrastructure and consume less, but that doesn't mean that they are less individualistic or innovative than the US.
Northern European countries like Sweden, Germany, and Switzerland easily beat the US in terms of patents per capita. They also have shiner infrastructure and a better social safety net, but anyone who has ever lived in a Germanic country knows that people there are not nearly as friendly and helpful as Americans. As a matter of fact, many Northern Europeans don't see a point in helping others or giving generously to charity, because they think that their taxes are already paying for that.
In my experience, Europeans are just as individualistic and cutthroat as Americans. The real cultural difference is that they are, in general, more pragmatic and less idealistic than Americans, and that they have learned the hard way that inequality and poverty lead to political disaster.
Europe's social safety nets were designed to stymie communism, which is why Germany's welfare state dates back to the 1880s and Otto von Bismarck, who was anything but a bleeding heart liberal. This kind of pragmatism has defined Europe since the end of WWII, whereas Americans are still trying to build the city on a hill. This may create more buzz and positive energy, but also leads to ideological conflicts that paralyze society and lead, among other things, to rotten infrastructure.
Northern European countries like Sweden, Germany, and Switzerland easily beat the US in terms of patents per capita. They also have shiner infrastructure and a better social safety net, but anyone who has ever lived in a Germanic country knows that people there are not nearly as friendly and helpful as Americans. As a matter of fact, many Northern Europeans don't see a point in helping others or giving generously to charity, because they think that their taxes are already paying for that.
In my experience, Europeans are just as individualistic and cutthroat as Americans. The real cultural difference is that they are, in general, more pragmatic and less idealistic than Americans, and that they have learned the hard way that inequality and poverty lead to political disaster.
Europe's social safety nets were designed to stymie communism, which is why Germany's welfare state dates back to the 1880s and Otto von Bismarck, who was anything but a bleeding heart liberal. This kind of pragmatism has defined Europe since the end of WWII, whereas Americans are still trying to build the city on a hill. This may create more buzz and positive energy, but also leads to ideological conflicts that paralyze society and lead, among other things, to rotten infrastructure.
111
Having lived for many years in Germany, I object to EBurgett's stereotypical characterization of the people as less friendly than Americans. They have a different style, to be sure--a more reserved public face--but like normal people in normal cultures everywhere, of course they are friendly and helpful. Another commenter mentioned New Yorkers offering help on the street; I've experienced this both in New York and in Germany. Yet New York and the North in general are often pictured as unfriendly because they're not grinnin' an' wishin' y'all a nahce day ever' whipstitch. The point is that the expression of friendliness may vary from culture to culture. Moreover, the appearance of friendliness is superficial and subjective. Texas used to have signs along the road (no longer, probably because of the cost of replacing the ones that were stolen) that said, "Drive friendly." There was a reason for that.
2
The City Beautiful movement, which created public parks in our major cities, the Arts and Crafts architectural movement, Beaux Arts, Prairie Style - we have plenty of public spaces. Those public spaces he speaks of were likely created hundreds of years ago - Italian piazzas, perhaps 19th century grand boulevards. Go to the new growth, the suburbs of Paris, the speculative developments in Spain, and one finds the Europe that represents contemporary Europeans. The ugliest American architecture - the International Style on our college campuses and dull corporate HQs - had socialist roots in the Bauhaus movement, a desire for equalizing simplicity. They rejected the decadence of the Art Nouveau. If you read Adolf Loos, you'll find him glowing about all things American - the mountain hiking anti-Roman naturalism, the easy comfort and simplicity of our rocking chairs (designed to be leaned back without accident), and the aforementioned movements.
Europe under the Euro is a ponzi scheme, with all the jobs going to Germany, all the debt going to S. Europe. It's beginning to come unraveled.
But I agree about the excess of our consumer culture - not because it makes everyone fat, so much as it's driven by a hollowness, depression, a lack of vitality due to meaningless work. And it ruins the earth. But is the solution more of a safety net? I'm of the mind that a lower cost of living would help people not feel so trapped. We ought bust the trusts.
Europe under the Euro is a ponzi scheme, with all the jobs going to Germany, all the debt going to S. Europe. It's beginning to come unraveled.
But I agree about the excess of our consumer culture - not because it makes everyone fat, so much as it's driven by a hollowness, depression, a lack of vitality due to meaningless work. And it ruins the earth. But is the solution more of a safety net? I'm of the mind that a lower cost of living would help people not feel so trapped. We ought bust the trusts.
2
What is this guy talking about?
1
Not mentioned is the suburban sprawl endemic to the U.S., which is the result of a mentality where you consume and move on, leaving mess behind. Contrast this with European cities that arecenturies old but still pleasant, given a process of continuous renewal.
5
Good job, Mr. Cohen.
An outsized belief in and reliance on individualism, coupled with a sense of entitlement born out of a warped idea of liberty, has created a country of lazy whiners who want "the gubmint" out of their lives until their "rights" are negatively affected.
A largely unshared experience in two world wars is part of the problem too, I agree. Having spent some time in other parts of the world, I also see things differently at home than my fellow "Amurricans" who hold us up as some sort of gold standard, when in fact we have an awful lot to learn.
We have let the deaths of about 3,000 Americans (as tragic as it was, and it was tragic) so influence our worldview that we can no longer be objective about anything. Try losing 20 million or more. Watch your entire country get decimated and its very existence threatened with destruction by aggressor nations. Live through the pulverizing and grinding experience of global war in your front yard and then you'll gain perspective.
We've become soft and bloated, ignorant and oafish, fearful and defiant, but we suffer from a sort of reverse body dysmorphia. We see ourselves as muscular and intellectual, full of hubris and undeserved expectations about our power.
Worse than that, we have violated the ideals upon which our nation were founded (even though those ideals weren't even in practice at the time of its founding), and most of us probably don't have an understanding of them anyway.
It's just sad.
An outsized belief in and reliance on individualism, coupled with a sense of entitlement born out of a warped idea of liberty, has created a country of lazy whiners who want "the gubmint" out of their lives until their "rights" are negatively affected.
A largely unshared experience in two world wars is part of the problem too, I agree. Having spent some time in other parts of the world, I also see things differently at home than my fellow "Amurricans" who hold us up as some sort of gold standard, when in fact we have an awful lot to learn.
We have let the deaths of about 3,000 Americans (as tragic as it was, and it was tragic) so influence our worldview that we can no longer be objective about anything. Try losing 20 million or more. Watch your entire country get decimated and its very existence threatened with destruction by aggressor nations. Live through the pulverizing and grinding experience of global war in your front yard and then you'll gain perspective.
We've become soft and bloated, ignorant and oafish, fearful and defiant, but we suffer from a sort of reverse body dysmorphia. We see ourselves as muscular and intellectual, full of hubris and undeserved expectations about our power.
Worse than that, we have violated the ideals upon which our nation were founded (even though those ideals weren't even in practice at the time of its founding), and most of us probably don't have an understanding of them anyway.
It's just sad.
13
When a U.S. ambassador was asked on return from an assignment to a European country for his views, he smiled 'Americans are more laid back'. He always appreciates his visits to various capital cities, and when I asked a French parent about his artistic views, it was explained they reflected his Viennese background, true to his nature, an admirer of his.
He never forgot what nearly happened to him as an adolescent in flight from the prison camps of WWII, and it is the memory of the ship of refugees sailing past the Statue of Liberty where he first caught sight of New York City, he pledged his oath to the City and the Country that welcomed him.
'New York has become a Third World place!' he shouted in the mid-90s, picking up his pen to write urgently of the need to rebuild our Country adding that it would lead to more job creation. This was well received in Washington under the title of 'Infrastructure', while the majority of us were asleep and a party taking place.
America was ill prepared for a massive recession, sending many of us into a spiral. We have yet to determine the full impact on our behavior and how it will affect our younger generation, but as I like to tell my elderly brother 'We shall always have Paris', returning to New York City on separate planes with a sigh of relief.
Both born in the U.S.A., our heart and spirit may wander at times but we always come home in the end.
He never forgot what nearly happened to him as an adolescent in flight from the prison camps of WWII, and it is the memory of the ship of refugees sailing past the Statue of Liberty where he first caught sight of New York City, he pledged his oath to the City and the Country that welcomed him.
'New York has become a Third World place!' he shouted in the mid-90s, picking up his pen to write urgently of the need to rebuild our Country adding that it would lead to more job creation. This was well received in Washington under the title of 'Infrastructure', while the majority of us were asleep and a party taking place.
America was ill prepared for a massive recession, sending many of us into a spiral. We have yet to determine the full impact on our behavior and how it will affect our younger generation, but as I like to tell my elderly brother 'We shall always have Paris', returning to New York City on separate planes with a sigh of relief.
Both born in the U.S.A., our heart and spirit may wander at times but we always come home in the end.
1
Muslim cultures in the Middle East have trouble coping with reality. So, it seems, does our culture, and particularly its conservative parts.
7
With all the vices of excess if America only continues to retain its innovative genius- evolved through long tradition of accommodation of diversity and talent- and keeps trying adaptive ways to deal with disruptive change, it could still prove the worth of the American model of pinning hopes on individualism over that of Europe relying on state facilitated social solidarity which seems more a myth now than reality.
1
Oh Please. How much of America's "creative energy" comes from immigrants, many of whom were raised in cultures that have nothing like America's dedication to individuality? How many come here for the opportunity of getting their children a decent public education or a chance to go to college? How many graduated from the highly competitive elite universities of their home countries and chose to live in a place that has much more material wealth?
3
America is "immigrants".
Most immigrants to America are not Europeans, but the poor of third world countries. But to say that all impoverished people want to come to America is to belie the fact that the Europeans are being overwhelmed by immigration as I write this.
2
DebbieR.
Increasingly so, and since the times my British ancestors arrived in the 17th century to MD. In the meantime joining my Senegalese friend in celebrating the graduation at Berkeley where her eldest daughter on scholarship has become the first Ph.D in her family.
Perhaps my friend who has never taken a short-cut in her life navigates on the honor code, and although she was washing the laundry in her village river in early adolescence, she was patient when hard at work to meet the needs of the international humanitarian community and its children, she took my call where I was throwing a tantrum over a deficient dish-washer.
Sometimes it is on such ironies in life that great friendships are established among people.
Increasingly so, and since the times my British ancestors arrived in the 17th century to MD. In the meantime joining my Senegalese friend in celebrating the graduation at Berkeley where her eldest daughter on scholarship has become the first Ph.D in her family.
Perhaps my friend who has never taken a short-cut in her life navigates on the honor code, and although she was washing the laundry in her village river in early adolescence, she was patient when hard at work to meet the needs of the international humanitarian community and its children, she took my call where I was throwing a tantrum over a deficient dish-washer.
Sometimes it is on such ironies in life that great friendships are established among people.
1
Many thoughts, but to start: “Americans eat alone while at work, alone while commuting to work in the car, alone at the food court while shopping, alone at home while watching TV, and alone in front of the refrigerator both before and after normal mealtime.” - this isn't a reflection of rugged individualism. Generally: Our European colleagues take time to eat away from their desks, their commutes are generally shorter, so they take time to eat in the mornings and are home to eat at the table in the evenings. They don't work through vacations, don't work into the evening, etc. Infrastructure helps, but culture rules.
As to "most Americans", I must disagree. At least for this American and most that I know, we don't want excessive fuel or food. We long for efficiency and the opportunity to enjoy quality over quantity. We long for a nation that accepts science and lets its actions be guided by fact rather than political whims. Excess is not the corollary to energy and vitality - look at what we accomplished as a nation during a period in which todays' excesses were unheard of (as were CEO salaries 300X that of employees): space travel, interstate highways, bridges, tunnels, buildings, computers; the list goes on. It's since we allowed naked greed to rule our nation that we've devolved to what these anecdotes say we are.
We can change. We can grow. We must, or our children and their children will inherit only nightmares.
As to "most Americans", I must disagree. At least for this American and most that I know, we don't want excessive fuel or food. We long for efficiency and the opportunity to enjoy quality over quantity. We long for a nation that accepts science and lets its actions be guided by fact rather than political whims. Excess is not the corollary to energy and vitality - look at what we accomplished as a nation during a period in which todays' excesses were unheard of (as were CEO salaries 300X that of employees): space travel, interstate highways, bridges, tunnels, buildings, computers; the list goes on. It's since we allowed naked greed to rule our nation that we've devolved to what these anecdotes say we are.
We can change. We can grow. We must, or our children and their children will inherit only nightmares.
32
Did you ever meet Arnold Bernard Burns, the recently retired C.E.O? I passed by him earlier this evening, sitting in his favorite armchair at the country club, his thumb bright red and fat as a radish from gout, he ordered another Bourbon.
He hangs out there before going home to dinner because his wife has him on a diet. A military man when young, he went on to an honorable career, and his opinion is much valued when he goes to dinner with close friends.
He was just checking a little snippet in the newspaper about how the U.S. Government at the end of WWII was debating how to attack Japan, and what he read made his jaw drop.
'Old history, my man, time to let it go', he is affectionately slapped on the shoulder and goes home to sit at the head of the table. His driver, a younger man, says that in the end the enemies one fights are all the same.
Mr. Burns is always hungry, nobody seems to care about anything, and when told he is brooding when thinking of old stories, he decides that there is still a moral issue that has not been addressed. To fill his emotional void, an ongoing feeling of emptiness, he finishes his torte while wondering if he might ask his wife for another slice after she has finished pouring the coffee.
Mr. Cohen, I lifted the above from a short story by Evan S. Connell, depicting it as best as I could, but that incurable American excess for this reader is an increasing emotional void that some of us may be feeling.
He hangs out there before going home to dinner because his wife has him on a diet. A military man when young, he went on to an honorable career, and his opinion is much valued when he goes to dinner with close friends.
He was just checking a little snippet in the newspaper about how the U.S. Government at the end of WWII was debating how to attack Japan, and what he read made his jaw drop.
'Old history, my man, time to let it go', he is affectionately slapped on the shoulder and goes home to sit at the head of the table. His driver, a younger man, says that in the end the enemies one fights are all the same.
Mr. Burns is always hungry, nobody seems to care about anything, and when told he is brooding when thinking of old stories, he decides that there is still a moral issue that has not been addressed. To fill his emotional void, an ongoing feeling of emptiness, he finishes his torte while wondering if he might ask his wife for another slice after she has finished pouring the coffee.
Mr. Cohen, I lifted the above from a short story by Evan S. Connell, depicting it as best as I could, but that incurable American excess for this reader is an increasing emotional void that some of us may be feeling.
11
Is it really individualism? Or is it ignorance of how society provides all the things these so-called "individuals" want and need? The myth of the "self-made man" serves those who inherit their wealth and diminishes the very idea of a social contract. Americans are not so much "individuals" a deniers of reality. They can't handle the truth of their own dependence on others.
27
I got stuck right at the head lines.
The US such a diverse country, thus I have never understood what part of it represents "America". Perhaps Indiana, but I have never lived there although my aunt, who did, claims it is as close as it gets.
The US such a diverse country, thus I have never understood what part of it represents "America". Perhaps Indiana, but I have never lived there although my aunt, who did, claims it is as close as it gets.
2
Talesofgenji
It is not for this New Yorker to interpret the US for others. Nebraska is my choice to visit as 'The Heart of America', and I would find this far more interesting than a tour of Venice at night.
Brought up in Europe, I can try to bring a flavor of the best of it back to the States, while feeling a foreigner here, there and everywhere, mistaken for a tourist in my own City. The British author Quentin Crisp loved America and found his nest in New York. He was the first to say that individualism comes at a high price, and that it is far easier to belong to the Majority.
It is rare that I turn on the T.V. but when I want to assess the mood of the Country, a Fox much poxed upon always delivers.
It is not for this New Yorker to interpret the US for others. Nebraska is my choice to visit as 'The Heart of America', and I would find this far more interesting than a tour of Venice at night.
Brought up in Europe, I can try to bring a flavor of the best of it back to the States, while feeling a foreigner here, there and everywhere, mistaken for a tourist in my own City. The British author Quentin Crisp loved America and found his nest in New York. He was the first to say that individualism comes at a high price, and that it is far easier to belong to the Majority.
It is rare that I turn on the T.V. but when I want to assess the mood of the Country, a Fox much poxed upon always delivers.
Riding the Air train from JFK after returning from a trip to Europe, I observed an excited couple taking pictures of themselves on the train and out the window as the train left the station. As the train headed towards Jamaica station, I saw their expressions change from jubilation to confusion. They had to be thinking "this can't be America." I am sure they, like most first-time visitors to this country had many experiences that made them re-think their idea of the US.
We are a largely impoverished and segregated society that refuses to address things as basic as repairing streets, updating bridges and tunnels, curbing pollution, educating children. A common retort this argument on the right is "but we have the opportunity to be rich." It's as if this country is one big lottery, which is statically impossible to win. Well, I saw plenty of Audis and BMWs on the highways of France and Italy and they could not have all been visiting Americans.
But, lets keep pretending we are #1 as our gas guzzling SUVs navigate through potholes on our way to the next strip mall to buy our processed food we will eat while working a low-paying job in an effort to pay off student loans that exceed the value of many first homes. We got it good.
We are a largely impoverished and segregated society that refuses to address things as basic as repairing streets, updating bridges and tunnels, curbing pollution, educating children. A common retort this argument on the right is "but we have the opportunity to be rich." It's as if this country is one big lottery, which is statically impossible to win. Well, I saw plenty of Audis and BMWs on the highways of France and Italy and they could not have all been visiting Americans.
But, lets keep pretending we are #1 as our gas guzzling SUVs navigate through potholes on our way to the next strip mall to buy our processed food we will eat while working a low-paying job in an effort to pay off student loans that exceed the value of many first homes. We got it good.
46
Americans love freedom in the abstract, but that is nostalgia. In reality they are subservient to control and exploitation by hierarchical feudal organizations that do not answer to anyone. Those would be the corporations that employ them, provide everything they need, spy on them, control the public discourse, . . .
They have no say in what these organizations do. But they don't complain about that. Instead they fear the only powerful organization that does answer to them: their own government.
They have no say in what these organizations do. But they don't complain about that. Instead they fear the only powerful organization that does answer to them: their own government.
27
If we force Europeans onto the Procrustean bed of American political divisions, it seems clear that most Europeans have taken the path most similar to that of the Democratic Party, while Americans--at least in their local and state governments--have predominantly followed the Republican way.
We in the US will not have respectable roads, parks, and other amenities of public life until Democrats wrest control of Congress from the Republicans. I suspect there is not one Republican in Congress who would vote to cut our military budget by 10% and use the savings to make a small start on renewing our infrastructure.
We in the US will not have respectable roads, parks, and other amenities of public life until Democrats wrest control of Congress from the Republicans. I suspect there is not one Republican in Congress who would vote to cut our military budget by 10% and use the savings to make a small start on renewing our infrastructure.
19
Politicians and pundits like to criticize and weaken our unions, take away collective bargaining rights and then tell us how we love being "rugged individualists".
And BTW, the poll findings Cohen summarizes in the first paragraph are practically meaningless. Europeans know firsthand the security of having a safety net if the bottom falls out - to Americans it's an abstract concept, one that's derided almost daily by the corporate media and politicians.
And BTW, the poll findings Cohen summarizes in the first paragraph are practically meaningless. Europeans know firsthand the security of having a safety net if the bottom falls out - to Americans it's an abstract concept, one that's derided almost daily by the corporate media and politicians.
14
I travel, happily, to Europe for business and/or pleasure annually but I am not at all convinced by this column. Mr Cohen does not comment on the millions who live in the shabby public housing which rings the big European cities (not the quaint, clean, historic centers) nor the very high unemployment, especially among the young. Nothing about the almost nonexistent level of economic growth in most countries and the near collapse of Spain, Italy, and Greece. Not a word about the long waits to see a doctor in Britain and other places nor about the very high prices of fuel, groceries, and housing which lead to a generally lower standard of living. More and more, I find the Times writers to exhibit a kind of bitterness toward the American people because they don't seem to share the politics of the Times. I think this idealized paean to the European lifestyle is part and parcel of this mindset.
13
Uhhh, come to California if you want to experience Europe in the U.S. "We" are certainly willing to pay the higher price for energy because Moonbeam and Arnie said we were. I have the power bill to prove it.
3
My mom always said freedom means "you're free to be dumb"...and here we are.
8
The European paradise that you have written about is changing this very minute. Uncontrolled and unstoppable numbers of migrants from Africa and the Middle East wash up on European shores, the economies of Spain, Ireland, Portugal and Greece are in disarray with large numbers of young people unemployed, and don't forget that NATO which protects the continent from the Russian bear, is just another name for the US military.
And lastly, American did not start two world wars, but finished them. So I for one will take our"dirty streets" and crumbling infra-structure over what appears to be the disintegrating European Union.
P.S: Why are you here rather than there Mr. Cohen?
And lastly, American did not start two world wars, but finished them. So I for one will take our"dirty streets" and crumbling infra-structure over what appears to be the disintegrating European Union.
P.S: Why are you here rather than there Mr. Cohen?
13
Roger Cohen is not necessarily taking up the banner for Europe, or America exclusively, but appears to be commenting with his insight and sharp perspective of the ways we live now in the USA. The English author Trollope had a fit on returning from colonized countries and sat down to write a scathing portrait of British society, one which remains relevant and contemporary to America. Greed and Grief.
1
And yet you chose to become an American citizen Roger. What were you thinking?
5
America was another country way back when Roger chose to become an American citizen and now he's doing his civic duty trying to change it by the influence of his opinions. Remember "civic duty"?
1
Too much of Cohen's column depends on opinion-poll results. "Americans, in their majority", he writes: says who? This or that "survey". At the state - rather than the national - level there is plenty of evidence to contradict any and all of his conclusions. His personal impressions of America's crumbling infrastructure are harder to refute, but does even that result from rampant individualism or from the misallocation of resources from public goods to foreign wars?
2
You say "America is more alive." -- Yes, in the way that those who were wealthy enough to be in Davos when it was a sanitorium, and when they were in very dangerous stages of TB (about whom T. Mann wrote so well from the catastrophe of what happened to that Belle Epoque), looked to be blossoming and in the peak of ruddy good health. And as for your recent commentary on European ugliness re: migrants, you seem to have drunk the milk of amnesia on what NAFTA has done to the U.S.'s southern border, where destitute people, disproportionately women, who never experienced the luxuries of Davos, have been dying there in the cities and deserts by the tens of thousands for two decades -- to which the U.S.'s response has been world-denounced cruel and unusual punishment, detention, and deportation for those fleeing from the disasters the U.S. created over a century. Thanks for revealing your chutzpahdik hypocrisy, all for the self-serving reason of repeating ad nauseum how great the U.S.A. is. You have a habit Hannah Arendt described so well when she spoke of how a fierce nationalist in one country will become a fierce nationalist wherever they go. This attitude is vain, preening, overweening, and indefensible. Since it is done for a price, it is a kind of prostitution -- a very dangerous profession for those who actually sell their bodies, instead of getting rich by selling their souls.
1
I agree, Deport Illegal Immigrants!
Why do hordes of people come, or try to come, here if so awful?
Americans would not accept the price tag for a European-style welfare state. Would they pay $8 a gallon for gasoline? How about a 20% VAT on every last dollar you spend? Most Americans would not drive the Euro-style diesel-powered minicars that are ubiquitous there. Income tax rates that people here would consider confiscatory are common. That vaunted French single payer health insurance system? It ain't -- you're on the hook for 30% of the bill, and guess how most French of my acquaintance cover that 30%? They have PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE plans, either from their employment or from (rather expensive) private purchase.
Yeah, European countries have a robust welfare state, but it comes at a very high cost to the individual.
Yeah, European countries have a robust welfare state, but it comes at a very high cost to the individual.
10
Thoreau wrote that a man is rich in proportion to the number of things he can afford to let alone. I've always equated "rich" with "free" in interpreting this, so that not having to worry about having access to health care, or shelter, or food, or education, is "wealth". Some of us are fortunate to be able to have this access through our own work or savings (or inheritances). Most Europeans seem to understand that this is not always sufficient. Fewer Americans seem to.
12
I agree with the writers comment about the re entry syndrome coming back to America. What I notice is the noise. Europe is generally quiet. Everything here is loud, people yelling, television blasting, etc. Several years ago I was in France with a relative who needed an emergency root canal. The wonderful dentist apologized to us regarding the fact that a root canal costs one quarter of what it does here. It was amazing. If we don't get our act together soon and look out for the whole country, rather than this pathological bashing we do on each other, this country is going to continue to have crumbling infrastructure, exorbitant costs for education and medical treatment, and it's not going to be pretty. My favorite comment on this thread was from the lady in Texas that said as soon as you get out of the urban areas with the public housing cheats you can fund some really good looking people in Santa Barbara. Hooray for American exceptionalism!
6
The concept of "individual self-reliance" is a romantic pre-industrial, agrarian fantasy that no longer applies to modern life in any first world nation. Our lives are highly interconnected and interdependent. We as individuals can't manage even a small portion of our complex lives and we depend more and more on a wider variety of people of all skill levels to work together to ensure that food is on our tables, fuel is in our cars (which have to be manufactured and maintained by others), that we have healthy bodies with a roof over our heads, etc. With the minor exception of the off-grid, low-impact rural life that a few brave souls lead, we need others to supply even our basic needs.
If you want to be a rugged individualist, build your own home out of your own trees, create your own water and energy supply, grow your own food and build your own internet while you're at it.
We as a society need to learn to peacefully live and work with one-another or the community, goods and conveniences that we treasure most will vanish.
If you want to be a rugged individualist, build your own home out of your own trees, create your own water and energy supply, grow your own food and build your own internet while you're at it.
We as a society need to learn to peacefully live and work with one-another or the community, goods and conveniences that we treasure most will vanish.
7
Excellent words of advice. I like the comment of one of the oldest men in America at 115 when asked the secret of his longevity, looked bluntly into the camera and replied 'I did not have children'. It made my childless aunt at 102 in the country, laugh a bit although I took this opportunity to remind her that I was her favorite niece.
Our mistrust of govt authority is cultivated, paving the way for corporate influence over govt, instead of voter majorities. Thus our wider economic inequality.
Our rw builds on our founding ideals---no king or high born lord can tell us what to do, we didn’t have peasants and masters. THUS, we have meritocracy and equal chance. This lets the public’s guard down, while other high hurdles are erected, behind the smokescreen of founding ideals and free enterprise. The S. Court distorted our 1st amendment –money equals speech.
This is the contrast that must be spelled out, with concrete life comparisons to similar people in social democracies with more protections from economic predators.
In place of aristocracy have an uber class of money and influence. Countries of old Europe have less class stratification than the ‘classless’ America. In our history, only men of substantial property, were allowed to vote at first, then gradually men without property. In 20th C, we had the world’s most prosperous middle class.
Now due to our big money elections, blessed by the S. Court, it is precisely the white males with "substantial property", in the form of huge corporate wealth, who have the most influence on our lawmaking and 3 branches. In effect, we've reverted back to the 18th C pre democracy.. What we had was freedom from a monarch, but not a democracy.
Now, everybody votes, but no nation has such billionaire directed politics. Are we too backward for for democracy?
Our rw builds on our founding ideals---no king or high born lord can tell us what to do, we didn’t have peasants and masters. THUS, we have meritocracy and equal chance. This lets the public’s guard down, while other high hurdles are erected, behind the smokescreen of founding ideals and free enterprise. The S. Court distorted our 1st amendment –money equals speech.
This is the contrast that must be spelled out, with concrete life comparisons to similar people in social democracies with more protections from economic predators.
In place of aristocracy have an uber class of money and influence. Countries of old Europe have less class stratification than the ‘classless’ America. In our history, only men of substantial property, were allowed to vote at first, then gradually men without property. In 20th C, we had the world’s most prosperous middle class.
Now due to our big money elections, blessed by the S. Court, it is precisely the white males with "substantial property", in the form of huge corporate wealth, who have the most influence on our lawmaking and 3 branches. In effect, we've reverted back to the 18th C pre democracy.. What we had was freedom from a monarch, but not a democracy.
Now, everybody votes, but no nation has such billionaire directed politics. Are we too backward for for democracy?
5
Whether Democracy can work in America was a topic addressed in the 19th century by a Frenchman Alexis de Tocqueville, born into royalty. It might be of interest for some of us to know what he thought and to read some of his exchanges with his own countrymen, but he is still being quoted in our Country today, and not far from Paris in a quiet small family cemetery his first cousin and childhood friend is at rest. The plot needs a trim but I am letting my Irish nature take over and turn it into a rose garden.
1
Your neighbor uses his backyard as a shooting range and carries on a dog training home businesses. His rugged individualism interferes with your rugged individualism for a quiet, solitary life. Who wins? A gunfight? Maybe laws? But wait- laws interfere with rugged individualism!
Rugged individualism is a zero sum game.
Rugged individualism is a zero sum game.
8
Sure that the Euro-penchant for dependency on a collective rather than on oneself doesn’t have more to do with why we deliver more patents to the world than they … than on a conviction that a “prudent safeguard and guarantor of human decency”, whatever the heck that is, is more important than prosperity at levels above basic subsistence? Roger’s notion boils down to “let’s rally around a programmatic solution because we harbor such monumental self-doubt”.
Yeeeech. Thank goodness the French built Paris and the English London, among my favorite grand cities in the world, BEFORE they transformed themselves into such exemplars of milquetoast. Maggie Thatcher is spinning in her grave at a speed that approaches orbital escape velocity.
I’d suggest that our “creative churn, vitality and energy” are NOT intrinsic to vices one sees developing only recently – ask the shade of Alexis de Tocqueville, who noted our virtues in his “Democracy in America” 180 YEARS ago. In those days, Americans tended to be spare and ornrier than even now – and there was even less reliance on a collective that didn’t actually exist anywhere.
These days, we may be fat, grumpy and self-involved, but the whole world still looks to us for that better mousetrap.
Yeeeech. Thank goodness the French built Paris and the English London, among my favorite grand cities in the world, BEFORE they transformed themselves into such exemplars of milquetoast. Maggie Thatcher is spinning in her grave at a speed that approaches orbital escape velocity.
I’d suggest that our “creative churn, vitality and energy” are NOT intrinsic to vices one sees developing only recently – ask the shade of Alexis de Tocqueville, who noted our virtues in his “Democracy in America” 180 YEARS ago. In those days, Americans tended to be spare and ornrier than even now – and there was even less reliance on a collective that didn’t actually exist anywhere.
These days, we may be fat, grumpy and self-involved, but the whole world still looks to us for that better mousetrap.
4
So, is this an implicit critique of American "excess" by Francophile Cohen, or is it explicit? I am not sure. Cohen is, I guess, an American, but like insecure American aristocrats of the 19th Century, Cohen seems to find merit in European collectivism and problems with American individualism. Never mind the fact that Europe has seemingly not created a new technology since the British (wait...are they Europeans?) invented radar in the 1940s. Also, forget about Europe's increasing geopolitical irrelevancy, based on free riding off the Pentagon's budget and a denial of renewed Russian imperialism. Europe has been a living museum basically since 1945. President Obama, while generally a foreign policy incompetent, was right to create an Asian pivot. Europe, like the Met, will always be a nice place to visit. But you would not want to take anything those mummified people do seriously.
3
"A living museum since 1945"? Really?
1
Chris Thomas
Thank you for some daily reminders. The first to call my family friend at Versailles, which is under siege by Americans for the month of August, and to remind her that her view is better than mine of the Concrete Jungle. She enjoys tormenting me with her descriptions of sunsets.
She still brings up the time when she was visiting the Palace and next to her was standing the former President in his blue jeans. The likelihood of a US President on view at the Met is highly unlikely was my response, which reminds me of an invitation to see the Van Gogh exhibition before it closes today with an Irish-American friend.
It is true that my friend is feeling mummified due to her advanced age, but when I first brought the Recession to her attention in 2008, she replied we lived the War with a sigh. We were very young at the time, she added, and we stood up from the rubble without a future.
Off to call her since Paris has taken off like a dule of doves, and remind her that she will soon be taking a holiday by the Spanish sea in September.
Thank you for some daily reminders. The first to call my family friend at Versailles, which is under siege by Americans for the month of August, and to remind her that her view is better than mine of the Concrete Jungle. She enjoys tormenting me with her descriptions of sunsets.
She still brings up the time when she was visiting the Palace and next to her was standing the former President in his blue jeans. The likelihood of a US President on view at the Met is highly unlikely was my response, which reminds me of an invitation to see the Van Gogh exhibition before it closes today with an Irish-American friend.
It is true that my friend is feeling mummified due to her advanced age, but when I first brought the Recession to her attention in 2008, she replied we lived the War with a sigh. We were very young at the time, she added, and we stood up from the rubble without a future.
Off to call her since Paris has taken off like a dule of doves, and remind her that she will soon be taking a holiday by the Spanish sea in September.
1
"[Are] America’s virtues ... intrinsic to these vices[?]" Unfortunately, yes.
This intrinsic, apparent cognitive dissonance, assuming virtuous folks would sacrifice for collective benefit has worsened with the Tea Party movement.
Danes, Swedes & others accept heavy taxation without grumbling for the collective benefit of inherently less fortunate. Americans also did so for decades before the Reagan revolution. Faith in government was high then as well. In fact there was an excess of taxation and dependency. Somehow there was a perception that blacks were unduly dependent. Solution: Starve the beast, which as taxation or "busing" went overboard. Now, if you are a Republican candidate for anything, "flattening & lowering" of taxes is the magic solution for all economic problems! In today's debate about all of them faithfully recited it.
A simple reality is that the lower the top (federal) tax rate the greater the financial hardship on lower income folks, which is about inversely correlated with ones income. Maybe this taxation "101" ought to be taught in school. Indeed as federal individual tax burden on the public substantially lowered since the Reagan era, local taxes which heavily fall on lower income groups, as well as payroll taxes (which are levied only on up to $117,000 in income now) went up. Total payroll tax revenue & total federal individual tax revenue reached almost to parity!
Therefore GREATER PROGRESSIVE taxation is necessary to reduce inequality.
This intrinsic, apparent cognitive dissonance, assuming virtuous folks would sacrifice for collective benefit has worsened with the Tea Party movement.
Danes, Swedes & others accept heavy taxation without grumbling for the collective benefit of inherently less fortunate. Americans also did so for decades before the Reagan revolution. Faith in government was high then as well. In fact there was an excess of taxation and dependency. Somehow there was a perception that blacks were unduly dependent. Solution: Starve the beast, which as taxation or "busing" went overboard. Now, if you are a Republican candidate for anything, "flattening & lowering" of taxes is the magic solution for all economic problems! In today's debate about all of them faithfully recited it.
A simple reality is that the lower the top (federal) tax rate the greater the financial hardship on lower income folks, which is about inversely correlated with ones income. Maybe this taxation "101" ought to be taught in school. Indeed as federal individual tax burden on the public substantially lowered since the Reagan era, local taxes which heavily fall on lower income groups, as well as payroll taxes (which are levied only on up to $117,000 in income now) went up. Total payroll tax revenue & total federal individual tax revenue reached almost to parity!
Therefore GREATER PROGRESSIVE taxation is necessary to reduce inequality.
4
A.G, yes let's teach about taxes in school, but only if we report actual results and not just rhetoric.
In 2011 (CBO data), the top 20% of households by all income sources paid 70% of all federal taxes. The lowest 60% of households paid just over 12% of all taxes, including payroll taxes. And you do know that the cap applies only to social security and not medicare, right? And that social security benefits are likewise capped, and greatly reduced for higher income retirees?
In 2011 (CBO data), the top 20% of households by all income sources paid 70% of all federal taxes. The lowest 60% of households paid just over 12% of all taxes, including payroll taxes. And you do know that the cap applies only to social security and not medicare, right? And that social security benefits are likewise capped, and greatly reduced for higher income retirees?
1
"70% of all federal taxes" is the stock Republican mantra. The trouble is the poor will be struggling even more if the current Republican line of "flatter lower federal tax rate" is applied. To make their subsistence existence still harsher, the federal taxes will be even more "plutocrat-fierndly" by the plutocrats, as the top hedge fund-managers paid just 15% on their $billion rakes. They hate it now because they now have to pay another 8.8%, including Medicare tax.
I would say the top 0.01% should pay 70% in federal income tax, on that portion of their incomes, in the neighborhood of >$25B in taxable income. In fact until the Reagan era if you made over about $1M, you paid at 70% rate on that portion of their incomes.
The real burden on the poor is the deceptive high sales taxes. The national average sales tax is over 9%, and still creeping up, which falls most heavily on the poor - the bottom fifth in incomes pays 7 times more in sales taxes than the top 1% as a share of their incomes.
Social security benefits are means tested to a great extent alright. Actually to reduce inequality, minimum wage should go up, initially subsidized by taxpayers until businesses can absorb it. And the first $10K should only pay 1% rate in payroll tax, then 2% for another $10K, in payroll tax; similarly the cap on it should be eliminated but over $500K the rate should come down to 2% & >$1M the rate should be just 1%, so that it would less unpalatable to the rich.
I would say the top 0.01% should pay 70% in federal income tax, on that portion of their incomes, in the neighborhood of >$25B in taxable income. In fact until the Reagan era if you made over about $1M, you paid at 70% rate on that portion of their incomes.
The real burden on the poor is the deceptive high sales taxes. The national average sales tax is over 9%, and still creeping up, which falls most heavily on the poor - the bottom fifth in incomes pays 7 times more in sales taxes than the top 1% as a share of their incomes.
Social security benefits are means tested to a great extent alright. Actually to reduce inequality, minimum wage should go up, initially subsidized by taxpayers until businesses can absorb it. And the first $10K should only pay 1% rate in payroll tax, then 2% for another $10K, in payroll tax; similarly the cap on it should be eliminated but over $500K the rate should come down to 2% & >$1M the rate should be just 1%, so that it would less unpalatable to the rich.
2
My late husband and I concluded long ago that the national anthem of the USA should be the 80's (I think) song by the Eagles - Take it to Limit.
"Put me on the highway, show me a sign and take it to the limit - one more time." The "one more time" is what makes it so perfectly American.
Good read, Mr. Cohen.
"Put me on the highway, show me a sign and take it to the limit - one more time." The "one more time" is what makes it so perfectly American.
Good read, Mr. Cohen.
4
Visit Newark NJ and then visit Bochum, Germany. Look at the difference between two has-been areas. The one is MUCH better than the other. Guess which. Then read the article again.
2
i would say the usa believe the MYTH of freedom to pursue life's goals without state interference it stronger. there is more freedom from devastating poverty, more freedom from not having access to health care at a reasonable price, more freedom from exorbitant education costs, more freedom to live a longer life and more freedom from violence in daily life in Europe--and several other countries too.......
4
Like you, Mr. Cohen, as a Francophile and recent traveler to other parts of Europe including six months in Germany, I found NYC dirty, loud and crumbling. The first few days back, I would sequester myself in the apartment, order through Fresh Direct and take taxis (though many drivers here are filthy with treating their car like a mobile living room; it's disgusting). HOWEVER, I found the French, Germans, Viennese, Belgians, and British corporate and service workers shockingly cold, robotic and factory-minded (order-takers). And they demonstrated very little warmth and community-mindedness - their mindset is that the government will take care of everything...or go without, no questions asked. This kind of "quiet" is disturbing coming from the US, even though I was not born in the US. Lastly, I agree with other readers that not all of our voices are being heard and big money continues to destroy this nation.
1
We, the American people, have been sold by big business and main stream media the concept that having more money and possessions will lead to happiness and fulfillment. Through our televisions we are told we do not measure up because our house isn't big enough or car isn't cool enough. We pay both exorbitant health care premiums that give us less and outrageous college tuition. We invented the Maglev train system but we do not have any operating here. Our infrastructure is falling apart but there is only money for more prisons (highest percentage of population incarcerated in the world). Our system definitely has flaws that counter some of the benefits.
Applying the law of diminishing returns exposes the fallacy of our system. If we could golf and ski every day it would be fun for awhile but soon it would feel like a job. Some think a house with an ocean view is a goal worth killing yourself or exploiting others for; however, after awhile, we do not even see the ocean. I love cheesecake, but if I eat a whole one, I get very sick!
Applying the law of diminishing returns exposes the fallacy of our system. If we could golf and ski every day it would be fun for awhile but soon it would feel like a job. Some think a house with an ocean view is a goal worth killing yourself or exploiting others for; however, after awhile, we do not even see the ocean. I love cheesecake, but if I eat a whole one, I get very sick!
129
That is not my impression of Americans. While they take pride in their believed independence and that the government is some kind of foreign interloper they seem quite subservient in other ways. They seem to be very subservient to other positions of power. Perhaps it is intensely competitive nature of American society that leads to the idolization of winners whether it be in wealth or sports. All societies have similar aspects but what tends differentiate them is what they emphasize. In the US it seems to be competition whether as an independent or climbing the corporate ladder. I doubt if you find for instance the extreme hierarchical structure found in many American high schools either based on wealth or sports in the schools of other countries. Similarly with business American workers seem to be much more compliant than other countries and any rebellion is more of the juvenile type rather than actually confronting the power structure. Many of the western states in their early development were dominated by corporations who controlled government for their own benefit. Even criminals were often allowed to dominate over the rights of individuals.
4
San Francisco is a great example what Cohen writes about. Even as the city becomes more and more expensive, its sidewalks are constantly littered with filth, garbage, trash and feces. Even as the tech-bros take over the city and drive the rents so high that no middle-income person can afford to live there, the homeless are camped out everywhere and panhandling. The MUNI and BART stations smell of urine. It's almost dystopian and a symptom of a weird sort of American indifference to the community -- even here in the most liberal of cities.
11
You could'nt be truer. Very succinctly put. When our country was discovered and people started making homesteads, individuality was a trait to be admired. But having set up a unique system of government, the first of it's kind - Democracy, the societal rules should have changed too. There is collective duty and collective responsibility. But our mindset is still that of the, 'Lone Ranger' There is a total disconnect. We have become the Ugly American - loud , big, brash with a vulgar display of wealth. It is no more - less is more but more is less. We don't seem to understand our own system of government while we thrust our system on peoples who don't want it. This individuality which is not in tandem with the present is why we are heading deeper and deeper into oligarchy. Soon will come a time when we just start shooting from our hips again. Only the NRA will be happy as a clam.
4
The evolution of human thought concerning wealth over the last 2,000 years:
Jesus, Matthew 19:24: "Again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."
Thoreau, Walden: “I went to the woods because I wished to...see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived...It is a fool's life, as they will find when they get to the end of it, if not before...they are employed, as it says in an old book, laying up treasures which moth and rust will corrupt and thieves break through and steal. It is a fool's life, as they will find when they get to the end of it, if not before.”
Edward Abbey (on Capitalism): "Growth for the sake of growth is the ideology of a cancer cell."
Donald Trump: "I'm worth 10 billion dollars..."
Jesus, Matthew 19:24: "Again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."
Thoreau, Walden: “I went to the woods because I wished to...see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived...It is a fool's life, as they will find when they get to the end of it, if not before...they are employed, as it says in an old book, laying up treasures which moth and rust will corrupt and thieves break through and steal. It is a fool's life, as they will find when they get to the end of it, if not before.”
Edward Abbey (on Capitalism): "Growth for the sake of growth is the ideology of a cancer cell."
Donald Trump: "I'm worth 10 billion dollars..."
7
A friend of mine whom I would describe as "moderate Republican" (if that is not an oxymoron!) lived in London for a number of years. While he was initially skeptical of the universal health care system, after a while he decided that it had 2 benefits: 1) the obvious one - health care for all but, more importantly, 2) what he noticed most was that, if you grow up in a society with the value of paying into a system that helps others, your brain and personality evolved differently. He thought that people genuinely had a more caring outlook towards other people in general.
6
Cohen makes too much of American obesity. Obesity rates for several European countries are very low, but two European countries have obesity rates almost as high as the U.S.: Great Britain and Hungary. Obesity rates are almost as high as the U.S. in Mexico, Chile, New Zealand, Canada, and Australia.
One should look at obesity rates among different ethnic groups in the U.S.
In short, Cohen's generalizations about American culture are glib, but his notion that Americans are less likely to trust the government than, say, the French is probably correct.
One should look at obesity rates among different ethnic groups in the U.S.
In short, Cohen's generalizations about American culture are glib, but his notion that Americans are less likely to trust the government than, say, the French is probably correct.
2
And, of course, Europe has been pleasantly peaceful these past 100 years...
3
This is nothing nerw, The Republicans today sound much like early 19th century "republicans" who tried to fight the War of 1812 "on the cheap" refusing to raise taxes to support an army, which was beaten soundly in every battle by the grossly outmanned British in Canada (yes, our grammer scholl texts glorify Jackson's victory at New Orleans because the British foolishly marched over open ground into prepared positions and were cut down by US artillery--a battle after the war ending Treaty of Ghent).
The English observers noted even then the overriding frenetic commercial nature of Americans together with the non-stop cons, swindles, and dishonesty, representative of the American national character today. From Bee Pollen to Madoff, American activity consists of hucksters. speculators & politicians, trying to get rich fast by depriving the unquestioning workers of their wages.
The English observers noted even then the overriding frenetic commercial nature of Americans together with the non-stop cons, swindles, and dishonesty, representative of the American national character today. From Bee Pollen to Madoff, American activity consists of hucksters. speculators & politicians, trying to get rich fast by depriving the unquestioning workers of their wages.
1
In arguing that America is the more vibrant and energetic place, Cohen seems to be searching rather desperately for some silver lining, some positive value to be found in our harsh and callous society. It's a false hope. Our way of life -- scrambling endlessly to cover the exorbitant costs of housing, medical care, insurance, and education; searching for work in a stagnant economy; putting in long hours on the job with little time off; worrying about layoffs and loss of benefits; and traveling on decrepit transit systems and crumbling roads and bridges -- is not conducive to creativity and high spirits. We have high unemployment and underemployment; we waste talent rather than nurture it. Investment in public goods would do far more to create a livable and dynamic society than the unbridled capitalism we have now. Unless you're a billionaire, there is no silver lining.
270
Let me paraphrase this - the choice is between been oppressed by state bureaucrats or by rich individualists. The biggest difference is that state bureaucracy is the ultimate cast while there exists a chance to become one of those rich individualists. It is your choice, but remember that bureaucracy exists only to protect itself.
2
I hope that Roger Cohen will be spared validation of the Donald becoming the next Potus.
2
"On global warming, the country adapts but does not confront, content 'to protect itself, and itself alone.' "
As if one country, any country, on the planet could protect itself alone
from the onslaught of climate change.
As if one country, any country, on the planet could protect itself alone
from the onslaught of climate change.
2
Extraordinary analysis — or more specifically, diagnosis and prognosis.
You, Mr. Cohen, are a journalist of the highest caliber — an example to your peers.
You are not pessimistic or optimistic, and you are not partisan. You are a skeptic, of the best kind — you are a stoic. Wish there were more of you.
You, Mr. Cohen, are a journalist of the highest caliber — an example to your peers.
You are not pessimistic or optimistic, and you are not partisan. You are a skeptic, of the best kind — you are a stoic. Wish there were more of you.
3
Americans are dumber on average than most Europeans. While our elites are educated at the same rate and level of European countries, many other Americans are not. Couple this with the constant barrage against government at the national level this ignorance is fed by the Republican slime machine on what is basically an anti American agenda. And it works for 49% of population.
And they will keep doing it.
And they will keep doing it.
7
Our time is over - sooner rather than later if we don't wise up. The republican party has managed to speed up the process over the last 40 years.
4
America's vitality and energy?
If America continues with it's eating habits I can promise you there will be NO vitality or energy! Nothing slows you down like being over weight.
If America continues with it's eating habits I can promise you there will be NO vitality or energy! Nothing slows you down like being over weight.
3
An excellent article by Mr. Cohen. There is nothing wrong with excessive spending, when one is spending one's own money. But we Americans have lived beyond our means for the last 40 years, and are spending money saved by the Chinese, Japanes, Saudi, etc., and leave debts to our children and grandchildren. Each child today has inherited a debt of $50,000 or more the minute he/she is born. This is unsustainable and will lead to tragedy like that in Greece. Sadly, not a single candidate for the White House is willing to mention it.
TRy nice at making Americans look like something other than the pigs they are - not all though. And the great polluters, the greatest in the world. American exceptionalism makes Americans the most selfish in the world. Having lived and traveled in the third world makes me sick when I come home and the cities, the roads are more and more like third world cities but endless inducements to eat, eat, eat. WE are behind the so many ways. Bad education except for the 1%,our food supply is often contaminated. It is not safe in America for Americans or for tourists so stay away. There is no concern for our safety except if it means trillions more for guns and warfare.
What's the point with a Congress (Republicans) that just wants to hurt as many people as they can and do. A group of European friends visited here recently - first time in twelve years. They were appalled at the conditions here. Me too.
What's the point with a Congress (Republicans) that just wants to hurt as many people as they can and do. A group of European friends visited here recently - first time in twelve years. They were appalled at the conditions here. Me too.
4
I was an idealistic Ivy league educated first generation Indian American physician who started out hoping to be a public servant on salary working my way up the academic and administrative ladders at the top hospitals in NY. Soon enough-ten years after completing residency, I realized that the CEOs without medical training and other suits in the Csuites worked young dedicated doctors and nurses, most of us hard working immigrants who didnt know any better, down to the bone and put us in situations that compromised our professional judgement. I am grateful that I now have the opportunity in the USA to choose to be a physician in private practice. Most of my patients in pvt practice are children on medicaid so I dont have to deal with corrupt insurance companies with ridiculous deductibles and other barriers to patient care that exist primarily to enrich shareholders at the expense of the doctor patient relationship, for which there needs to be adequate reimbursement for time spent in actual patient care especially in the community setting. Single payor is critical for our nations health, at the expense of the hospital and insurance industries
10
The Holy Cow "Freedom" is just an excuse for Selfishness.
3
I agree with a lot of what is said here. But not all. People in America are not fat because they live lives largely alone. We don't know the reason for obesity, but we do know that it isn't that. The numbers don't bear that out.
2
Mr. Cohen writes "They [the Americans] won’t go the German route of promoting renewables like solar and wind power by guaranteeing higher fixed prices for those who generate it because higher electricity costs would result."
I have understood, that renewables are heavily subsidized in many states round the U.S. Polluting forms of energy are subsidized as well. So America is just as good at arranging corporate welfare, but not of the other kind.
One reason for the American dysfunction is the biannual election cycle with a lot of money sloshing around. It kind of paralyzes politics.
I have understood, that renewables are heavily subsidized in many states round the U.S. Polluting forms of energy are subsidized as well. So America is just as good at arranging corporate welfare, but not of the other kind.
One reason for the American dysfunction is the biannual election cycle with a lot of money sloshing around. It kind of paralyzes politics.
2
The problems he points out with the filth of the big cities, and education in America are directly a result of Democrats and the unions. When are you going to wake up and face the truth ?
1
Captain from WALL-E:
"Well, good morning, everybody, and welcome to day 255,642 aboard the Axiom. As always, the weather is a balmy 72 degrees and sunny, and, uh. Oh, I see the ship's log is showing that today is the 700th anniversary of our five year cruise. Well, I'm sure our forefathers would be proud to know that 700 years later we'd be doing the exact same thing they were doing. So, be sure next mealtime to ask for your free sep-tua-centennial cupcake in a cup. Wow, look at that."
"Well, good morning, everybody, and welcome to day 255,642 aboard the Axiom. As always, the weather is a balmy 72 degrees and sunny, and, uh. Oh, I see the ship's log is showing that today is the 700th anniversary of our five year cruise. Well, I'm sure our forefathers would be proud to know that 700 years later we'd be doing the exact same thing they were doing. So, be sure next mealtime to ask for your free sep-tua-centennial cupcake in a cup. Wow, look at that."
It's fun to watch "House Hunters" to see what Americans expect when buying a home. Even with minimal budgets, potential buyers must have things like stainless steel, high-end appliances, granite countertops (!), wood floors, huge master bathrooms which include double vanities, a separate shower with jetted tub, large, landscaped yards. Perfectly good items and fixtures 'will have to go'. We want vaulted ceilings, 'man caves' and extra large bedrooms. Master bedrooms must accommodate King-size beds, furniture and tvs. When did this happen?!
9
What about freedom from want, from fear? What about the freedom, as individuals, to participate in creating a healthy and whole community? where we all are free from want and fear? We aren't providing for others; we are providing for ourselves, we are all related, strong individuals make for a strong whole, if they care for more than individuals and make a compact to do so.
2
Surveys matter very little - one just has to look at the migration patterns of the world's population over the past 25 years:
"The number of immigrants in the U.S. doubled from 23 million people in 1990 to 46 million in 2013. During this time, no other country has come close to the number of foreign-born people living within its borders." - Pew Research Center
If the world's population didn't find America's freedoms and opportunity important, it wouldn't be the #1 world destination for immigrants.
"The number of immigrants in the U.S. doubled from 23 million people in 1990 to 46 million in 2013. During this time, no other country has come close to the number of foreign-born people living within its borders." - Pew Research Center
If the world's population didn't find America's freedoms and opportunity important, it wouldn't be the #1 world destination for immigrants.
2
Europe revs, America purrs . . .for now. Wastefulness and thoughtlessness seldom end well. At the end of reading this excellent piece, I keep thinking, "what about our kids?"
2
Cohen omits an important hidden factor driving current American resentment against government: our history of slavery (which our federal government abolished under unique historical circumstances). Until Abolition, our southern slave holding states were perfectly fine with the use of federal law and power to pursue slaves who escaped and to restrict free speech that favored abolition. After Abolition, the South pursued "states rights" so as to ensure that liberated slaves and their descendents remained exploited and subservient. Finally, after the Civil Rights era, anti-government ideology morphed into a crutch on which primarily aging white Americans lean on to assuage their fear of demographic changes that threaten their offspring with future minority status. Hence the need to "take our country back," while also ensuring that "freeloading other folks" don't use "our taxes" to access fine public education, health, and infrastructure.
1
The NY Times reported on February 25,2015 that the obesity rate for young children plummeted 43% in a Decade.
The Economist stated: "The rest of the world should not scoff at Americans, because belts in many other places are stretched too, as shown by new data from Majid Ezzati of Imperial College, London, and Gretchen Stevens of the World Health Organisation (WHO)."
In general people today are slowly being educated in eating the right foods for better health.
8
I'm stunned. There are actually people in the world old enough to vote who think that the state can guarantee that nobody is in need?
14
There are people old enough to vote with no recollection of the Soviet Union, its false promises that the state can guarantee no one is in need, or its ignominious collapse.
1
Just came to San Francisco--land of the tech millionaires--and of badly maintained roads, filthy roadsides and homeless people camping under the freeway overpasses. More and more the US feels like a third world country. The very rich insulate themselves from the rest and turn their back on the rest and pontificate about "freedom." But I'll tell you what freedom is beyond what right wing Americans see: it's the ability to know that you will have health care no matter how little you earn. It's the ability to travel on well maintained public transportation throughout your country. It's knowing that your children will receive a decent education and that college costs will not bankrupt them or you.
79
In other words, freedom is money.
So freedom to you is the freedom to other people's money.
1
Your example is San Francisco? Ironic, given that SF is *exactly* the prescription that Cohen is suggested for the rest of the US.
Do you know why SF has so many homeless people? Because of the city's generous homeless benefits! We spend millions building SROs, subsidized housing, public housing. Why do you think SF's roads aren't paved? Because the enormous city budget goes to welfare programs instead of paving the streets or picking up the trash. The city recently cut funding to tree maintenance so it could spend money on, for example, free Muni tickets for low income families.
Do you know why SF has so many homeless people? Because of the city's generous homeless benefits! We spend millions building SROs, subsidized housing, public housing. Why do you think SF's roads aren't paved? Because the enormous city budget goes to welfare programs instead of paving the streets or picking up the trash. The city recently cut funding to tree maintenance so it could spend money on, for example, free Muni tickets for low income families.
Hey! Nobody's going to tell me how to avoid being stupid and shortsighted!
23
" Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to be free."
5
The US is doing an excellent job at producing our own tired, our own poor, our own huddled masses, generation after generation of them. Not sure they're yearning to be free though, more likely yearning for jobs that would allow them a roof over their head, food in their belly, access to reasonably priced healthcare, and their kids in decent schools.
Just returned from visiting Holland, Germany and Switzerland. Did not see any huddled masses, nor any visibly poor...
Just returned from visiting Holland, Germany and Switzerland. Did not see any huddled masses, nor any visibly poor...
1
haha! you really still believe that!?
Guess they all left for America.
After China was defeated by Japan in the Sino-Japanese War in 1895, the Japanese representative at peace negotiations, Ito Hirobumi, asked the Chinese representative, Li Hongzhang, "why hasn't China adopted far-reaching reforms, as we encouraged you to do many times?" Li replied: "it is because we Chinese are so fond of our traditions."
Just as China's internal weaknesses made it vulnerable to imperialist exploitation at the end of the 19th century, so America's fondness for "individualism with collateral damage" is turning our country into one that just cannot solve its own problems. I just hope that during the 21st century (1) Americans won't have to suffer the way the Chinese did in the 20th century from social breakdown; and (2) the "remedy" for the failure in American values won't be totalitarianism, as it has been in the People's Republic of China since 1949.
Just as China's internal weaknesses made it vulnerable to imperialist exploitation at the end of the 19th century, so America's fondness for "individualism with collateral damage" is turning our country into one that just cannot solve its own problems. I just hope that during the 21st century (1) Americans won't have to suffer the way the Chinese did in the 20th century from social breakdown; and (2) the "remedy" for the failure in American values won't be totalitarianism, as it has been in the People's Republic of China since 1949.
9
Whether it comes to food or fuel, they don’t want measures where “voting-age adults are being coerced into a lifestyle change.”
--------------------
Coincidentally the KTV news at noon showed a protest in Los Angeles against our state's sky-high gas prices, "135% higher than the national average," a protester said. Gov. Jerry Brown and Co. make no secret of coercion at the pump and in the trebling of DMV fees to force people into alternative transportation -- where it exists. San Francisco's mass transit system is notoriously antique. Silicon Valley, determinedly enlightened otherwise, has the lowest use of HOV lanes in the state. Where's the happy median? (no pun intended.)
--------------------
Coincidentally the KTV news at noon showed a protest in Los Angeles against our state's sky-high gas prices, "135% higher than the national average," a protester said. Gov. Jerry Brown and Co. make no secret of coercion at the pump and in the trebling of DMV fees to force people into alternative transportation -- where it exists. San Francisco's mass transit system is notoriously antique. Silicon Valley, determinedly enlightened otherwise, has the lowest use of HOV lanes in the state. Where's the happy median? (no pun intended.)
2
Gandhi: "Be what you want uh see in the world."
In others eyes we 'appear' to be selfish but we all know what FREEDOM MEANS.
If you've never had true FREEDOM, you never know what you are giving up for STATE controlled guarantees - no loss, no true risk and the experience of personal loss and the journey of self to gain back to the degree you chose.
If you've never had true FREEDOM, you never know what you are giving up for STATE controlled guarantees - no loss, no true risk and the experience of personal loss and the journey of self to gain back to the degree you chose.
4
Most countries do in fact, understand what FREEDOM is, and enjoy government guarantees, too! Recently I had to pay $127 for not wearing my seat belt while driving 6 blocks to the store...
What is it that you aren't free to do that you want to do?
Necessity is, unfortunately, the mother of invention.
2
Our goal should always be the greater good. When nobody is hungry, homeless, or needlessly ill, my opinion may evolve.
10
The American Dream in 2015 is built on a foundation of selfishness and greed. Once you "have" in America, you generally couldn't care less about the "have nots".
This nation was founded on the idea of providing for the "general welfare" of "We the People".
In 2015, the rich want to destroy the poor so that they can have "more". The predominant god in America is the golden calf - and any other diety is only allowed along for show.
In America, the rich know that it takes a lot of homeless people to make a billionaire, and they feel that that is a price worth paying !!
This nation was founded on the idea of providing for the "general welfare" of "We the People".
In 2015, the rich want to destroy the poor so that they can have "more". The predominant god in America is the golden calf - and any other diety is only allowed along for show.
In America, the rich know that it takes a lot of homeless people to make a billionaire, and they feel that that is a price worth paying !!
28
Eloquently expressed petty judgementalism of those who are different.
4
A fecund and marvelous article. It has yielded hundreds of sane comments, rich in concerns for humane civilization.
5
Meanwhile, in the real world, before the US led (by law) NATO alliance, Europe led the planet into two World Wars within a generation's time frame. Two world wars that actually wiped civilization from parts of the earth.
But in the 70 years since the last one, US leadership has insured there has been no third world war.
Hardwired to the notion of self-reliance, indeed.
But in the 70 years since the last one, US leadership has insured there has been no third world war.
Hardwired to the notion of self-reliance, indeed.
11
We've been in the third world war, U.S.-led, since sometime in the 1970s, haven't we?
1
In my experience Europe is a polished solid walnut table compared to America's Formica glued to particleboard.
15
In my experience the furniture one sees in some Paris apartments belongs to a few family generations with their stamp on it, and to be admired but never used. The American plywood table top, on a $70 dollar stand from Walmart, looks wonderful covered in a sumptuous cloth, and can be folded when being used for a picnic near the Brooklyn Bridge Park.
1
Obviously then, that European table is not purchased at IKEA, which makes EVERYTHING out of cheap fiberboard and formica and manufactures it all in CHINA.
An older view of individualism is to equate it with adolescence, aka, immaturity.
It has been said (but I cannot cite a source) that America is a young country,
in it's adolescents. And that Americans worship youth and energy over maturity
and wisdom. I think these statements are more insightful than statements about
individuality.
It has been said (but I cannot cite a source) that America is a young country,
in it's adolescents. And that Americans worship youth and energy over maturity
and wisdom. I think these statements are more insightful than statements about
individuality.
7
Mr. Cohen might be less pessimistic if he were to refrain from overstating contemporary America's virtues.
There have been, are, and will be in the future numerous societies other than the United States with abundant creativity, vitality, and energy, whose populations are not as sinfully gluttonous as most Americans.
There have been, are, and will be in the future numerous societies other than the United States with abundant creativity, vitality, and energy, whose populations are not as sinfully gluttonous as most Americans.
16
... & we are also far more religious than our European forebears... how does that factor into our inability to puzzle our way through the problem of building a sustainable society on our shrinking, fragile blue planet. I fear that religiousity is the major impediment to the USA finding a way to survive as a species - especially with the rest of our own species even.
9
Roger,
I am very much in agreement but not nearly so pessimistic. The only adage "Whom the gods seek to destroy, they first make mad."
I am not pessimistic because the polarized angry directionless America is falling apart at the seams. The nonsense being propagated from on high has no discern-able positive outcome outcome the pull date on the American experiment is close at hand and I am doubtful there will be a single USA in ten years.
I will not be watching the GOP debate tonight as there is a far more important debate going on in Canada. What is going on in Canada is the debate about the world in the 21st century. What is going on in Ohio is a debate about recreating a past that never was.
My simple wish is that as Rome burns it doesn't burn down all the surrounding towns and villages.
I am very much in agreement but not nearly so pessimistic. The only adage "Whom the gods seek to destroy, they first make mad."
I am not pessimistic because the polarized angry directionless America is falling apart at the seams. The nonsense being propagated from on high has no discern-able positive outcome outcome the pull date on the American experiment is close at hand and I am doubtful there will be a single USA in ten years.
I will not be watching the GOP debate tonight as there is a far more important debate going on in Canada. What is going on in Canada is the debate about the world in the 21st century. What is going on in Ohio is a debate about recreating a past that never was.
My simple wish is that as Rome burns it doesn't burn down all the surrounding towns and villages.
7
I'm surprised that Mr.Cohen forgot to include the tragic unemployment, particularly youth unemployment, that plagues the "utopia" of Europe. Spain is looking at a 22.5%, Italy at 12.4%, and Greece at 25.6%. Whereas, the US is looking at 5.5% and declining. Perhaps Mr.Cohen spent to much time in the Utopian facades of the tourist areas of town, rather than the actual Europe behind closed curtains. I've spent plenty of time in Europe, particularly Ireland and England, and I've seen the same crumbling infrastructure, poverty, and immigration problems that plague the US. The difference? There is none.
15
You are correct, except about Italy -- a typo, maybe? Youth unemployment in Italy is 42.40% -- not 12% -- worse than ours by a factor of 8 times.
And again let us just remind ourselves that the unemployment rate is NOT declining because more people are finding work but because there are LESS people working. Makes us look good huh?
Here are some examples of labor participation rates per capita
USA-62.6%
Italy-63.9%
Russia-68.9%
Ireland-59.8%
Finland-68.4%
Germanys unemployment rate 4.7%(June of 15) Youth unemployment rate for Germany stands at 7.1% versus USA at 12.1% (both countries reporting June of 15
Numbers from trading economics.com
I could go on and on. Remember those that are working or actively looking for employment count, those that are not in the labor pool don't count and that's the reason why our unemployment rate is low. Our labor participation rate is dismal considering per capita that we had more people working in 1978 than we currently do now that's almost forty years ago.
Here are some examples of labor participation rates per capita
USA-62.6%
Italy-63.9%
Russia-68.9%
Ireland-59.8%
Finland-68.4%
Germanys unemployment rate 4.7%(June of 15) Youth unemployment rate for Germany stands at 7.1% versus USA at 12.1% (both countries reporting June of 15
Numbers from trading economics.com
I could go on and on. Remember those that are working or actively looking for employment count, those that are not in the labor pool don't count and that's the reason why our unemployment rate is low. Our labor participation rate is dismal considering per capita that we had more people working in 1978 than we currently do now that's almost forty years ago.
1
Unfortunately political correctness applies to American's gluttony. In a society with 1/3 overweight and 1/3 obese people, we have reached a tipping point where most people don't even have a clue what a normal body looks like. Unfortunately the American healthcare system is part of the problem. In the UK (single payer system), doctors have no problem telling the patient that they are fat and to lose some weight. In the US where the patients are "customers", doctors have to compete for their business not by speaking the truth, but rather by making fat people feel good about themselves. So doctors respond by prescribing a pill so that the overweight folks can keep on overeating, instead of changing their lifestyle.
6
It is not American excess that is the problem. Everyone in the world is aspiring to be American. That is the problem. The consumption has to go down as a percentage of national consumption across all the nations. Then and only then can we resolve the global issues. The per capita is a wrong number. India has 1.2 Billion people. Obviously, they will have low per capita. What is important is productivity. If American productivity is more they consume more. We need to look at the sensible numbers.
4
You cannot take any poll to find out the differences between Americans and Europeans, or for that matter, between Americans and Singaporeans.
Mr. Cohen wrote: " In the United States, 58 percent chose freedom and only 35 percent a state pledge to eradicate neediness. "
But how can you take a poll to detect how many people chose to be responsible citizens, whether that means having more freedom to be that, or chose to be dependent on government ... versus how many people choose instead to be irresponsible citizens, whether that means living wastefully without regard for economy, and with utmost disregard for the environment, etc. or whether that means choosing the easier path of going along with government 'charity. Whether people are free to be more free, or prefer more state control, sadly they may in either case be unwittingly, more or less, opting for being less responsible people?
And no poll will show that, because people do at least know that when its being directly talked about as if it matters, being an irresponsible person is not something to admit to. And again, most unfortunately, in what comes of living in a culture of irresponsibility, people don't directly talk about or think about it ... because they prefer to keep being irresponsible in the pattern that society has fallen into, and which has in fact set for them.
Mr. Cohen wrote: " In the United States, 58 percent chose freedom and only 35 percent a state pledge to eradicate neediness. "
But how can you take a poll to detect how many people chose to be responsible citizens, whether that means having more freedom to be that, or chose to be dependent on government ... versus how many people choose instead to be irresponsible citizens, whether that means living wastefully without regard for economy, and with utmost disregard for the environment, etc. or whether that means choosing the easier path of going along with government 'charity. Whether people are free to be more free, or prefer more state control, sadly they may in either case be unwittingly, more or less, opting for being less responsible people?
And no poll will show that, because people do at least know that when its being directly talked about as if it matters, being an irresponsible person is not something to admit to. And again, most unfortunately, in what comes of living in a culture of irresponsibility, people don't directly talk about or think about it ... because they prefer to keep being irresponsible in the pattern that society has fallen into, and which has in fact set for them.
3
What Americans today are blinded to is systems thinking. Each issue is treated as if the world were made of neatly packaged goods, no issue related to another, each a world unto itself. This hyper-competitive individualistic worldview is best for producing quick results and fixes, but it cannot address anything requiring cooperation in the long term. It will take collapsing bridges and encroaching seas to finally push the US into action, but by that time, only more of the same will be in store.
Contrast this with the inspiring times of JFK, when together, Americans reached for the Moon and actually got there! Americans can do it, just not the ones on watch today. But it isn't global warming, decaying infrastructure, or obesity that will spell America's final doom. It is losing sight of the fact that defeating the USSR was in the end a cash flow war, and to regain the pre-1980 country that was financially capable of such feats would require vast changes in the "pure market" policies that sound smart... but leave the US with a huge trade deficit year in, year out. Soon enough the Chinese will easily outspend and eventually outgun the US. Oops!
Contrast this with the inspiring times of JFK, when together, Americans reached for the Moon and actually got there! Americans can do it, just not the ones on watch today. But it isn't global warming, decaying infrastructure, or obesity that will spell America's final doom. It is losing sight of the fact that defeating the USSR was in the end a cash flow war, and to regain the pre-1980 country that was financially capable of such feats would require vast changes in the "pure market" policies that sound smart... but leave the US with a huge trade deficit year in, year out. Soon enough the Chinese will easily outspend and eventually outgun the US. Oops!
6
Americans insist that individual responsibility is better than collective responsibility because without state-imposed rules, they can avoid individual action that might cause inconvenience or expense. The outcome of this approach is so appealing that it is addictive and we are - as a society - hooked on it.
In attempting to explain the difference between the attitudes of Europeans and Americans, this insightful article fails to mention a key difference between us and them: the degree of religious belief.
Americans, against all the evidence of history, continue to believe that God actually watches over us and will help us solve our problems because he created us and won't destroy us. To which I say, "If only!"
In attempting to explain the difference between the attitudes of Europeans and Americans, this insightful article fails to mention a key difference between us and them: the degree of religious belief.
Americans, against all the evidence of history, continue to believe that God actually watches over us and will help us solve our problems because he created us and won't destroy us. To which I say, "If only!"
6
Democratic republics rarely govern from the top down except in crisis, and the trampling of individual rights during a crisis should be regressed as soon as the crisis is over. As Winston Churchill famously said, "Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all the others." Such governments muddle along until war or other crisis forces concensus, thereby reducing chances to cripple individual liberties that once squandered are often gone for good, ceded to the Leviathan. Lincoln only suspended habeas corpus during the Civil War, not before....
Europe's socialist pseudo-republics, with their socialist agendas, are a disaster. As Churchill also astutely observed, "Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery." (Which we today call, "equality"...)
If America feels a bit messy today, it is because the ridiculous level of prosperity in my youth (New York in 1960 was just magical--it was a real mess by 1975) has been squandered by our attempts to embrace at least great parts of the socialist and anti-industrial agenda that has resulted in the exporting of many jobs and with it the thinning of our comfortable middle class.
America is dynamic; Europe and Japan are dynastic; Why would anyone ever trade the energy of the one for the false comfort of the other, just so you can rate a government-issued bed to sleep in?
Europe's socialist pseudo-republics, with their socialist agendas, are a disaster. As Churchill also astutely observed, "Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery." (Which we today call, "equality"...)
If America feels a bit messy today, it is because the ridiculous level of prosperity in my youth (New York in 1960 was just magical--it was a real mess by 1975) has been squandered by our attempts to embrace at least great parts of the socialist and anti-industrial agenda that has resulted in the exporting of many jobs and with it the thinning of our comfortable middle class.
America is dynamic; Europe and Japan are dynastic; Why would anyone ever trade the energy of the one for the false comfort of the other, just so you can rate a government-issued bed to sleep in?
5
Apropos dynastic: I cannot recall any democratic European country governed by dynasties like Bush, Roosevelt, Kennedy and possibly Clinton.
Oh sorry, I forgot Greece. That country does seem to have a dynastic bend.
Oh sorry, I forgot Greece. That country does seem to have a dynastic bend.
1
The thing is, while Europe and the rest of the world may good at maintain the status quo, they are slow to adapt to unexpected situations. For all their supposed collectivism, to whom does the world turn when there is a major disaster or outbreak of hostilities? I believe their experience may have given them a better feel for diplomacy, but I also think that their interconnectivity makes them sometimes imagine their are diplomatic solutions to every threat. This is why almost every U.N. Resolution "condemning" the actions of power mad warlords are largely ignored until the prospect of U.S. involvement is considered. The implied threat of U.S. action gives weight to the "world community's" use of "soft power." As for innovation, the U.S. environment has produced companies so technologically capable that European citizens use them to the detriment of domestic services. Name a few European search engines you've used; a superior European cell phone company; a blockbuster European drug. Europe has produced many of the greatest scientists the world has ever known; Europe HAS the talent. Why do so many wind up working for/in the U.S.? Because we will value their talents and create an environment that allows them to flourish. Europe will regulate them into the dirt. As for social services, Europe's unemployment and pension problems make their social net look about as crumbly as U.S. infrastructure. Our innovation can probably fix our roads. What's their plan?
5
They have no plan. Just trash America, then lean on us when they need help. Our overweight, pickup-driving butts will still be there to bail them out. Again. Yeah, America's not Euro-predictable. That's exactly what makes it great.
America, being a nation of immigrants, has self-selected for types that would rather go their own way. This has given us entrepreneurship AND unforgivable crassness.
7
A longer view of history would show that our vices are not necessary to creation.
The is an endless effort to find fault with America. America has its faults but I am guessing Paarlberg will prove to be incorrect.
4
What's the point of finding fault with countries you don't live in?
American excess is tempered by a significant young and growing native and immigrant black African American and brown Hispanic/Latino population. While ethnic sectarian supremacist xenophobic intemperate Europe-including Russia- is rapidly aging, shrinking and white. China and Japan are also aging and shrinking beneath their ethnic sectarian supremacist xenophobic mythology. Where is the European, Chinese or Russian Barack Hussein Obama?
2
I have always maintained there are two types of freedoms -- "freedom to" and "freedom from."
It seems clear America's DNA springs from the former while Europe's is more focused on the latter.
It seems clear America's DNA springs from the former while Europe's is more focused on the latter.
9
Americans are sold on union busting. The government that can regulate and tax corporations is thus seen as a 'union' to be busted. That government finances are a 'family budget' and Gold is money are the ideologies of this union busting. ...and Citizens United.
3
Roger Cohen, always thought-provoking. What you omitted, however, in this piece is the gun violence in America and what gun-right advocates here want us to believe: That easy access to guns by Americans-no matter their backgrounds-would one day prevent the bloodshed associated with such ownership.
Fareed Zakaria last Sunday stated in his show that ever since 9/11, about 158,000 Americans have lost their lives through gun violence, four times the number of Americans who died during the Vietnam war. Yet- and this is to reemphasize Cohen's argument about "American excess"- there are lousy arguments out there, that providing citizens with more guns would help curb the violence linked to these murders. Think about it: 158, 000 lives lost due to gun violence within 14 years! And no one thinks there's something definitely wrong with the availability of guns in our streets? Come on !
I don't recall how many Americans died during its civil war, but whatever that number was, it was an outright war, where there was the expectation that lives would be lost. But to imagine that 158,000 lives have been lost within a country that is not in a civil war is unconscionable.
Fareed Zakaria last Sunday stated in his show that ever since 9/11, about 158,000 Americans have lost their lives through gun violence, four times the number of Americans who died during the Vietnam war. Yet- and this is to reemphasize Cohen's argument about "American excess"- there are lousy arguments out there, that providing citizens with more guns would help curb the violence linked to these murders. Think about it: 158, 000 lives lost due to gun violence within 14 years! And no one thinks there's something definitely wrong with the availability of guns in our streets? Come on !
I don't recall how many Americans died during its civil war, but whatever that number was, it was an outright war, where there was the expectation that lives would be lost. But to imagine that 158,000 lives have been lost within a country that is not in a civil war is unconscionable.
24
Excess is only the symptom; the root is the attitude that the universe begins and ends with the individual. America has an almost religious obedience to and worship of the thoughts and desire of an individual. So long as an individual has expressed their wish, nobody has neither the authority (moral or legal) nor responsibility to tell them otherwise.
In this attitude, opinions are facts, desires are needs and therefore rights, community and government are always oppression, the sky is the limit for profit and the future does not exist. Who does this remind you of?
In this attitude, opinions are facts, desires are needs and therefore rights, community and government are always oppression, the sky is the limit for profit and the future does not exist. Who does this remind you of?
8
The last time I traveled to NYC (from the midwest), I was shocked and repulsed by the state of its infrastructure. Miles and miles of crumbling, falling apart roads, buildings, and bridges. Unless we as Americans choose to rebuild and restructure, how can we call our country "the best in the world"? It is falling apart!!
30
NYC is one of the highest taxed places in the US. What is the NYC government doing with the money?
4
You would be further shocked if you were to go to parts of Asia (Singapore, Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong, etc.) and compare the excellent airports and railroads they have built to the crumbling messes we have (LAX and JFK in particular).
1
"Unless we as Americans choose to rebuild and restructure, how can we call our country "the best in the world"? "
Perhaps there would be infrastructure repairs if the democrats did not insist that it all be done by overpaid union goons who kickback most of their union dues to the democrats.
Perhaps there would be infrastructure repairs if the democrats did not insist that it all be done by overpaid union goons who kickback most of their union dues to the democrats.
1
Individualism -- on what The United States was founded. Collectivism -- what the LiberalProgressiveDemocrats demand (and what has caused millions upon millions of Russian, German, Chinese and others' deaths and slow, struggling economies). This is the core of the Second Civil War. That war has enabled class warfare, racial animosity, substandard educations, continuing poverty, reduction of freedom in what is offered us to buy, what to say and think, higher prices in government dictates in automobiles, healthcare, energy, and everything from the LiberalProgressiveDemocrat trial lawyers. You choose: freedom or oppression by politicians thirsting for power.
Http://www.periodictablet.com
Http://www.periodictablet.com
3
"The question, of course, is whether America’s virtues — its creative churn, vitality and energy — are intrinsic to these vices. My own pessimistic conclusion is that they probably are."
Another way of looking at this is to consider whether those virtues of the 19th century may be turning into vices in the 21st. We are no longer so sparsely populated, nor as able physically to isolate ourselves from each other. And we no longer have the illusion of unlimited natural resources or the ability to engage in our excesses or dump our garbage in secrecy,
I don't know that we should become "like Europe," but I think that if we do not become more like Canada, we shall end up more like our less-fortunate neighbors to the south.
Another way of looking at this is to consider whether those virtues of the 19th century may be turning into vices in the 21st. We are no longer so sparsely populated, nor as able physically to isolate ourselves from each other. And we no longer have the illusion of unlimited natural resources or the ability to engage in our excesses or dump our garbage in secrecy,
I don't know that we should become "like Europe," but I think that if we do not become more like Canada, we shall end up more like our less-fortunate neighbors to the south.
10
This is a false choice. Most Americans are not entrepreneurs or risk takers. Most are barely educated. We should maintain the freedom for creativity and individual growth and success and provide a social framework for the rest to live decent lives. We can't possibly do that when most of the wealth being created by our economy is going to a tiny fraction of the population.
16
Every time I return from Europe the filth of NYC slaps me in the face. After just a couple of weeks away one begins to feel the absence of homeless people and the mentally ill as the norm, and forgets that in American cities the homeless people, the mentally ill wander around uncared for. And, oh yes, American self indulgence! I have the right to idle my engine for hours at a time spewing climate changing CO2 in the atmosphere by the hundred of thousands of tons, cool my workplace, and restaurants to bone chilling temperatures in summer, while California burns. I'll do whatever I want--it's the American way. There should be ubiquitous ads making Americans aware of the consequences of their profligacy.
28
America and Europe also have a very different view of freedom of speech. Our Bill of Rights exists to specify the limits of government powers over the people. There is no such thing in Europe. We historically have seen government as a necessary evil as opposed to the answer to all our problems. I think we are on the correct side of this. I do find it interesting that Europe which has had to fight and beat both Nazism and Communism ( with our help of course) still find big government to be the answer. Maybe that attraction to centralized power helps explain the last 100 years in Europe.
5
Freedom of speech? Those who want to watch the Republican debate today have to pay for it, if I am not mistaken. Access to democracy is free in Europe.
1
I think this has devolved into a dump-on-Americas fest. While a lot of this is true, you are missing some of the bigger points:
-Most of the great breakthroughs and inventions of the 20th and 21st centuries come from US, not Europe (the life saving drugs, the WWW, phone, TV, radio, you name it). All that greed and individualism brought the world Google, FB, Twitter, Apple, and all the other tech companies Europe relies on.
-We are culture leaders. Most of the world watches our movies and listens to our music.
-We are far more tolerant of different races and nationalities than other countries. For all the articles published about the racism that still exists in US, it is far worse in Europe. Ask any black person who has spent time in a country like France. In fact a good friend of mine (who is black) left for that very reason.
-Our national park system is better than any other in the world
-Our unemployment rate is better than almost every country in Europe except Germany.
-US is more welcoming to foreigners. We are a country of immigrants after all.
-Gas, food, houses are cheaper.
-Best universities in the world
Again, I am familiar with all the complaints about this country. While many of them are true, I think it is important to remember the positives too.
-Most of the great breakthroughs and inventions of the 20th and 21st centuries come from US, not Europe (the life saving drugs, the WWW, phone, TV, radio, you name it). All that greed and individualism brought the world Google, FB, Twitter, Apple, and all the other tech companies Europe relies on.
-We are culture leaders. Most of the world watches our movies and listens to our music.
-We are far more tolerant of different races and nationalities than other countries. For all the articles published about the racism that still exists in US, it is far worse in Europe. Ask any black person who has spent time in a country like France. In fact a good friend of mine (who is black) left for that very reason.
-Our national park system is better than any other in the world
-Our unemployment rate is better than almost every country in Europe except Germany.
-US is more welcoming to foreigners. We are a country of immigrants after all.
-Gas, food, houses are cheaper.
-Best universities in the world
Again, I am familiar with all the complaints about this country. While many of them are true, I think it is important to remember the positives too.
8
We are pop culture leaders. And you don't see the difference exactly because Americans lack real human values of Europeans - instinctive need for the beauty in everyday life, instinctive need for conscience, instinctive need for the soul. FB. Twitter.
1
America's "creative churn, vitality and energy" are misdirected for profit, making them work against us in many cases. Individualism and freedom include the freedom to make bad decisions - but freedom also requires having information and not being pushed hard. Obesity is a good example. People choose fattening foods in response to massive advertising campaigns (advertising works!). These foods are deliberately enhanced with extra sugar, salt and fat to appeal more than less processed foods. Another important factor is that junk food is cheaper and much more readily available than fresh, unprocessed food, especially in poor neighborhoods. Individualism trumps all? Garbage! Heavy persuasion, little information about food content and less choice is more like it. It would make sense to subsidize fresh food for the public good since processed food is heavily subsidized. But special interests fight it. Propaganda misrepresents efforts to improve our diet as infringing freedom. I say Ag Gag laws are an infringement of freedom. The long, long lists of ingredients are information rendered useless by lack of context. Better food at schools introduces children to alternate possibillities (an increase in freedom of choice) and is a subject of bitter political contention. So what is left is the higher profit solutions like baryatric surgery and pills, pills, pills.
Better food policy is not charity for the "less fortunate". It benefits everybody with few exceptions.
Better food policy is not charity for the "less fortunate". It benefits everybody with few exceptions.
6
How can one be free if one's basic needs are not fulfilled? Americans seem to believe that a libertarian ideology of freedom at all costs is great. Europeans like individual freedom also. But, they understand that the main role of the state is to prevent social predators to exploit their fellow citizens. Sometimes, the state is too large as in France. But, the French feel free. Notice, how often they protest in the streets against anything they dislike! It does not happen in the US. While the European model is more equality based than the US, it still has not solved the unacceptable problem of inequality of opportunities. Minorities suffer from discrimination in Europe also. But, overall the European social-democratic system works better for the average family than the US model. Many Americans do not know much about the world outside their borders. They suffer from a terminal social disease, the arrogance of ignorance. Having lived and worked on both sides of the "pond", I think that European's quality of life is way higher than the US one. Life is not about acquiring material goods (often imported junk). It is about enjoying what one has. To experience a quality life, freedom from the fear of poverty must be more or less achieved. A civilized, democratic state should provide it to its citizens.
29
You take what is true for you to be a human universal. It isn't. When given the opportunity many people have deliberately chosen poverty with freedom over comfort without it. As Ben Framklin said "Better a Ploughman on his feet than a nobleman on his knees." Freedom from control, even at personal risk and want, was the original American Dream, not stuff. Not everyone fears poverty so much as to yield up their liberty to avoid it.
Americans are free to choose which ethic to live by. Those who prefer security are free to seek government employment, join the military, join a cult or commune, or even emmigrate. The socialist can find a socialist niche in a free society. A free man in a socialist society must either watch the slow death of his soul or leave.
Americans are free to choose which ethic to live by. Those who prefer security are free to seek government employment, join the military, join a cult or commune, or even emmigrate. The socialist can find a socialist niche in a free society. A free man in a socialist society must either watch the slow death of his soul or leave.
1
The three sentence marketing rule about populace:
waist measures your waste.
figure silhouettes how you figure.
character is reliance on cars and actors
Wherever any of that needs to be trimmed, seek a healthy resort.
waist measures your waste.
figure silhouettes how you figure.
character is reliance on cars and actors
Wherever any of that needs to be trimmed, seek a healthy resort.
2
Roger Cohen is spot on with this piece. Whatever remains of so-called "American exceptionalism" seems ludicrous and comedic at this point in history. And the trend is definitely downward.
22
My father was an immigrant from Austria-Hungary. I remember asking him why did he come to America? He told me America is like every country; some people are good and some are not so good. But in America the law is on your side. Driving thru Bavaria on what would have been my father's hundredth birthday, I marveled at the neatness and the cleanliness. No doubt the trains run on time. At the same time I got a new appreciation for the litter, noise, and plaid shorts of back home.
9
Roger,
I am afraid on this one, you may be off. The thing about America is you have a choice.. to overeat, to waste, etc.. but its a choice, not a government mandated rule. Some of the best athletes, and physically fit folks can be found here in America.
As a naturalized citizen of color, I doubt any country in Europe would have given me the opportunities I received in America. Or encouraged and tolerated the level of risk taking that keeps our society dynamic and energized.
Of course if you are uncomfortable with the social and economic mobility inherent in the USA, and desire a well defined society where you are slotted in according to who or where you were born, then perhaps Europe is a better choice.
I am afraid on this one, you may be off. The thing about America is you have a choice.. to overeat, to waste, etc.. but its a choice, not a government mandated rule. Some of the best athletes, and physically fit folks can be found here in America.
As a naturalized citizen of color, I doubt any country in Europe would have given me the opportunities I received in America. Or encouraged and tolerated the level of risk taking that keeps our society dynamic and energized.
Of course if you are uncomfortable with the social and economic mobility inherent in the USA, and desire a well defined society where you are slotted in according to who or where you were born, then perhaps Europe is a better choice.
14
Individualism is OK, to a point. But if it's so self-centered that there is no room to care for other people and your own community, it, then, is bound to be a failure. The lesson here is this: Life must be balanced. It must contain elements of both individualism and collectivism. Ignoring one or the other is an invitation to extremism.
11
The European mentality may seem more muted and less creative but more compassionate and thoughtful. The U.S. mentality promotes taking more risks and with that more excessive behavior but is more inventive (maybe because it has to be) and vibrant. In the end it’s all about balance and given the constant change in the evolution of humans and technology keeping things in balance not easy. It’s kind of like sailing where at times you have to shift the balance of the boat to keep it going in the right direction and/or ultimately from sinking
2
I'd rather focus on the American "excess" of creativity, the products of which ensure that we continue to live in exciting times. Convenience and efficiency made possible by the Internet -- to name just one of those products -- in managing our lives is absolutely remarkable, to put it mildly. Somehow, "create your destiny" admonition of America appeals to me far more than "state will take care you" value of Europe.
1
European mentality more compassionate? Should we start with the shoeless children of post WW1 Austria and come forward or the recent Balkans wars and work our way back?
1
It's a delusion to think Americans are free to make these choices. They're made, in many cases, by corporations that decide to peddle junk food and use cheaper, deadlier energy sources. We were supposed to be frightened by government 'death panels' when all along these panels existed but were in fact organized by corporate insurers. That's freedom?
6
How a question is framed frequently determines the way it is answered. We have recognized as legitimate functions of government both to promote the general welfare, and to secure the blessings of liberty. I feel that to frame this as an either/or proposition: liberty vs. security falsely colors the debate.
4
I am an American. My grandparents moved to America from Europe. I think of myself as an individualist. But based on the comparisons made in this column, my outlook is in line with Europeans. I prefer that government have programs to make life better for all. I will add, however, that this column includes generalizations. There are many exceptions.
3
the US is a capitalist free fire zone built on an ignoble triad - slavery, puritanism/fundamentalism and genocide. The myth of the loner, pioneer, free of government control is powerful and represents many of the marginal people who immigrated here, but make no mistake the settling of the US was a european political and economic project but due to it's immigrant nature, and no conscious policy, its probably the most tolerant place for lots of different kinds of people to live relatively peacefully with each other.
2
Americans have destroyed their innate social controls, mostly those associated with religion, and aren't inclined to replace them with European-style government social controls.
Remember, Americans were not always fat, and they did not always eat alone.
It's worth noting that Europeans are getting fatter all the time, as anyone who has travelled there for decades has noticed. In addition, their style of dress in public has declined dramatically.
Remember, Americans were not always fat, and they did not always eat alone.
It's worth noting that Europeans are getting fatter all the time, as anyone who has travelled there for decades has noticed. In addition, their style of dress in public has declined dramatically.
6
I think Cohen over-generalizes. There are many places in Europe that don't purr so much as "growl," (look at all the growing nativism, for example) And the obese, angry, gun-toting, state-hating, hyper-individualistic Americans typically belong to one of our major political parties, which has been hijacked (with its own complicity) by its most extreme elements, and in turn has hijacked our political process to prevent our addressing the many issues plaguing the country today. Excess in consumption is an American disease, but let's try to think realistically about our problems.
7
I think we Americans have conflated the notions of liberty and freedom. I believe them to be two different things.
Liberty is what our revolution was fought for, the liberty to be apart from the Empire, the liberty from a king, the liberty to pursue our own form of government.
Freedoms stem from that liberty but are more restricted in nature, the freedom to do unto others is not without limits as an example.
Now we have the freedom to buy almost any form of gun we want to and we see the resulting chaos. We have the freedom to grow and eat high fructose corn syrup and we see the resulting spread of waists and butts.
Now we have the freedom to destroy our planet which in turn will destroy our liberty.
Ah, those crafty Europeans.
Liberty is what our revolution was fought for, the liberty to be apart from the Empire, the liberty from a king, the liberty to pursue our own form of government.
Freedoms stem from that liberty but are more restricted in nature, the freedom to do unto others is not without limits as an example.
Now we have the freedom to buy almost any form of gun we want to and we see the resulting chaos. We have the freedom to grow and eat high fructose corn syrup and we see the resulting spread of waists and butts.
Now we have the freedom to destroy our planet which in turn will destroy our liberty.
Ah, those crafty Europeans.
5
I agree with some of the comments talking about Europeans need to pull together as a result of the two great wars. I believe the geographic closeness of their countries is another contributing factor. The only times the U.S. has really had to truly pull together in the last hundred years or so was because of Pearl Harbor (WW II) and the 9/11 attacks. However even in the case of the 9/11 attacks the togetherness was muted as the war on terror even now is not an “all in” effort as was the case in WW II.
The U.S. for the most part has been spared either the threat or the actual experience of invasion and wholesale destruction. As such the tendency is to think that we are to some degree indestructible and therefore there is no real need to pull together. In fact pulling together is really another form of socialism and is contradictory to our core beliefs. This way of thinking is also a remnant of a society dominated by an agrarian way of life in which most people were truly self-reliant.
The industrial revolution changed all that. Now only the most ardent survivalist is truly self-reliant but the illusion of a now idealistic self-reliance lives on. The reality is that the definition of self-reliance has been evolving since the dawn of civilization and in turn so has the need for community. They go hand in hand as they always have.
The U.S. for the most part has been spared either the threat or the actual experience of invasion and wholesale destruction. As such the tendency is to think that we are to some degree indestructible and therefore there is no real need to pull together. In fact pulling together is really another form of socialism and is contradictory to our core beliefs. This way of thinking is also a remnant of a society dominated by an agrarian way of life in which most people were truly self-reliant.
The industrial revolution changed all that. Now only the most ardent survivalist is truly self-reliant but the illusion of a now idealistic self-reliance lives on. The reality is that the definition of self-reliance has been evolving since the dawn of civilization and in turn so has the need for community. They go hand in hand as they always have.
4
These comparisons are absurd. Americans are famously conformist. Much of American fiction of the past century takes this conformity as part of its theme. Our 'excess' is part and parcel of this conformity and, as a matter of economic fact, our economy is reliant on overconsumption.
We are also markedly gullible, passive and unwilling to stand up for our rights. Europeans are quick to organize and demonstrate. They are better educated. Their intellectual communities are far more prominent in the cultures of their respective countries than are ours.
We are also markedly gullible, passive and unwilling to stand up for our rights. Europeans are quick to organize and demonstrate. They are better educated. Their intellectual communities are far more prominent in the cultures of their respective countries than are ours.
11
After a 3-month study-trip to Europe, between my sophomore and junior high school years, I wrote a paper for my economics teacher along the lines of "Why Europe Is Superior to America As a Place to Live". Whether his right-wing or my "Summer-of-Love" orientations had anything to do with it, I'll never know, but I received a grade of 'C-'. (This was, by the way, circa 1966-67.)
Informing my German teacher that I was seriously considering becoming an ex-pat, even a Swiss citizen, he complained that I didn't want to do that: "Everything happens in America."
I subsequently worked for three years in Switzerland, in classic, Old World hotels, in Luzern, Ascona, Davos and Klosters, and discovered that I was a little bit right and a little bit wrong.
Mr. Cohen's essay resonated with me in so many ways--the "happiness index" studies that consistently rank European countries (Switzerland, Denmark, Sweden, etc.) as the happiest, with the USA usually coming in a dismal 15th or 20th, as well as the book "The Geography of Bliss," which equates Switzerland's happiness with boredom.
The phrase that stood out more to me than any other in the piece was the European desire to yearn for decency and society as a "guarantor of decency". It brought to mind a response from Karl Ove Knausgaard in his epic "My Struggle". When asked why he was not going to pursue a biography of a revered Norwegian poet who went insane, he simply said, "Consideration. Manners. Decency."
Informing my German teacher that I was seriously considering becoming an ex-pat, even a Swiss citizen, he complained that I didn't want to do that: "Everything happens in America."
I subsequently worked for three years in Switzerland, in classic, Old World hotels, in Luzern, Ascona, Davos and Klosters, and discovered that I was a little bit right and a little bit wrong.
Mr. Cohen's essay resonated with me in so many ways--the "happiness index" studies that consistently rank European countries (Switzerland, Denmark, Sweden, etc.) as the happiest, with the USA usually coming in a dismal 15th or 20th, as well as the book "The Geography of Bliss," which equates Switzerland's happiness with boredom.
The phrase that stood out more to me than any other in the piece was the European desire to yearn for decency and society as a "guarantor of decency". It brought to mind a response from Karl Ove Knausgaard in his epic "My Struggle". When asked why he was not going to pursue a biography of a revered Norwegian poet who went insane, he simply said, "Consideration. Manners. Decency."
6
I prefer to look at things another way, and interpret individualism as the ultimate form of selfishness.
American society, for the most part--not always, because there are wonderful examples of true community and compassion for fellow citizens--is so focused on individual wants and needs that it creates a sort of narcissistic hubris. The examples given of true excess--giving into desires that become excessive, creating new problems--also speak to the fact of the American belief in fix-its. Too fat? There's a pill or a surgery for that. Can't stop smoking? Chew some gum. Can't breathe the air? Move out west. And so on.
Problem is, the solutions or quick-fixes aren't always readily available for the problems at hand. Take the problem of trash: it's building up all over but the only true way to help it, is to recycle--something few want to do unless mandated. In fact, unless there are mandates of any kind, Americans tend to act in the most boorish, selfish ways, unconcerned about the impact of their behavior on others. You see it in driving habits too--it's always "me, me, me first" on the road.
The typical American is like an undisciplined teenager, making messes and expecting somebody else to clean up. It's not a very admirable way to live, and calling it "self-reliance" is a poor excuse for simply demanding to do what one wants, when one wants to, and the public (or fellow citizens) be damned.
American society, for the most part--not always, because there are wonderful examples of true community and compassion for fellow citizens--is so focused on individual wants and needs that it creates a sort of narcissistic hubris. The examples given of true excess--giving into desires that become excessive, creating new problems--also speak to the fact of the American belief in fix-its. Too fat? There's a pill or a surgery for that. Can't stop smoking? Chew some gum. Can't breathe the air? Move out west. And so on.
Problem is, the solutions or quick-fixes aren't always readily available for the problems at hand. Take the problem of trash: it's building up all over but the only true way to help it, is to recycle--something few want to do unless mandated. In fact, unless there are mandates of any kind, Americans tend to act in the most boorish, selfish ways, unconcerned about the impact of their behavior on others. You see it in driving habits too--it's always "me, me, me first" on the road.
The typical American is like an undisciplined teenager, making messes and expecting somebody else to clean up. It's not a very admirable way to live, and calling it "self-reliance" is a poor excuse for simply demanding to do what one wants, when one wants to, and the public (or fellow citizens) be damned.
10
I've lived about half and half my life in the UK and USA and travel between the two frequently, and much of what Roger Cohen writes rings true. Certainly, moving between any major European city and a similar US city is like stepping back in time: dirty, difficult and public spaces crumbling away.
So, two other thoughts.
1.) Compared to our European cousins my fellow citizens seem to lack pride in America. Why else would they let things get into such a state. It didn't use to be the case. We once had the best of everything from roads, to rail, to airlines, to public education and even government. Now we don't care about America as an ideal.
2.) Maybe it's because we are just more gullible than our cousins. We've bought the Horatio Alger - Ayn Rand - Regan - Koch lies about 'individualism' so we've become turkeys voting for Christmas. We'd rather give a rich man a subsidy than spend a dime on the country. The 20th Century taught our cousins to be skeptical of demagoguery. I guess we haven't learnt those lessons. Yet.
So, two other thoughts.
1.) Compared to our European cousins my fellow citizens seem to lack pride in America. Why else would they let things get into such a state. It didn't use to be the case. We once had the best of everything from roads, to rail, to airlines, to public education and even government. Now we don't care about America as an ideal.
2.) Maybe it's because we are just more gullible than our cousins. We've bought the Horatio Alger - Ayn Rand - Regan - Koch lies about 'individualism' so we've become turkeys voting for Christmas. We'd rather give a rich man a subsidy than spend a dime on the country. The 20th Century taught our cousins to be skeptical of demagoguery. I guess we haven't learnt those lessons. Yet.
16
I am always struck by the blindness of those who decry government regulation on vital institutions in spite of the demonstrated reality that without enforced oversight, corporations and institutions of commerce (ie: banking) have repeatedly and infamously taken the expedient and/or profit-driven path regardless of the long-term consequences for all.
The struggle to resolve the balance between individual liberty and reasonable restraints on selfish gratifications and corporate greed will determine the longevity of this country, or at least the quality of life to be lived here. Not too much of a stretch to imagine it is the major determining factor to the survival of species Homo Sapiens.
The struggle to resolve the balance between individual liberty and reasonable restraints on selfish gratifications and corporate greed will determine the longevity of this country, or at least the quality of life to be lived here. Not too much of a stretch to imagine it is the major determining factor to the survival of species Homo Sapiens.
2
I would point out that it's not just love of individualism that makes Americans suspicious of government and regulations; it's the extremely poor record of efficiency of federal, state and local government offices and programs, compared with the private sector.
I feel that it's a red herring to compare smaller, much more homogeneous European countries with the US. Americans simply do not have much of a sense of shared responsibility to any government entity. Government employees here are much more likely to take personal advantage of taxpayer dollars and bureaucratic largess.
Incidentally, obesity rates seem to be extremely high among those on public assistance, so government involvement doesn't seem to have any effect on Americans' eating habits.
I feel that it's a red herring to compare smaller, much more homogeneous European countries with the US. Americans simply do not have much of a sense of shared responsibility to any government entity. Government employees here are much more likely to take personal advantage of taxpayer dollars and bureaucratic largess.
Incidentally, obesity rates seem to be extremely high among those on public assistance, so government involvement doesn't seem to have any effect on Americans' eating habits.
3
In the case of all the areas you list as our deficiencies, the blame lies squarely with the "public servants" that squander the trust and resources of the public they claim to serve.
There is no shortage of revenue that flows into our local, city, state and federal coffers, it is the inefficiency and misuse of this precious capital that leaves us where we are today.
When I choose to live in a place like NYC, I enter into a social contract with NYC and NY State that I agree to pay my "fair share" of taxes and fees for use of public services in return for absolution of my responsibility to maintain and provide those services. If the City and State are unable to live up to their side of this social contract, why do I need to be penalized for their incompetence?
Also if we are at a point where renegotiation of cost is necessary due to their poor planning and execution, I expect a penalty to be assessed, either by a forced independent review on privatization options, or forced reduction in benefits and services of the public servants responsible for the shortfall in service quality being provided.
The one thing I will not tolerate is any reduction of my personal freedom to pursue my life goals without state interference, especially when the balance of the reduction of my personal freedom is placing more trust and resources under the control of public bureaucrats with an abysmal track record.
There is no shortage of revenue that flows into our local, city, state and federal coffers, it is the inefficiency and misuse of this precious capital that leaves us where we are today.
When I choose to live in a place like NYC, I enter into a social contract with NYC and NY State that I agree to pay my "fair share" of taxes and fees for use of public services in return for absolution of my responsibility to maintain and provide those services. If the City and State are unable to live up to their side of this social contract, why do I need to be penalized for their incompetence?
Also if we are at a point where renegotiation of cost is necessary due to their poor planning and execution, I expect a penalty to be assessed, either by a forced independent review on privatization options, or forced reduction in benefits and services of the public servants responsible for the shortfall in service quality being provided.
The one thing I will not tolerate is any reduction of my personal freedom to pursue my life goals without state interference, especially when the balance of the reduction of my personal freedom is placing more trust and resources under the control of public bureaucrats with an abysmal track record.
When I was a teenager, admittedly fifty years ago, my family went to Europe and did a two-month grand tour. We purchased a VW and picked it up at the factory, driving about the continent and vacationing much as a European family might. We avoided the Hilton and stayed at small pensions and dined at out-of-the-way local eateries. For lunch we'd buy bread cheese and fruit and picnic by the side of the road. I had the time of my life. When we returned home, the contrast was jarring.
I've never forgotten that trip. I still viscerally feel the difference between here and the continent, despite the fact that I've never been back. I long for the pleasures of that wonderful summer, knowing that Europe is somewhat more like us now, though I hope not excessively so.
Our life here seems to be characterized by addictions, whether it's food or fuel. We defend to the death the right to destroy ourselves, be it by hydrocarbons or carbohydrates. Our political system seems to prey on this, pandering to our compulsions and excesses--while making the plutocracy ever richer. Eat what you want, get fat, and vote for the candidate that wants to abolish the cobbled together Obamacare. The process of elections here is an odd mixture of special interest financial excess that lasts for months coupled with increasingly restricted voter access, also promoted by special interests. And the electorate consistently votes against their own self-interest, all in the name of freedom.
I've never forgotten that trip. I still viscerally feel the difference between here and the continent, despite the fact that I've never been back. I long for the pleasures of that wonderful summer, knowing that Europe is somewhat more like us now, though I hope not excessively so.
Our life here seems to be characterized by addictions, whether it's food or fuel. We defend to the death the right to destroy ourselves, be it by hydrocarbons or carbohydrates. Our political system seems to prey on this, pandering to our compulsions and excesses--while making the plutocracy ever richer. Eat what you want, get fat, and vote for the candidate that wants to abolish the cobbled together Obamacare. The process of elections here is an odd mixture of special interest financial excess that lasts for months coupled with increasingly restricted voter access, also promoted by special interests. And the electorate consistently votes against their own self-interest, all in the name of freedom.
9
It's weird how this discussion has devolved into "fatty bashing". Lots of Europeans are fat today. This is not 1955.
Also: do you think that lower obesity rates in Europe are because the nanny state government somehow "makes" people eat less? or taxes their body fat? or denies them health care?
Lastly: nobody votes against their self-interest. The problem is YOU -- lefty liberals -- who want to DEFINE my self-interest FOR ME. And you can't.
Also: do you think that lower obesity rates in Europe are because the nanny state government somehow "makes" people eat less? or taxes their body fat? or denies them health care?
Lastly: nobody votes against their self-interest. The problem is YOU -- lefty liberals -- who want to DEFINE my self-interest FOR ME. And you can't.
"Europeans, with two 20th-century experiences of cataclysmic societal fracture, are bound to the idea of social solidarity as prudent safeguard and guarantor of human decency. "
Tell that to the Greeks and their Muslim immigrants.
Tell that to the Greeks and their Muslim immigrants.
2
On a grand scale, Mr. Cohen captures a key difference between many of us and Europeans. I don't think Mr. Cohen really shares those attributes he cites regarding the US, but is more favorably inclined towards the statist European Models, including the European Union which has been constructed by the Elites of Europe and pushed down to the countries/"states" and is now in near paralysis.
Puerto Rico is an example of a model that is much more along the European lines of heavy government subsidy. Lots of tax breaks to get Drug companies there for manufacturing. And now, a near totally government subsidy economy and like Greece, on the rocks. We have problems here, no doubt of that, but is the answer Government providing more for the people.... Puerto Rico????Greece???? Surely more dependency isn't the answer....either.
Puerto Rico is an example of a model that is much more along the European lines of heavy government subsidy. Lots of tax breaks to get Drug companies there for manufacturing. And now, a near totally government subsidy economy and like Greece, on the rocks. We have problems here, no doubt of that, but is the answer Government providing more for the people.... Puerto Rico????Greece???? Surely more dependency isn't the answer....either.
2
A good article from Cohen. However it fails to clearly mark the political changes in America that have driven the differences with other advanced nations. When I first came to the US in 1975, just as there were still liberal Republicans and conservative Democrats so the country would never have tolerated the idea of a crumbling infrastructure. While there was healthy debate over the role of government, there was much less on the essentials. America was moving towards combining some of the traits of a more activist government to build and retain a decent safety net, to maintain and improve its essential infrastructure, with that dynamism and entrepreneurial energy that is the hallmark of America.
But the rise of a more extreme form of conservatism in media and in politics (the one often driving the other) has changed everything. It's no accident that the South of the US lags in every economic and social indicator including poverty, health, obesity violence and the well being of its children. And while plenty of conservatives live elsewhere, the South is the heart and soul of a GOP that seeks to make the rest of the country in the South's image of meager government services, low wages and high rates of uninsured which, in turn, often lead to the unhealthy choices made primarily by those in poverty and with low-income.
We must not allow a mindless anti-government vitriol to send us marching backwards under the false label of individualism.
But the rise of a more extreme form of conservatism in media and in politics (the one often driving the other) has changed everything. It's no accident that the South of the US lags in every economic and social indicator including poverty, health, obesity violence and the well being of its children. And while plenty of conservatives live elsewhere, the South is the heart and soul of a GOP that seeks to make the rest of the country in the South's image of meager government services, low wages and high rates of uninsured which, in turn, often lead to the unhealthy choices made primarily by those in poverty and with low-income.
We must not allow a mindless anti-government vitriol to send us marching backwards under the false label of individualism.
40
Stereotypes are always fun to chat about, such as Europe being one big museum where everybody whiles away their time on wellfare and America is creative, but has poor public service. However, it is a good idea to compare with experience.
I traveled this spring from Washington DC to LA and saw indeed some crumbling infrastructure: highway 66 is a mess (and a sort of museum), but you can also take I-30 which is nice. The Blue Ridge highway was of course built in the days that the States were social-democratic, but it is still a great and magnificent road. For the rest I experienced very good roads and saw dozens of road repair/renewal projects.
On the other hand: I live in Europe and run a company with really minimal government interference. My kids are in their thirties and I see a lot of creativity in them and among their friends and many of them are starting companies. More people than ever are now self-employed so that (despite the European/Dutch rigid labor market) there is a lot of flexibility in the economy.
Despite all the horror stories about Greece I can tell from experience that the country functions like normal and it is a great place to visit. Europe may be a (comfortable) museum, but it is certainly not dead.
So, it is always fashionable (especially in crisis times) to emphasize stereotype but it may have bearing on reality.
I traveled this spring from Washington DC to LA and saw indeed some crumbling infrastructure: highway 66 is a mess (and a sort of museum), but you can also take I-30 which is nice. The Blue Ridge highway was of course built in the days that the States were social-democratic, but it is still a great and magnificent road. For the rest I experienced very good roads and saw dozens of road repair/renewal projects.
On the other hand: I live in Europe and run a company with really minimal government interference. My kids are in their thirties and I see a lot of creativity in them and among their friends and many of them are starting companies. More people than ever are now self-employed so that (despite the European/Dutch rigid labor market) there is a lot of flexibility in the economy.
Despite all the horror stories about Greece I can tell from experience that the country functions like normal and it is a great place to visit. Europe may be a (comfortable) museum, but it is certainly not dead.
So, it is always fashionable (especially in crisis times) to emphasize stereotype but it may have bearing on reality.
10
The percentage of Americans (it isn't all) who hold sacred the sophomoric Ayn Rand ethos do not do so because of some hard-wired genetic American trait. It is learned. Or more to the point, it is inculcated. Our brand of capitalism and neoclassical economics requires perpetual growth and perpetual consumption. Our system needs it to survive. Shareholders need it to ensure that they can die rich.
But yes - even John Kerry, who is lauded as very proactive on climate, keeps saying plenty about green energy and efficiencies, but not a single word towards questioning the way we consume and how we measure quality of life. No American politician will touch that.
Our economic model is eating itself, breeding incuriosity, and greatly aggravating climate change, but we don't want to hear it if it means we can't buy cheap t-shirts made by slave labor.
But yes - even John Kerry, who is lauded as very proactive on climate, keeps saying plenty about green energy and efficiencies, but not a single word towards questioning the way we consume and how we measure quality of life. No American politician will touch that.
Our economic model is eating itself, breeding incuriosity, and greatly aggravating climate change, but we don't want to hear it if it means we can't buy cheap t-shirts made by slave labor.
7
I've lived in American and France, as well as in ten other countries. The difference I see: the French are citizens; Americans are just consumers.
23
Something being left out is the American invention of marketing & planned obsolescence. All our innovative products weren't consumed for their virtues, the Supply Side model needed to manufacture demand.
Notwithstanding the myth of American exceptionalism & nearly a century of unchecked rampant manufactured demand for American military-industrial mischief backed by its own public/private partnership to create vast & unwarranted demand, market-driven 'innovation' has made a mess of the American cultural digestion & destroyed the landscape.
The marketers have tapped into increasingly pathological selfish impulses, generating a diseased state of insecurity & neediness to generate consumption. This has in turn manufactured generations of this self-obsessed, overfed, celebrity & brand-soaked mediocracy. If Americans really did believe in individualism they wouldn't have been so easily manipulated to buy into manufactured markets.
People do come back to some sort of homeostasis when their consumption compulsion isn't constantly revved by master-marketers preying on the American psyche. A huge problem for americans and any prospect for a more intelligent consumption is their inability to separate themselves from the insidious saturation of marketers.
Notwithstanding the myth of American exceptionalism & nearly a century of unchecked rampant manufactured demand for American military-industrial mischief backed by its own public/private partnership to create vast & unwarranted demand, market-driven 'innovation' has made a mess of the American cultural digestion & destroyed the landscape.
The marketers have tapped into increasingly pathological selfish impulses, generating a diseased state of insecurity & neediness to generate consumption. This has in turn manufactured generations of this self-obsessed, overfed, celebrity & brand-soaked mediocracy. If Americans really did believe in individualism they wouldn't have been so easily manipulated to buy into manufactured markets.
People do come back to some sort of homeostasis when their consumption compulsion isn't constantly revved by master-marketers preying on the American psyche. A huge problem for americans and any prospect for a more intelligent consumption is their inability to separate themselves from the insidious saturation of marketers.
5
Americans are "hardwired to the notion of individual self-reliance" - the key part being the 'notion', not the fact.
Americans appear more delusional about self-reliance than others. This country has, and has had, subsidies and welfare programs that dwarf those of most other nations, they are just not aimed at the same people.
We, the US Government, gave away vast stretches of land to the railroads (large corporations) as well as to prospectors. We expropriate private lands through "eminent domain" so developers can prosper. We help feed and clothe underpaid workers at Wall Mart so its founders can remain among the wealthiest individuals on the planet. We gave away the internet, radio frequencies, etc. so that private companies and their shareholders can flourish. We routinely socialize the costs and privatize the rewards. That is not 'rugged individualism' that is suckling at the teat of government.
We just don't hand checks to poor people.
Americans appear more delusional about self-reliance than others. This country has, and has had, subsidies and welfare programs that dwarf those of most other nations, they are just not aimed at the same people.
We, the US Government, gave away vast stretches of land to the railroads (large corporations) as well as to prospectors. We expropriate private lands through "eminent domain" so developers can prosper. We help feed and clothe underpaid workers at Wall Mart so its founders can remain among the wealthiest individuals on the planet. We gave away the internet, radio frequencies, etc. so that private companies and their shareholders can flourish. We routinely socialize the costs and privatize the rewards. That is not 'rugged individualism' that is suckling at the teat of government.
We just don't hand checks to poor people.
20
I traveled to Europe in 2006/2007 and again in 2014. On my first trip, I was amazed by the Eurostar, the roomy but economical small cars, the efficiency and cleanliness of Berlin's Tegel and London's Stansted airports as well as the public transit systems of London, Paris and Berlin. I could not understand why European systems could tell me when the next train was coming and, with the exception of BART, American transit systems could not. I returned to Chicago and the train haltingly crawled downtown. Move the clock ahead seven years and with the exception of economically vibrant London where I found the commuter trains packed with men and women dressed in the finest suits with their laptops omnipresent, I arrived at the Brussels rail station to find the train schedules printed on paper, the escalators inoperable on a Sunday evening and the rail cars dirty and toilets closed. On the Paris Metro everyone seemed to be in a state of depression. Back in Chicago, there are cranes going up everywhere downtown, Google and Uber are expanding their offices here, to name two, the bus shelters and the transit stops all announce the arrivals of the next trains and they are rebuilding our major highway junction and today announced major renovations to our smaller airport. Yes, the homeless are ubiquitous on our streets, and Amtrak is a disgrace, but from what I saw, the Continent seemed aimless, with the exception of the Netherlands, while we seem vibrant.
3
We are all faced with the common problem of existence but how we choose to deal with this fact can either bring peace and acceptance to our personal state or a denial which has truly frightening consequences for others who share our world.
Obesity is clearly an indication of excess which like any other is an aberrancy infecting some people from their earliest memories. My youngest son who is now grown was overweight throughout his childhood and as he recently explained to me he considered this to be a result of my lack of support and care for him throughout most of his early youth and adolescence. He further mentioned, almost casually, the thought of suicide had entered his mind more than once because he felt unwanted and out of place in his home.
I was certainly oblivious to his plight and rather than sitting down with him to discuss his obvious problem I simply proffered criticism which only caused him to further withdraw and eat more.
My own vanity, thinking the success of my business which demanded long hours but great financial reward, never allowed me to look past that mirror to see the true responsibilities I had helped bring into the world. I never looked to see his world, his brother's or for that matter his mother's. The fact is my success brought them almost anything they wanted except a most important need for my love, care and respect.
I consider this a parable for all of us who only allow ourselves to see success in measurable, monetary terms
Obesity is clearly an indication of excess which like any other is an aberrancy infecting some people from their earliest memories. My youngest son who is now grown was overweight throughout his childhood and as he recently explained to me he considered this to be a result of my lack of support and care for him throughout most of his early youth and adolescence. He further mentioned, almost casually, the thought of suicide had entered his mind more than once because he felt unwanted and out of place in his home.
I was certainly oblivious to his plight and rather than sitting down with him to discuss his obvious problem I simply proffered criticism which only caused him to further withdraw and eat more.
My own vanity, thinking the success of my business which demanded long hours but great financial reward, never allowed me to look past that mirror to see the true responsibilities I had helped bring into the world. I never looked to see his world, his brother's or for that matter his mother's. The fact is my success brought them almost anything they wanted except a most important need for my love, care and respect.
I consider this a parable for all of us who only allow ourselves to see success in measurable, monetary terms
6
I can't recall a more simplistic column in a long time. The "crumbling infrastructure" comment is a joke, really. Driving around the US vs. believing the media hype will disabuse anyone of that notion. Europe as the vanguard of environmentalism and a leader in climate change are two more myths. (I lived in Europe for six years, btw). The US introduced lead-free gasoline while Europe was still claiming it was uneconomical. The US has reclaimed more rivers and cleaned more air than Europe has done or has any plans to do. If anyone in Europe has a choice between a Europe based vs. US based travel organization (airline, cruise, tour operator, etc.), they pick the US based one every time, if they can. Why? because of their confidence that US laws that govern will protect them as consumers and travelers (think safety net).
Mr. Coehen not only doesn't truly understand the US, he mythologizes Europe as well.
Mr. Coehen not only doesn't truly understand the US, he mythologizes Europe as well.
4
It is not just Mr. Cohen. It is an absolute part of lefty liberal DOGMA that "Europe is perfect" and that American is awful, and why can't America be just like Europe?
Followed by "all Americans are fat" and apparently all Europeans are model-thin and super-healthy. Of course, no science or statistics bears out that perfection.
A lot of lefties have vacationed in Europe, conveniently seeing only the prettiest tourist spots, and nicest infrastructure and of course, gourmet restaurants -- so they think ALL of Europe is just like that. No poverty. No guest workers. No banleius. Just rich people shopping in Paris. And they LOVE LOVE LOVE IT.
They also think that "everything in Europe is free", conveniently forgetting the high taxes and VATs.
Followed by "all Americans are fat" and apparently all Europeans are model-thin and super-healthy. Of course, no science or statistics bears out that perfection.
A lot of lefties have vacationed in Europe, conveniently seeing only the prettiest tourist spots, and nicest infrastructure and of course, gourmet restaurants -- so they think ALL of Europe is just like that. No poverty. No guest workers. No banleius. Just rich people shopping in Paris. And they LOVE LOVE LOVE IT.
They also think that "everything in Europe is free", conveniently forgetting the high taxes and VATs.
Whether you like Europe or America better is immaterial, and there are differences between individual nations within the European continent. Overall, I agree with Mr. Cohen that the U.S. would benefit from more emphasis on what is good for a nation as a whole, and less emphasis on what any one individual can achieve for him or herself. Research has shown that in spite of the celebrated economic freedoms of the U.S. socioeconomic mobility is higher in most European nations than in the U.S. We outdo them in our illusion of mobility. Along these same lines, we could do with more trust in government and better government. We can't trust government to do a good job of taking care of the country when it is run by the corporate plutocracy. Without meaningful reform of the electoral system, we shouldn't trust our government to look after the people. The record shows that the government does a better job of taking care of corporate America than the average citizen.
288
Excellent and thoughtful analysis
" there are differences between individual nations within the European continent. "
Just as there are differences between individual nations within the American continents-- America is not a country.
Just as there are differences between individual nations within the American continents-- America is not a country.
At this moment Europe's only problem is its monetary system, it needs an total remake.
1
As a naturalized citizen of the US, I have a completely different take on this. America has given me and my family an opportunity here which I would not have got in any European country. I love America. I have travelled abroad to many European (especially Western European) countries many time and think that life there is very good too. However, I wouldn't stand a chance of doing as well as I did in the US. This goes for my kids too who are all born in the US and attend fine US colleges and plan on doing as well if not better. Our circle of friends who are likewise new immigrants from southwest Asia are also as optimistic about America and would never think about moving anywhere else. This does not make America perfect. Yes, we need changes to our Medical system, educations system and political system, but America is still the land of opportunity and advancement. I seriously doubt if immigrants in European countries (who normally are at the bottom of the economic rung) will ever have the same opportunity as I did here in the US. Yes I do attribute this to my education and work ethics but given the same in Europe, I would still not get as far as I have gotten in the US.
5
I have been spending 4-6 weeks in Europe every two years for my entire life. I have never read so cogent a description of the culture shock of returning. I have been saying as much for years. What I never understood was how, if we are so 'dynamic' and we 'rev instead of purr', why can't we get it together to build and maintain infrastructure?
5
The meme of the rugged individualist American is mostly false - especially in sparsely populated regions of our country. Also, Americans are not hardwired to distrust government.
Distrust of democratic governance is a uniquely conservative idea. Because their policies led to the crash of 1929, conservatives were cast out of power until the generations that suffered under their cruel world view had mostly died off. We trusted our government from FDR, until Ronald Reagan. He got many of us born long after the Great Depression embrace his infamous "Ten Most Dangerous Words in the English Language." The nation's wealth has been redistributed upwards ever since, with devastating effects on the middle class.
Our infrastructure and cities are crumbling because conservatives decided their ideology of tax cuts and siphoning resources out of society was more important than maintaining our nation. Fortunately, the conservative grip on our nation is in decline. The only reason they weren't ousted in the last elections is their successful combination of voter suppression and gerrymandering. They moved middle class jobs offshore because they placed their profits over our nation. They dragged us into Iraq and crashed our economy. But history is against them. History will mark the Occupy Movement as the turning point. We will drag the conservatives into the second half of 21st century, kicking and screaming - just like we dragged them into the second half of the 20th century.
Distrust of democratic governance is a uniquely conservative idea. Because their policies led to the crash of 1929, conservatives were cast out of power until the generations that suffered under their cruel world view had mostly died off. We trusted our government from FDR, until Ronald Reagan. He got many of us born long after the Great Depression embrace his infamous "Ten Most Dangerous Words in the English Language." The nation's wealth has been redistributed upwards ever since, with devastating effects on the middle class.
Our infrastructure and cities are crumbling because conservatives decided their ideology of tax cuts and siphoning resources out of society was more important than maintaining our nation. Fortunately, the conservative grip on our nation is in decline. The only reason they weren't ousted in the last elections is their successful combination of voter suppression and gerrymandering. They moved middle class jobs offshore because they placed their profits over our nation. They dragged us into Iraq and crashed our economy. But history is against them. History will mark the Occupy Movement as the turning point. We will drag the conservatives into the second half of 21st century, kicking and screaming - just like we dragged them into the second half of the 20th century.
4
Thank you Roger. I am sometimes not at all in agreement with you, yet after having lived 35 + years in a small French wine making village of 200 souls, with immediate access to one of France's largest cities, hélas you have spoken the larger truth, evident to any French person who has passed an extended stay in the United States. A difficult personal and professional challenge: a colulm that attempts to address the question of why. I'm counting on you to rise to that challenge.
1
I was born in Europe, and for years I have longed for the cleanliness, good infrastructure, beautiful plazas and outdoor cafes. I had had it all, but, in spite of the fact that I and my family lived there for over 500 years, the government of the country I was born in one day decided that we were not loyal enough to stay there. The United States welcomed us, and, every time I miss 'home', I remember why I am here. America's welcoming us trumps all that Europe has had to offer, for here I feel that I do belong.
2
...Which is why reviving a culture of philanthropy—private initiatives for public good, focusing on quality of life—which informed the American Revolution and Constitution in voluntary associations and the lives of our Founders, and in the 19th century the anti-slavery and early women's suffrage movements, is what America needs most today.
1
America's appetite for excess will be tempered by change. There are generations that are alive now that grew up in an America beset by commercial activity that laid out abundance as cheap easy and ready to eat at a moments notice.
It was an America that you could have it all. But we are now starting to suffer for the waste of such a vision. So the air is dirty, the water is polluted and we are still believing in a model of life that is not sustainable.
You can't pump our aquifers dry to grow hay to feed cattle for cheap $.99 hamburgers. You can't concentrate wealth and not expect unrest and you positively have to have a political system that looks out for the people and prepares for the future.
When gas reached $4 -5 a gallon a few years ago, the idea that you could live in the suburbs and drive a guzzling SUV were torn asunder. Entire industries built on servicing that model died out. The America auto industry hung by a lifeline.
You see change was forced upon us, we did not plan for the days of $4 gas at all.
And it hurt.
There will be more limits placed on American excess, and knowing Americans it was be violent and unexpected because we still want our cheap gas, our $.99 hamburger, houses that are too large and the ability to enjoy consumption that is just not possible
It was an America that you could have it all. But we are now starting to suffer for the waste of such a vision. So the air is dirty, the water is polluted and we are still believing in a model of life that is not sustainable.
You can't pump our aquifers dry to grow hay to feed cattle for cheap $.99 hamburgers. You can't concentrate wealth and not expect unrest and you positively have to have a political system that looks out for the people and prepares for the future.
When gas reached $4 -5 a gallon a few years ago, the idea that you could live in the suburbs and drive a guzzling SUV were torn asunder. Entire industries built on servicing that model died out. The America auto industry hung by a lifeline.
You see change was forced upon us, we did not plan for the days of $4 gas at all.
And it hurt.
There will be more limits placed on American excess, and knowing Americans it was be violent and unexpected because we still want our cheap gas, our $.99 hamburger, houses that are too large and the ability to enjoy consumption that is just not possible
2
The great Albert Camus observed on his visit to America in the late '40s..."In this country where everything (italicized) is done to prove that life isn't tragic, they feel something is missing. This great effort is pathetic, but one must reject the tragic after (italicized) having looked at it, not before."
In his book, American Journals, Camus issues one astoundingly perceptive comment after another on American life, interspersed with his unerring ability to connect with the finest minds of that time for their take on our perplexing nation. I'm sure he would have enjoyed meeting with Roger Cohen.
In his book, American Journals, Camus issues one astoundingly perceptive comment after another on American life, interspersed with his unerring ability to connect with the finest minds of that time for their take on our perplexing nation. I'm sure he would have enjoyed meeting with Roger Cohen.
3
I admire Pew greatly, but I'm suspicious of their definition of freedom. Cross-cultural surveys are always difficult. Ask an Irishman about freedom, or a Montana farmer...
2
Don't forget, much of our most prominent religion is spouting a "prosperity gospel" would seem to endorse just such over consumption as a sign of god's blessings.
4
The America described here is ... really quite disgusting. It is selfish, fat and, frankly, unsocialized for civilized living. A society that is so drugged by its obsession with individualism that it disregards facts, science and historical experience.
Unfortunately this description sounds entirely accurate.
Unfortunately this description sounds entirely accurate.
5
Columbus discovered America commercially for Europe, not literally. He was our first entrepreneur, and Queen Isabella our first venture capitalist. It has been so since, those who get in the way be damned. So I have seen government's role as referee between citizens aiming to get by day to day and commercial interests whose goal is to exploit our resources for profit.
But the system is corrupt because those profiting from our resources generate vast funds to relentlessly propagandize, lobby and sponsor commercial advocates. We exist in an ocean of advertising and propaganda (a conservative estimate of 3,000 ads a day, not including political propaganda), so one could question the extent to which our values are even our own. The commercial interests have all the tools to shape and enforce our values. Those advancing profit-making (sometimes by swindling the general population) are generously rewarded, from obscene bonuses to lucrative jobs upon leaving influential government positions. Those without resources to protect themselves are proper prey, even by government agencies (witness Ferguson's predatory arrest and prosecution of its own residents). CEO's state outright that the nation's problems aren't their company's problems.
Given that this heedless commercialism takes zero responsibility for its consequences, most prominently global heating, I despair for future generations.
But the system is corrupt because those profiting from our resources generate vast funds to relentlessly propagandize, lobby and sponsor commercial advocates. We exist in an ocean of advertising and propaganda (a conservative estimate of 3,000 ads a day, not including political propaganda), so one could question the extent to which our values are even our own. The commercial interests have all the tools to shape and enforce our values. Those advancing profit-making (sometimes by swindling the general population) are generously rewarded, from obscene bonuses to lucrative jobs upon leaving influential government positions. Those without resources to protect themselves are proper prey, even by government agencies (witness Ferguson's predatory arrest and prosecution of its own residents). CEO's state outright that the nation's problems aren't their company's problems.
Given that this heedless commercialism takes zero responsibility for its consequences, most prominently global heating, I despair for future generations.
1
American individualism which is previously based on sixth sense , is now running empty with NRA.
In fact , the people who are advocating individualism doesn't look like individualism, it is more mad-maxims like, Riding loud Harleys, carrying AR15 etc. This is not individualism, because Right wing is not created in USA, There is Australia which banned assault guns right after the big mass shooting in 1990's by a right wing government.
The problem with America today mainly originating from Republican party side, their view of America is not matching %50 of America and rest of the world, and yet they are insisting theirs is the true American soul.
Then you are witnessing a presidential candidate is spewing filth against another past presidential candidate which is just despicable but lunatic fringe is embracing that person.
America is polarized , one part is stagnant , they really yearn FDR, Eisenhower time America but they do not want to utter their name. Other part of America is an understanding and already integrated with the rest of the world.
In fact , the people who are advocating individualism doesn't look like individualism, it is more mad-maxims like, Riding loud Harleys, carrying AR15 etc. This is not individualism, because Right wing is not created in USA, There is Australia which banned assault guns right after the big mass shooting in 1990's by a right wing government.
The problem with America today mainly originating from Republican party side, their view of America is not matching %50 of America and rest of the world, and yet they are insisting theirs is the true American soul.
Then you are witnessing a presidential candidate is spewing filth against another past presidential candidate which is just despicable but lunatic fringe is embracing that person.
America is polarized , one part is stagnant , they really yearn FDR, Eisenhower time America but they do not want to utter their name. Other part of America is an understanding and already integrated with the rest of the world.
One form of excess that may help promote the others is the continuous glut of advertising that gasses us daily. Someone once called it, "calculated dishonesty."
To underscore the point of this article, picture the TV commercial of the cable guy, his butt crack staring at us, as he consumes a pile of grilled sausages and the attendant accompaniments. Then, he pops the magic stomach pill and the fiery combo that ensues catapults him in flames through the sky to the ultimate bliss of immediate relief. No heartburn, no problem. Ready for another meal.
Too many of us live for the consuming moment, valuing our very breath in relation to the thrills of swallowing everything in sight.
To underscore the point of this article, picture the TV commercial of the cable guy, his butt crack staring at us, as he consumes a pile of grilled sausages and the attendant accompaniments. Then, he pops the magic stomach pill and the fiery combo that ensues catapults him in flames through the sky to the ultimate bliss of immediate relief. No heartburn, no problem. Ready for another meal.
Too many of us live for the consuming moment, valuing our very breath in relation to the thrills of swallowing everything in sight.
1
The European priorities are to spend money on world class infrastructure, social services & universal healthcare - things that directly benefit the daily lives of their citizens. The American priorities are paying for a vast military industrial complex and engaging as global policemen - not improving the daily lives of US citizens. The Europeans enjoy military protection courtesy of the US Government and it's taxpayers...European military & defense spending is insignificant and barely registers as a percentage of GDP. So, as the American domestic debate rages about healthcare spending & other social services, we subsidize foreign governments where their average citizens have better overall access to healthcare than American citizens. Americans have been sold out by members of Congress who are supposed to represent the American people. Very un-American, indeed.
8
America 's individualism is not working on solving some of the big problems in this country. In fact the rest of the world is benefiting as much as Americans or may be more from American entrepreneurship. such as Mobile tech related advancements.
Meanwhile Americas very critical problems are on hold, neither government nor entrepreneurs willing to step in.
These problems are vital , if not solved very seriously damaging.
1- Infrastructure aging
2- Gun laws.
3- Public education system
4- Prison system
5- Health system ( even after Obamacare)
Somebody can add more but these are at this moment is on waiting status and their lack of adaptation simply breaking back and neck of America and Americans.
Meanwhile Americas very critical problems are on hold, neither government nor entrepreneurs willing to step in.
These problems are vital , if not solved very seriously damaging.
1- Infrastructure aging
2- Gun laws.
3- Public education system
4- Prison system
5- Health system ( even after Obamacare)
Somebody can add more but these are at this moment is on waiting status and their lack of adaptation simply breaking back and neck of America and Americans.
2
From the perspective of an anti-war activist, I wonder how much of this difference between Europe & the U.S. has to do with the fact that the Europeans, more so than Americans, know what WAR is like, right there at their doorsteps. The appalling violence, destruction & horror of it. And they've just decided that they want no more of it & wish to live in peace and relative security. And if that means some minor curtailments of freedom, & necessary diplomacy, toning down of nationalistic-tribalism & religious fanaticism, so be it. Here in the U.S., except for veterans who have experienced war first-hand, we can still pretend war & patriotism are romantic, encouraged by the war profiteers of the military industrial complex & an iconic macho war-hero image conveyed by people who never served in war (e.g., John Wayne & Clint Eastwood).
16
I've been in Europe multiple times and I don't understand this "minor curtailment of freedoms" you are talking about. If anything, Europeans are more open and less encumbered. Plus, the Europeans understand the concept of society helping each other . They use tax money for positive social good. Health care, social services, great roads, clean cities, low crime, no guns, good schools.
1
Cohen is condemning American culture like is it some kind of monolith. Yes, we have seen a growing segment of the population become obese, but we are raising awareness and addressing the issue on many fronts. Yes, we consume more fossil fuel than any other nation, but again, we are actively addressing the issue . It is unreasonable to expect that our nation can suddenly behave like that other pseudo-monolith he mentions - Europe - or even that it should.
We are the most culturally diverse nation on the planet. The experience of those in the inner cities is vastly different than those who live in the plains of the heartland. Those employed in civil service are not living the same life as Wall Street executives. The aging population afflicted by chronic illness are unlike the toddler diagnosed with cancer. The preacher sees a different congregation than the college professor and each teaches a different lesson. The researcher looking to develop more effective cancer treatments differs from the hospice worker who is helping someone live their final days peacefully. They are all Americans. What binds us all is our democracy which promotes individual freedoms and liberties while still providing for those who cannot afford to provide for themselves. But no one claims that the United States is a utopia - like EVERY other nation, we have plenty to work on. Anyone who is dissatisfied with our nation should move to the utopian country they believe does it better.
We are the most culturally diverse nation on the planet. The experience of those in the inner cities is vastly different than those who live in the plains of the heartland. Those employed in civil service are not living the same life as Wall Street executives. The aging population afflicted by chronic illness are unlike the toddler diagnosed with cancer. The preacher sees a different congregation than the college professor and each teaches a different lesson. The researcher looking to develop more effective cancer treatments differs from the hospice worker who is helping someone live their final days peacefully. They are all Americans. What binds us all is our democracy which promotes individual freedoms and liberties while still providing for those who cannot afford to provide for themselves. But no one claims that the United States is a utopia - like EVERY other nation, we have plenty to work on. Anyone who is dissatisfied with our nation should move to the utopian country they believe does it better.
4
Where would Canada fit if the study had included it?
3
Smack dab in the middle - although our current PM, Harper (on his way out in the Oct 19 election) would like to drive us to the American side. But it's not going to happen. When I travel to the US, I feel anxiety. It leaves when I cross the border back into the Great White North. The air literally smells fresher...
1
"The question, of course, is whether America’s virtues — its creative churn, vitality and energy — are intrinsic to these vices. My own pessimistic conclusion is that they probably are."
Dead wrong! An obese person is engulfed by lassitude -self hatred and psychic entropy!
Vitality and energy (creative or otherwise) are the provence of mostly upscale disciplined and positively engaged individuals who represent a mostly blue state minority of Americans.
This cultural lifestyle divide is directly linked to income inequality! The red states are off the charts when it comes to obesity (with it's concommitant diseases) drug and alcohol abuse and of course lack f education and poverty.
Alexis de Tocqueville is gagging now!
Dead wrong! An obese person is engulfed by lassitude -self hatred and psychic entropy!
Vitality and energy (creative or otherwise) are the provence of mostly upscale disciplined and positively engaged individuals who represent a mostly blue state minority of Americans.
This cultural lifestyle divide is directly linked to income inequality! The red states are off the charts when it comes to obesity (with it's concommitant diseases) drug and alcohol abuse and of course lack f education and poverty.
Alexis de Tocqueville is gagging now!
1
Race is also an issue. Many European countries are racially homogeneous. It is easy too vote and build a social net when the poor look like you. In American, the rich are usually of a different race than the poor, the rich cannot see themselves in the same shoes and are less willingly to help, assigning all the problems of the poor to racial culture instead of racist attitudes and institutions.
2
As Cohen notes we are more alive and less controlled than a crowded and stagnant Europe. Thinking outside the box does not happen easily in Europe as many defer to their elders and betters. We have the freedom to choose and with that comes the freedom to fail. Clearly we have failed on obesity and could do more on Global Warming.
But are we stuck in time? Actually, I think the fact that change requires the cooperation and willingness of individuals rather than a tops down mandate makes change when we come to it more lasting and impactful. It may ultimately end up being a more thoughtful and informed from of change as well.
But are we stuck in time? Actually, I think the fact that change requires the cooperation and willingness of individuals rather than a tops down mandate makes change when we come to it more lasting and impactful. It may ultimately end up being a more thoughtful and informed from of change as well.
Mr. Cohen's comment about the "paucity of public spaces" in America is not only true but also is a reflection of the fact that in America beachfront real estate is too valuable to be used for the public. Last year I spent two weeks in France, and when in Nice I was struck by the fact that running parallel to the beach was a wonderful public park that featured playgrounds and misting water spouts and fountains. In the evening many families, instead of sitting in front of the TV, would gather in the park to chat while the children would play. When I spoke to a number of French citizens in Nice and Paris I was struck by the fact that in general they placed a much higher value on family relations than do Americans. Individualism and the urge to excel have been important to America's growth, but it's not clear where this trend will take us in the long run.
3
The US - it wasn't always this way. In the 1960s work for the government - federal, state, local - or in the field of ideas, were much admired options while working in business was far less preferred, at least among my college generation. Jack Kennedy's call to public service was answered and lingers still.
Americas state and federal governments are not integrated in sense of sociological aspect, in fact they are rivals.
Americans believe individualism, however History says opposite, more than 300 years old history America become #1 nation only after FDR administration which undisputedly Government was the leading force, WWII won, man landed on the moon.
Today almost all American citizens feel one thing, America is not as great as before ( it means not like 1940-1970 era). This is particularly prevalent in the most individualistic group, Right wing people. Their Irony is applaing but we get used to.
I agree with Cohen , If you recently visit Europe's big cities and return NY, Los Angeles etc. Feeling is America is decadent, people are alive agreed, but atmosphere is decadent.
Crystalized example is our new Freedom tower , or WTC, compared to twin towers , this architecture is decadent. In fact I f you are living in NYC, a new residential on 57th street, rectangular white taller than new WTC is more modern, however It is not a symbol, but sure it will become.
American individualism is rampant and very stimulating , however success is not coming, Think about it , Apple has 800 billion dollar value, but every body knew that Apple is not a leading computer company. It is a assembly technology, chips from Samsung, software from everywhere, nothing they have , their own invention.
Americans believe individualism, however History says opposite, more than 300 years old history America become #1 nation only after FDR administration which undisputedly Government was the leading force, WWII won, man landed on the moon.
Today almost all American citizens feel one thing, America is not as great as before ( it means not like 1940-1970 era). This is particularly prevalent in the most individualistic group, Right wing people. Their Irony is applaing but we get used to.
I agree with Cohen , If you recently visit Europe's big cities and return NY, Los Angeles etc. Feeling is America is decadent, people are alive agreed, but atmosphere is decadent.
Crystalized example is our new Freedom tower , or WTC, compared to twin towers , this architecture is decadent. In fact I f you are living in NYC, a new residential on 57th street, rectangular white taller than new WTC is more modern, however It is not a symbol, but sure it will become.
American individualism is rampant and very stimulating , however success is not coming, Think about it , Apple has 800 billion dollar value, but every body knew that Apple is not a leading computer company. It is a assembly technology, chips from Samsung, software from everywhere, nothing they have , their own invention.
2
The idealized concept of individualism and independence has some major inconsistencies: 1) why do the same companies that trumpet the merits of the invisible hand also lobby incessantly for highly specific, government-provided tax incentives, 2) how can Americans agree that everyone deserves a free education (through HS) but not a guaranteed minimum standard of health care (the market should instead provide health care), and 3) how is it that defense spending (i.e. government spending) in the U.S. accounts for about 20 percent of the federal budget, but is off limits in the discussion of the appropriate roles of the private versus public sectors? Americans want government that helps them individually, but not anyone else.
I don't know where you live, but here in Pittsburgh, infrastructure is constantly being repaired and upgraded. So much is being done, it's difficult to get anywhere. If Pittsburgh is any indication, our infrastructure problems are being addressed.
3
The individual IS the most important thing. I am the only member of the smallest minority in the world. My life is about maximizing me.
"Maximizing me" requires meaningful relationships with others.
The basis of the American spirit and culture was focused on 9/11/01. Those were Americans running "into" the burning buildings and dying to save fellow Americans. Those were Americans signing up and marching off to war. As a contrast, think about Bosnia and who had to step in on a European problem
American is a much more diverse society than Europe. Europeans are much more nationalistic. There are few non Germen leaders in business in Germany. The Belgians, a country of ten million, don't even like each other (Flemish vs Walloons). All non Germens still distrust Germany.
Europeans live closer to their roots. Many live in the same village for generations. This creates a comfort and safety factor with the status quoe. It does not engender openess to change.
Europeans are less charitable than Americans of their own will. They have church taxes and expect all needs to be taken care of by the government. As it concerns avarice, just go around Zurich, Milan, Paris, London, etc., there is no shortage in Europe. You will also notice expanding waistlines.
I don't mean to be critical of Europe or Europeans. I love the culture and the people. I would not want them to be Americanized. I think there are many things we should adopt here in the U.S., especially balance of work ethic and health care. However, I think we are too quick to criticize our American society.
American is a much more diverse society than Europe. Europeans are much more nationalistic. There are few non Germen leaders in business in Germany. The Belgians, a country of ten million, don't even like each other (Flemish vs Walloons). All non Germens still distrust Germany.
Europeans live closer to their roots. Many live in the same village for generations. This creates a comfort and safety factor with the status quoe. It does not engender openess to change.
Europeans are less charitable than Americans of their own will. They have church taxes and expect all needs to be taken care of by the government. As it concerns avarice, just go around Zurich, Milan, Paris, London, etc., there is no shortage in Europe. You will also notice expanding waistlines.
I don't mean to be critical of Europe or Europeans. I love the culture and the people. I would not want them to be Americanized. I think there are many things we should adopt here in the U.S., especially balance of work ethic and health care. However, I think we are too quick to criticize our American society.
3
Well, this is not a new commentary.
" America is the only instance in history of a nation which has passed from barbarism to decay without passing through the stage of civilization." Unknown French journalist, 1930's
http://quoteinvestigator.com/2011/12/07/barbarism-decadence/
" America is the only instance in history of a nation which has passed from barbarism to decay without passing through the stage of civilization." Unknown French journalist, 1930's
http://quoteinvestigator.com/2011/12/07/barbarism-decadence/
2
I've been an ex-pat for nearly 25 years. I travel regularly back to the states. I've watched the gulf between the US and Western Europe grow. I've watched the gulf between the US and former Eastern Europe shrink (EE is catching up).
Mr. Cohen writes, "Europe is more organized, America more alive. Europe purrs; even its hardship seems somehow muted. America revs." I would put it this way, "Europe is more organized, America more brutal. Europe purrs; even its hardship seems somehow muted. America revels in its social Darwinism."
That being said, I'm not quite so pessimistic as Roger. The pendulum might just be ready to swing back. The thousands of people who turn out for every Bernie Sanders speech are not an anomaly. The 100k+ people who joined his house parties a couple weeks ago are diverse. The youth of America are aware. If Bernie continues on this path, there is a chance to start the pendulum back towards the golden age of American growth and prosperity 40-60 years ago.
Mr. Cohen writes, "Europe is more organized, America more alive. Europe purrs; even its hardship seems somehow muted. America revs." I would put it this way, "Europe is more organized, America more brutal. Europe purrs; even its hardship seems somehow muted. America revels in its social Darwinism."
That being said, I'm not quite so pessimistic as Roger. The pendulum might just be ready to swing back. The thousands of people who turn out for every Bernie Sanders speech are not an anomaly. The 100k+ people who joined his house parties a couple weeks ago are diverse. The youth of America are aware. If Bernie continues on this path, there is a chance to start the pendulum back towards the golden age of American growth and prosperity 40-60 years ago.
3
Please tell me this. If Europe is such a virtuous paradise, how do you account for it's history of world war, murderous ideologies of fascism, Nazism and communism, and wanton colonialism. It's the individualism of the American character that has always made these extremes unattractive. Their is something to be said for not being a joiner.
2
Europeans have had the luxury of seeing their high taxes go to The People, in all the years since WWII. These countries do not have Departments of War that siphon off most of the public money and then take our treasure (and blood as well) on misadventures all over the world. I think our soldiers willingly participated in the plundering and destruction of Iraq in part because they had no frame of reference of how a great infrastructure needs to be maintained, managed and developed over time. They are accustomed to third world amenities here, so why not let them eat cake everywhere else too?
1
The US is demonstrating to the world that a rich country need not be a developed one, just as our political leaders like Senators Ted Cruz and Mitch McConnell demonstrate that even though can't stop growing old, you can always be immature.
1
“State guarantees that nobody is in need.” are generally workable (and supported by the population) mainly in racially, culturally and religiously homogeneous societies such as those found in Europe, Japan and the Scandinavian cultures. The lack of support for that in the USA is the fear of "freeloaders" like those recently arrived immigrants or minorities that prefer to mooch off hard working taxpayers rather than "shoulder their fair share". Over the years that role of "lazy freeloader" has been occupied by the Irish, the Italians, inner-city residents, and most recently by "Mexican" immigrants. That's the real dynamic behind USA versus Rest of World differences in the role of the State.
Interestingly, as the EU changes through immigration, expect this "US disdain for Government" to spread continent-wide as well. There are signs that such attitudinal changes are already surfacing.
Interestingly, as the EU changes through immigration, expect this "US disdain for Government" to spread continent-wide as well. There are signs that such attitudinal changes are already surfacing.
2
"Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me."
Take a drive through California's central valley and you will quickly learn that "lazy freeloader" is NOT a term that accurately describes the workers in the fields. These Mexican and S. American legal/illegals are essential agricultural laborers invited by farm owners/agricultural conglomerates to do the hard work that feeds us all.
They deserve our appreciation not our denigration.
As do the Chinese workers whose labor helped build the western half of the transcontinental railroad (finished 1869) - and then were dissuaded not to immigrate to the US by the Chineses Exclusion Act (1882).
As Americans, we need to live UP to our ideals.
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me."
Take a drive through California's central valley and you will quickly learn that "lazy freeloader" is NOT a term that accurately describes the workers in the fields. These Mexican and S. American legal/illegals are essential agricultural laborers invited by farm owners/agricultural conglomerates to do the hard work that feeds us all.
They deserve our appreciation not our denigration.
As do the Chinese workers whose labor helped build the western half of the transcontinental railroad (finished 1869) - and then were dissuaded not to immigrate to the US by the Chineses Exclusion Act (1882).
As Americans, we need to live UP to our ideals.
2
"in Germany, France and Spain — those considering state protection as more important than freedom from state interference rose to 62 percent those considering state protection as more important than freedom from state interference rose to 62 percent."
Yes, when it comes to social balance, healthcare, etc. ! When the subject turns to freedom of the press and privacy, the German public is way ahead compared to the US when it comes to protecting it.
If I may quote from a NYtimes article from yestderday: (http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2015/08/05/world/europe/05reuters-germany...
quote:
"The focus in Germany on defending press freedom contrasts with developments in the United States, where former U.S. spy agency contractor Edward Snowden is wanted for leaking details of massive U.S. intelligence-gathering programs."
Yes, when it comes to social balance, healthcare, etc. ! When the subject turns to freedom of the press and privacy, the German public is way ahead compared to the US when it comes to protecting it.
If I may quote from a NYtimes article from yestderday: (http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2015/08/05/world/europe/05reuters-germany...
quote:
"The focus in Germany on defending press freedom contrasts with developments in the United States, where former U.S. spy agency contractor Edward Snowden is wanted for leaking details of massive U.S. intelligence-gathering programs."
3
What you want to do is to mine the best of both worlds. America is a great place to make money when you are young. Europe is not. But America is no place to retire or spend your time once you have made your money. Cash out and move to Europe. The quality of life is vastly superior, if the opportunities are not.
3
I blame Reagan. Before him, paying taxes was patriotic, government worked and we had money enough to build roads and fly to the moon. After Reagan, government was the problem, the rich got all the money and government can't afford to maintain the property or pay the help. The GOP economic philosophy is a demonstrable failure. Let's stop pretending it deserves one more chance.
7
If I received the best possible European-style Scandinavian "services" then I would consider Scandinavian taxes and fees.
But I think anyone who's honest with themselves will admit that there is little or no chance of that happening with how corrupted and nepotism-driven our government is. Instead, we would end up paying Scandinavian fees for Venezuelan services.
Show me some term limits or some such first, Mr. Cohen, if you want me on your side. Then we can talk about becoming like Europe.
But I think anyone who's honest with themselves will admit that there is little or no chance of that happening with how corrupted and nepotism-driven our government is. Instead, we would end up paying Scandinavian fees for Venezuelan services.
Show me some term limits or some such first, Mr. Cohen, if you want me on your side. Then we can talk about becoming like Europe.
2
The American exceptionalism that Cohen deems intrinsic is very much the product of historical circumstances and opportunities, which are rapidly changing. The adjustment process is painful as legacies of past generations endure, but modifications of so-called American individualism, which has always co-existed with ideas of cooperative equality, is inevitable. The question is whether they will happen soon enough to avert major damage.
My freedom ends where yours begins. Freedom is not like love or justice where we have a zero sum outcome and we both share in it.
Freedom in the U.S. has come to mean the ability of one party to dominate another. How free are those whose legitimate vote is denied? Others have taken away that freedom. How free are those who must work every holiday? Because we are a country which never guarantees vacation time, letting corporations have the freedom to paid holidays or vacations to actual people. How free are citizens to take maternity leave? Because, again, employers as corporations have the freedom to deny paid maternity leave. How free are citizens to breathe clean air? Because corporations have the freedom to pollute!
This country is becoming exceptional for its SHAME!
Freedom in the U.S. has come to mean the ability of one party to dominate another. How free are those whose legitimate vote is denied? Others have taken away that freedom. How free are those who must work every holiday? Because we are a country which never guarantees vacation time, letting corporations have the freedom to paid holidays or vacations to actual people. How free are citizens to take maternity leave? Because, again, employers as corporations have the freedom to deny paid maternity leave. How free are citizens to breathe clean air? Because corporations have the freedom to pollute!
This country is becoming exceptional for its SHAME!
Interesting mention of innovation as America's answer to the excesses of individualism--but I wonder if innovation is in fact a form of individualism because of the way we focus on individual innovative figures like Steve Jobs or Thomas Edison and ignore all the people who make their innovations possible, such as the workers in factories or the engineers who work our the practical application of those innovations. Apple employs a lot of such people to realize the ideas of individuals like Jobs.
I just returned from France and I note exactly the same things as Mr. Cohen. Metro stations: clean platforms, clean tracks, quite trains. And the people are thinner, even though they spending more time dinning, talking, and enjoying life. They drive smaller cars and the roads do not have huge pot holes. The Europeans pay for their life style with higher taxes but this is what a social society does. Yes they make less money but this is no reflection on the quality of life.
2
Americans are fat because they eat too much sugar. This is a health problem that can be addressed in the same way the U.S. fought cigarettes. TV ads for fast food should be banned, and the sugar lobby needs to be ostracized.
2
It is very easy to see how the concept of American exceptionalism both fascinates and disgusts the rest of the world. Wars to spread "democracy" at gunpoint, unbridled consumption of scarce natural resources, trampling of worker's rights while the wealthy and corporations prosper, and a callous disregard for the needs of the less fortunate characterize American society today. American influence in the world is waning today from the sheer exhaustion of 14 years of fighting and paying (eventually) the human and fiscal costs of our avoidable and unwinnable wars.
1
What Europe enjoys in socialistic achievement it loses in division by having so many separate countries not really under a strong central government. Probably balances out in the long run. Otherwise I think that Paarlberg is spot on.
Americans give generously to charities, and yet when you speak to many of them they seem obsessed with the idea that their taxes might be paying for somebody "undeserving" to receive food, shelter, healthcare or any other basic human necessities. The definition of "undeserving" seems to include not only people who have failed in tough economic times but even their children.
American "rugged individualism" may be well and good, but surely one way of measuring a civilized society is by how willing its more fortunate citizens are to help those who, for a myriad of reasons,both good and bad, are unable to take care of themselves. The "common good" is just what it says, and we forget it at our peril.
American "rugged individualism" may be well and good, but surely one way of measuring a civilized society is by how willing its more fortunate citizens are to help those who, for a myriad of reasons,both good and bad, are unable to take care of themselves. The "common good" is just what it says, and we forget it at our peril.
4
Yet for all our creativity and energy, we Americans can't come to grips with poverty and racism, nor can we devise a simple solution to encourage everyone to vote. We produce huge feats of ingenuity (the New Horizons excursion to Pluto), yet our infrastructure is crumbling, our public schools are outrageously bad, and we eat beyond all rational limits, just because we can.
We've equated freedom with selfishness, and we are losing our sense of community and sacrifice for the common good. It's all about us and how great we are.
We've equated freedom with selfishness, and we are losing our sense of community and sacrifice for the common good. It's all about us and how great we are.
4
Thoughtful piece but a bit too rosy about Europe..
During a recent trip back to London, though good public services are still in place- excellent transport, well-maintained parks in most neighborhoods, friendly policemen!, - it was clear that a majority of the voters want to go down the US road. Some pillars of the welfare state- in education, public service, medical care, inclusive social policies, are blamed for the deficit, and "austerity" is seen as the solution, even though this is, at best, debatable.
Sad to see.
During a recent trip back to London, though good public services are still in place- excellent transport, well-maintained parks in most neighborhoods, friendly policemen!, - it was clear that a majority of the voters want to go down the US road. Some pillars of the welfare state- in education, public service, medical care, inclusive social policies, are blamed for the deficit, and "austerity" is seen as the solution, even though this is, at best, debatable.
Sad to see.
Cheer up Roger, things are better in the US and worse in Europe than you think.
Nearly two centuries ago, De Tocqueville noted our cult of individualism; it remains true today. As you note, it is the source of our vitality, creativity, and energy. It is also the underpinning of our endemic liberal thought, our open arms to immigrants (Mr. Trump notwithstanding), our malleable and evolving culture, and our economic engine.
Europe is a demographic disaster waiting to happen (as well as a political disaster in progress). Why? Because their social safety net combined with their fearful protectiveness of national cultures has placed a damper on immigration, and prevented immigrants from melding into the larger society. In Germany an immigrant from Ukraine who had a German great-grandfather can claim citizenship; a German born in Berlin to Turkish guest workers cannot. We have our undocumented immigrants, but we are united in recognizing the problem (though not the solution). And we continue to welcome young fertile immigrants from Latin America and Asia, and our demographic future looks healthy. Europe cannot say the same.
We are improving our obesity and energy efficiency, while obesity is becoming increasingly problematic abroad.
Asia and North America are the engines of world economic growth. while Europe lags economically and politically.
We certainly have problems, but looking to Europe doesn't provide answers.
Nearly two centuries ago, De Tocqueville noted our cult of individualism; it remains true today. As you note, it is the source of our vitality, creativity, and energy. It is also the underpinning of our endemic liberal thought, our open arms to immigrants (Mr. Trump notwithstanding), our malleable and evolving culture, and our economic engine.
Europe is a demographic disaster waiting to happen (as well as a political disaster in progress). Why? Because their social safety net combined with their fearful protectiveness of national cultures has placed a damper on immigration, and prevented immigrants from melding into the larger society. In Germany an immigrant from Ukraine who had a German great-grandfather can claim citizenship; a German born in Berlin to Turkish guest workers cannot. We have our undocumented immigrants, but we are united in recognizing the problem (though not the solution). And we continue to welcome young fertile immigrants from Latin America and Asia, and our demographic future looks healthy. Europe cannot say the same.
We are improving our obesity and energy efficiency, while obesity is becoming increasingly problematic abroad.
Asia and North America are the engines of world economic growth. while Europe lags economically and politically.
We certainly have problems, but looking to Europe doesn't provide answers.
5
While I agree with the contrast between European collectivism and American individualism and the effects on American society, let's not get too carried away with the idea that Europeans, especially the French, love the extensive role played by the state in their daily lives.
Mr. Cohen says, "The French ennoble the dutiful public servant." I lived in the Geneva area for over a decade and managed our company's French division just across the border. My French colleagues derided the government "fonctionnaires" - the phalanx of government functionaries that must be negotiated in supplication in order to get anything done. Yes, American excess is a huge problem, but French-style bureaucracy is certainly not the solution.
Another difference is that Americans revere collective action if it is based in religion but eschew it in the government/secular realm. Europeans are much more hesitant to embrace religious collective action and prefer government/secular action.
Mr. Cohen says, "The French ennoble the dutiful public servant." I lived in the Geneva area for over a decade and managed our company's French division just across the border. My French colleagues derided the government "fonctionnaires" - the phalanx of government functionaries that must be negotiated in supplication in order to get anything done. Yes, American excess is a huge problem, but French-style bureaucracy is certainly not the solution.
Another difference is that Americans revere collective action if it is based in religion but eschew it in the government/secular realm. Europeans are much more hesitant to embrace religious collective action and prefer government/secular action.
2
I have been watching American reactions to the science of global climate change for 50 years and I'm pessimistic like you that we can change in time to correct this horrendous problem which is upon us.
Your analysis is correct in the sense of individualism and freedom. For example a recent proposal on how to solve the climate change problem makes this statement: "Costly and economically inefficient command-and-control greenhouse gas regulations are firmly entrenched in law, and there is no plausible scenario in which they can be removed by conservative political force."
In other words, they believe central government cannot solve the problem with its EPA regulations, it must be something American, really American and wrapped up in freedom. And guess what that is: the good ole American "free market system;" a tax on carbon, a fee, if you like that american word better. In other words, use a non-government, non-centralized system, a system associated with the wild west, the wild America, the great "free" market system, untouched by the dirty big government system. It gets worse: with the plan just mentioned, a chunk of it goes to lower corporate taxes, those wonderful entities and symbols of freedom.
Niskanen Center (The Conservative Case for a Carbon Tax).
So again, the fanatical desire and fear of "big government" when it comes to getting anything seriously done and controlled.
We look to the gov for chunks of money like highway fund and you can name all the others.
Your analysis is correct in the sense of individualism and freedom. For example a recent proposal on how to solve the climate change problem makes this statement: "Costly and economically inefficient command-and-control greenhouse gas regulations are firmly entrenched in law, and there is no plausible scenario in which they can be removed by conservative political force."
In other words, they believe central government cannot solve the problem with its EPA regulations, it must be something American, really American and wrapped up in freedom. And guess what that is: the good ole American "free market system;" a tax on carbon, a fee, if you like that american word better. In other words, use a non-government, non-centralized system, a system associated with the wild west, the wild America, the great "free" market system, untouched by the dirty big government system. It gets worse: with the plan just mentioned, a chunk of it goes to lower corporate taxes, those wonderful entities and symbols of freedom.
Niskanen Center (The Conservative Case for a Carbon Tax).
So again, the fanatical desire and fear of "big government" when it comes to getting anything seriously done and controlled.
We look to the gov for chunks of money like highway fund and you can name all the others.
As our nation moves into the maturity of its third hundred years its focus and adulation of individualism is allowing the decay of our infrastructure and the abandonment of the idea that we are each a part of the larger culture.
DeToqueville understood the strength of American participation in social groups even as he wondered at them, but working now as individual atoms we have lost any power to alter the distorting affect of money on politics. The decisions of the SCOTUS on voting rights, on money as speech, on corporations as people show clearly how the philosophy of every man on his own is destroying a once great nation.
When workers ask what's in this for me, the answer they get is a referral to the worker next to them "taking" their freedom and rights because that guy joined with others in a union to fight for better wages and working conditions. Meanwhile the corporate entities are working madly behind the scenes to replace all these workers with more efficient machines and to retain as much of the money made from both as possible. So, if you think you get more freedom by working as an individual we have a bridge to sell you here in NY and you might be able to charge a toll. Oh, but you don't have the money for that do you? Maybe you can charge for your vote rather than your labor? That seems the only thing left to sell for the American worker that American business actually wants and so far workers have been giving it free to the propaganda men.
DeToqueville understood the strength of American participation in social groups even as he wondered at them, but working now as individual atoms we have lost any power to alter the distorting affect of money on politics. The decisions of the SCOTUS on voting rights, on money as speech, on corporations as people show clearly how the philosophy of every man on his own is destroying a once great nation.
When workers ask what's in this for me, the answer they get is a referral to the worker next to them "taking" their freedom and rights because that guy joined with others in a union to fight for better wages and working conditions. Meanwhile the corporate entities are working madly behind the scenes to replace all these workers with more efficient machines and to retain as much of the money made from both as possible. So, if you think you get more freedom by working as an individual we have a bridge to sell you here in NY and you might be able to charge a toll. Oh, but you don't have the money for that do you? Maybe you can charge for your vote rather than your labor? That seems the only thing left to sell for the American worker that American business actually wants and so far workers have been giving it free to the propaganda men.
1
Much of this piece rings true, but ultimately Cohen still resorts to the yes or no, us or them, freedom or security polarization that is so typically American. As a culture, our mindset is incapable of understanding shades of gray, of complexity or nuance. And Europe has many issues not addressed by Cohen, many of which are rooted in its own bigotry and resentments gathered through its tumultuous history. My own belief is that the only hope for either Europe or the US is for both to reform their fundamental beliefs about themselves and find a middle ground, but good luck with that. So, we need to hope that China makes room for us in the new world order. .
2
There is a difference between freedom in a representative democracy and outright selfishness. We're pretty much practicing the latter in America these days. It's all me, me, me, mine, mine, mine. This should be the first item in the Republican Party Platform. Like a small child unwilling to share its toys.
America would be a much better place for everyone if the following concept were put in practice: each person can exercise freedom so long as it does not interfere with another's right to an equal amount of freedom. I suppose this is a rewording of the golden rule. Not a bad concept.
America would be a much better place for everyone if the following concept were put in practice: each person can exercise freedom so long as it does not interfere with another's right to an equal amount of freedom. I suppose this is a rewording of the golden rule. Not a bad concept.
1
"The history of lion hunters will not be told until lions have their own biographers" (African, Anonymous)
There is nothing like success to bias, befuddle and belittle sound judgment. And so an American uses a bow and arrow to kill an iconic lion. Bow hunting is especially cruel as it seldom kills immediately and the lion, Cecil, was killed much later by trackers. The dentist was an American who had earned so much money he could afford to travel in luxury to Zimbabwe, buy permits, contract Africans on whom he was totally dependent for food, campsite tracking and illegally luring Cecil to a spot so the great white American hunter could indulge in a few seconds of aim and release, leaving the mortally injured lion to be tracked, dispatched butchered and crated some 40 hours later. --What a wonderful metaphor for the US as it perpetuates its false narrative of self reliance and virtue and freedom to act and do whatever can be afforded and damn the consequences.
So much that is good. So much that is wrong, flabby thinking. The US is in dire need of societal liposuction...
There is nothing like success to bias, befuddle and belittle sound judgment. And so an American uses a bow and arrow to kill an iconic lion. Bow hunting is especially cruel as it seldom kills immediately and the lion, Cecil, was killed much later by trackers. The dentist was an American who had earned so much money he could afford to travel in luxury to Zimbabwe, buy permits, contract Africans on whom he was totally dependent for food, campsite tracking and illegally luring Cecil to a spot so the great white American hunter could indulge in a few seconds of aim and release, leaving the mortally injured lion to be tracked, dispatched butchered and crated some 40 hours later. --What a wonderful metaphor for the US as it perpetuates its false narrative of self reliance and virtue and freedom to act and do whatever can be afforded and damn the consequences.
So much that is good. So much that is wrong, flabby thinking. The US is in dire need of societal liposuction...
2
The dominant culture of individualism has serious consequences in the political life here. States' rights or posse comitatus is the operating system. This system has proved to be ineffective in solving macro problems, such as education, health care, energy, pollution of air and water etc. We are pre-wired to live as we please, not to choose prevention of diseases with life style choices, and to rely on expensive & technological solutions to problems that should have been prevented in the first place. Our over commitment to individualism is obsolete.
1
I suppose it goes back to days of de Tocqueville, Europeans opining on the essence of America, and gullible Americans believing them. Let's be honest, Roger isn't really talking about the essence of America, he's talking about the essence of New York. I doubt that Roger has been to dozen US cities outside of New York, probably hasn't ever been to the South or Pacific Northwestern parts of the US, it's rural cities and suburbs. Where not talking about a guy who hops into a truck with a dog, a John Steinbeck, for example, and travels about looking for what makes American great...or not so great. Instead, we're listening to a guy, who lives in London, travels to Berlin or Paris, or Rome once in awhile, and now lives in New York. That's it.
1
United we stand does not make a nation, it only makes a common goal.
Europeans had a long time to fight and find an equilibrium that extends into it's social systems, infrastructure and education.
In short a nation that only has yet to name itself as such.
(Even though this equilibrium is under threat these days by a wave of migrants that do not share most of these values and ideas, let alone the common goals Europeans have)
On the other hand, the US was started by people that resented these European values and instead wanted their individuality to become a life style.
These people had one thing in common and that was aggressive egoism.
While the Europeans created a "good feel" and safe environment, the Americans created a permanent fight for supremacy.
Once they had it in their country, around 1898, they extended this fight to the rest of the world while at the same time lettings things fall apart at home.
Maybe it is time to accept that it is possible to grow apart within 5-6 generations and stop pretending that all the world shares a common goal.
Let the US have it's crumbling infrastructure, it's non existing health care system and a failed education system, if that is what they want, they can have it all.
But please, please, let the Europeans and the Asians, have their way too.
In a few generations we will see what will be the most sustainable way.
Quick and cheap suicide or slow and expensive pampering.
Only have the US use only it's own resources.
Europeans had a long time to fight and find an equilibrium that extends into it's social systems, infrastructure and education.
In short a nation that only has yet to name itself as such.
(Even though this equilibrium is under threat these days by a wave of migrants that do not share most of these values and ideas, let alone the common goals Europeans have)
On the other hand, the US was started by people that resented these European values and instead wanted their individuality to become a life style.
These people had one thing in common and that was aggressive egoism.
While the Europeans created a "good feel" and safe environment, the Americans created a permanent fight for supremacy.
Once they had it in their country, around 1898, they extended this fight to the rest of the world while at the same time lettings things fall apart at home.
Maybe it is time to accept that it is possible to grow apart within 5-6 generations and stop pretending that all the world shares a common goal.
Let the US have it's crumbling infrastructure, it's non existing health care system and a failed education system, if that is what they want, they can have it all.
But please, please, let the Europeans and the Asians, have their way too.
In a few generations we will see what will be the most sustainable way.
Quick and cheap suicide or slow and expensive pampering.
Only have the US use only it's own resources.
2
Americans have the best real estate on the planet, which provides an advantage equivalent to having Labron James on your company's pick-up basketball team.
America's great environment disaster is the half-century building boom of auto-centric suburbs.
Unlike the period following WWII, few American today have had a common experience that would enable looking past petty difference and focusing on the common good. No greater example than allowing infrastructure to crumble, but by all means support the troops with extravagent weapons systems.
Our cherished individualism has produced a generation of college debt laden millenials, suicidal CO2 levels, and a series of wars-of-choice failures. Oh, and the Republican Party. Yikes!
America's great environment disaster is the half-century building boom of auto-centric suburbs.
Unlike the period following WWII, few American today have had a common experience that would enable looking past petty difference and focusing on the common good. No greater example than allowing infrastructure to crumble, but by all means support the troops with extravagent weapons systems.
Our cherished individualism has produced a generation of college debt laden millenials, suicidal CO2 levels, and a series of wars-of-choice failures. Oh, and the Republican Party. Yikes!
2
I appreciate the effort that went into this column, but the choice between American-style "freedom" and eradicating neediness is a false one. While the US cannot and should not become a mirror of Europe and vice versa, the framing here plays right into the hands of those who falsely claim that we cannot have "freedom" and take care of the needy simultaneously. The last time I checked, Europe was a pretty free place. But then again, the last time I was there was a mere few weeks ago.
Moreover, the US isn't in this day and age all that vast. I can get on a plane this afternoon and wind up in Europe or the west coast with a mere few hours difference in flight time.
Moreover, the US isn't in this day and age all that vast. I can get on a plane this afternoon and wind up in Europe or the west coast with a mere few hours difference in flight time.
1
"Americans, who dwell in a vast country, sparsely populated by European standards, are hardwired to the notion of individual self-reliance."
the conservative dogma relies on a frontier mentality when in actuality the frontier disappeared completely during the early 20th century. now we have a majority of people living in cities and their options for reinvention are limited. self-reliance, for them, is almost useless when it comes to supplying food, housing and clothing. if you want to see self reliance in a city? go to a homeless encampment; this si what it looks like when disadvantaged people have to provide the essentials for themselves in an urban area. we could do better.
the conservative dogma relies on a frontier mentality when in actuality the frontier disappeared completely during the early 20th century. now we have a majority of people living in cities and their options for reinvention are limited. self-reliance, for them, is almost useless when it comes to supplying food, housing and clothing. if you want to see self reliance in a city? go to a homeless encampment; this si what it looks like when disadvantaged people have to provide the essentials for themselves in an urban area. we could do better.
1
Perhaps Mr. Cohen has an ex-pat perspective. Europe has many of the same problems - especially with immigration. War is displacing millions - and they are fleeing to Europe. Unemployment is high even among the educated. Americans are finally addressing social and environmental issues - often at the state level. We all have our problems but Americans are activists and while we swing between extremes generally end up along a middling course. And as one comment so correctly stated - we can choose our neighbors.
Most negative psychological diseases also represent extreme forms of individualism. A healthy society can buffer this because it allows for the individual to escape his individualism. Most happy people I know live in the context of a larger happy society, or in the case for America, happy smaller habitats, co-ops. That's because the American society is an impressionistic painting - there is no distinct borders but there is form only if you stand far away from it. You probably have that "impression" having been overseas for so long and are now back into the states. It is this indistinction of borders in a complex society that also allows for individualism to rise. I also believe that obesity is also a disease of an unhappy, worried mind. Fat, like a happy society, also buffers the mind, while food is its Xanax. But in the end, we come out ok - there is strength and resiliency. From that experience, America matures at a much faster pace than the rest of the world. We need to - we are still so young.
1
American distrust of government is a fantasy. People of all stripes love the socialism they receive, be it money transfers, publicly financed sports arenas, corporate subsidies, tax-exempt status for skimpy reasons, crop supports, grazing rights, military/industrial corruption, etc. The real fight is over controlling those handouts and creating necessary political allies to further enrich one's particular group. This is why government expenditures, for example, rise during so-called conservative/small gov't administrations. America is dishonest about itself in this particular fashion.
2
Americans generally don't have any 'choice' about using cars. The design of our cities works against most of us using our legs to do our daily errands - and leads to our sedentary lifestyles and obesity. Look at how our towns and cities are built! Many towns don't have sidewalks, just roads. Many communities are purposely built away from commercial areas, and no sidewalks link their gated streets (often also without sidewalks) to anything outside of those gates. Thanks to our far-flung patterns of building, public transportation is too expensive and too sporadic to use. What is one of the biggest fears of most older Americans? Losing their drivers' license. And that's not only because driving a car has long been a symbol of independence: it's because once that license is gone, an older person is trapped in their home, isolated and helpless. And given our national attitude of self-reliance and suspicion of government 'helpers,' a lot of old folks will never speak up to ask for services. Yes, it would be great if we could all live in snug, high-density towns with stores and doctors within walking distance or close to a reliable bus or train. But take a gander at any satellite photo of the US - you can easily 'see' our predicament.
3
Poverty and obesity are directly related. Conservatives love to whoop it up over the fact that the poor in America have it so good that they are obese.
But it is precisely because they are poor that they are subject to obesity. Poor people eat cheaper food and to make food cheaper you use cheaper ingredients like salt, fat and corn syrup. Hence, the obesity.
But it is precisely because they are poor that they are subject to obesity. Poor people eat cheaper food and to make food cheaper you use cheaper ingredients like salt, fat and corn syrup. Hence, the obesity.
1
We conservatives not "whooping it up" about the false linkage bet obesity & poverty. Idea that we force anyone into eating bad food is ludicrous - as you know. There are some hefty hips around the White House and the Dem candidates - no poiverty there.
1
If you want the highs, you have to take the lows. As long as the lows don't overwhelm the highs...
1
Yes, many Americans say they want "the freedom to pursue life's goals without government interference." But there is a big contradiction between what many of these Americans say, and what they do. The same ones that preach "individual self-reliance" and the "state as a predator on those rights," are pushing government controls on Americans' private lives, and on the fundamental right of voting.
They want the government to dictate women's health, through restrictions on abortion, birth control, and basic health services. They want the government to restrict gay marriage and other rights. They want the government to deny some of our citizens the right to vote.
They clearly are not against government interference, when it would restrict the population that they want to restrict.
The goal for these Americans thus is not freedom and individual rights, but that their individual wants would control others' freedom.
They want the government to dictate women's health, through restrictions on abortion, birth control, and basic health services. They want the government to restrict gay marriage and other rights. They want the government to deny some of our citizens the right to vote.
They clearly are not against government interference, when it would restrict the population that they want to restrict.
The goal for these Americans thus is not freedom and individual rights, but that their individual wants would control others' freedom.
3
The problem is that in USA money is the only criteria. It so permeated the whole fabric of life that now it became a gauge of everything. It gets promoted - purposefully or not - by all sources. Beauty, conscience, a feeling of necessary soul satisfaction - all don't count for much in American psyche and are missing in the instinctive sense about how we should live.
3
Americans want freedom without responsibility.
6
J.K. Galbraith's celebrated THE AFFLUENT SOCIETY of which I can't recall actually reading, comes to mind, while I've always dwelled with irony in its sibling/pun "effluent" anyhow.
Brief experiences of Britain, France and Italy do not make me overly
envious.
London like your NYC tres cher.
Paris not romantic, though adequate Quickie-Burger/McDonald, as is London greasy chips 'n fish, so okay.
Naples, Italy, annoying firecrackers plus pick-pockets plus garbage strike.
Good McDonald's.
I'd still rather munch terrific salad at domestic Olive Gardens plus clean la sale du bains with violin atmospheric muzak.
Take Europe, s'il vous plait.
(s) tourist in tennis shoes
p.s. My most valuable raison to visit Europe has been to better appreciate the USA.
Brief experiences of Britain, France and Italy do not make me overly
envious.
London like your NYC tres cher.
Paris not romantic, though adequate Quickie-Burger/McDonald, as is London greasy chips 'n fish, so okay.
Naples, Italy, annoying firecrackers plus pick-pockets plus garbage strike.
Good McDonald's.
I'd still rather munch terrific salad at domestic Olive Gardens plus clean la sale du bains with violin atmospheric muzak.
Take Europe, s'il vous plait.
(s) tourist in tennis shoes
p.s. My most valuable raison to visit Europe has been to better appreciate the USA.
1
Those are food,
we cannot drive our cars in city limits because of aerial bombing damages of the roads in USA.
we cannot drive our cars in city limits because of aerial bombing damages of the roads in USA.
Are Europeans barraged with capitalistic propaganda the way Americans are? I know that advertising for pharmaceuticals isn't allowed there, and I think a lot of our excesses are encouraged and enabled by manufacturers of sugary foods, big fast cars, ever-new tech toys, and other "must haves" that are promoted 24/7. The American drive to make money on everything, from medical care to clean water to a decent education, is undermining our country. Our "freedom" is often attributed to capitalism, but citizens who are sick or who can't read or who can't find jobs are far from free.
20
The difference in the two cultures can be explained by a few things, 1) For centuries, Europeans were governed exclusively by a top-down approach, Church and State made all or most of the rules, while America was founded on the idea of getting away from those rules.
Europe's poverty was far worse for far longer and there was little someone could do to change their lot, whereas America, the land of free enterprise and equality allowed it's people more freedom to experiment and thrive.
Finally, America (with the acceptation of the War of 1812, Pearl Harbor and 9/11 has never been attacked by a foreign entity, nor have our cities been laid waste by war. During the last two World Wars, Europe (including Russia) lost 10's of millions people, and an equal amount in property damage, so it's more likely that they would see the need to pull together to rebuild their shattered communities.
While America could benefit from some European common sense and compassion, there is a liveliness and innovative quality to America that takes one's breath away. If the South broke off from the rest of America and floated out to sea, this would be a pretty great country.
Europe's poverty was far worse for far longer and there was little someone could do to change their lot, whereas America, the land of free enterprise and equality allowed it's people more freedom to experiment and thrive.
Finally, America (with the acceptation of the War of 1812, Pearl Harbor and 9/11 has never been attacked by a foreign entity, nor have our cities been laid waste by war. During the last two World Wars, Europe (including Russia) lost 10's of millions people, and an equal amount in property damage, so it's more likely that they would see the need to pull together to rebuild their shattered communities.
While America could benefit from some European common sense and compassion, there is a liveliness and innovative quality to America that takes one's breath away. If the South broke off from the rest of America and floated out to sea, this would be a pretty great country.
11
That's a nice tolerance of other people. There are wonderful, generous, kind people in the South, many of them African American and Hispanic.
1
You're correct - but on the whole, the Republican members of Congress and Governors from the South tend to be the worst of the worst, in terms of being unfair and even abusive towards those very nice blacks, Hispanics and white people.
1
Having lived on both sides of the Atlantic for many years, back and forth for the mid 70's onward, I wholeheartedly agree with Mr. Cohen's assessment.
"America is more alive" than Europe, Mr. Cohen writes. Yes and no. America is still the leader in "innovtion", although one wonders increasingly what this innovation is really good for. But if you look in other places in America, the central cities, the poor rural areas, you see a lot of dispirited people, who seem to have given up all hope, with "dead eye stares".
And yes, America in many ways seems more "vibrant", but it is also much, much more "violent". America's much vaunted "individualism" probably also goes hand in hand with its very violent tendencies.
"America is more alive" than Europe, Mr. Cohen writes. Yes and no. America is still the leader in "innovtion", although one wonders increasingly what this innovation is really good for. But if you look in other places in America, the central cities, the poor rural areas, you see a lot of dispirited people, who seem to have given up all hope, with "dead eye stares".
And yes, America in many ways seems more "vibrant", but it is also much, much more "violent". America's much vaunted "individualism" probably also goes hand in hand with its very violent tendencies.
35
A forever optimist, perhaps, I believe we can balance these 2 views. But it requires give-and-take among citizens and politicians. Fifty-eight percent choosing freedoms over state guarantees is not an overwhelming majority. A sizable minority feel otherwise. And I bet that many of the 58% would tolerate help for their fellow citizens, or better schools and infrastructure.
Our challenge is to elect leaders who understand this middle ground, even though their political "base" might be in one camp or another. Our political system has broken to the point where this is nearly impossible. That, ultimately, will be our undoing if not fixed.
Our challenge is to elect leaders who understand this middle ground, even though their political "base" might be in one camp or another. Our political system has broken to the point where this is nearly impossible. That, ultimately, will be our undoing if not fixed.
3
It’s true that infrastructure in Western Europe is generally much better than in the U.S., and Americans don’t even realize what they are missing.
But all of you American Europhiles, who wax lyrical about the “higher civilization” in Europe should try to live there, if you have the opportunity, as I did in France for 14 years until leaving recently. You will miss the dynamism, can-do spirit and, more basically, the service, you find in the U.S.
The fact is, while strong job protections, generous rules for working hours and vacation and a high safety net sound good on paper, they translate into a sense of entitlement among workers and often atrocious service. Requests for services that Americans take for granted are often met with, c’est impossible monsieur. Asking why frequently elicits a shrug and c’est comme ça monsieur.
And your ennobled bureaucrats, who enjoy a job for life, are usually worse.
So while it’s agreed that self-reliance, lack of worker protections and an overemphasis on individualism goes too far in America, be careful what you ask for with the European model.
But all of you American Europhiles, who wax lyrical about the “higher civilization” in Europe should try to live there, if you have the opportunity, as I did in France for 14 years until leaving recently. You will miss the dynamism, can-do spirit and, more basically, the service, you find in the U.S.
The fact is, while strong job protections, generous rules for working hours and vacation and a high safety net sound good on paper, they translate into a sense of entitlement among workers and often atrocious service. Requests for services that Americans take for granted are often met with, c’est impossible monsieur. Asking why frequently elicits a shrug and c’est comme ça monsieur.
And your ennobled bureaucrats, who enjoy a job for life, are usually worse.
So while it’s agreed that self-reliance, lack of worker protections and an overemphasis on individualism goes too far in America, be careful what you ask for with the European model.
4
I agree with you about the service in France, but I think the attitude, like the guarantees, come from the culture, rather than the attitude coming from the guarantees. The French tend to assume that people know their own jobs better than the clients do. Have you noticed how things are getting worse in America because of deregulation? Spend any tie with a telemarketer? On a commercial website? Ever have a conflict with an airline, or an insurance company? You might long for the red tape & the waits in France . . .
1
Danbal
"It’s true that infrastructure in Western Europe is generally much better than in the U.S., and Americans don’t even realize what they are missing."
That is quite an understatement for infrastructure and public transport for Europe level.
In USA we do not have roads, In fact In USA we do not have autobahn , simple and certain.
Road quality in metropolitan areas is close to sub-Saharan Africa, In New York city, I can clearly say that last 12 years I didn't drive my car on Asphalt paved road, it looks more London roads after blitzkrieg in 1942.
Public transportation, trains and busses are virtually not following and earthly technology. Particularly bus manufacturers in USA doesn't have any idea How a bus should be, You are sitting on a seat harder than concrete ( literally ) last couple years we started to see Setra busses in NYC, And here they are calling bus, trucks converted to something can carry human being.
Electric grid is absolutely one century behind of Europe.
We have an IPhone, when electric cut by falling tree branch we have app for to use IPhone as a flashlight.
Something like that, decadence of infrastructure is unforgiving in USA.
"It’s true that infrastructure in Western Europe is generally much better than in the U.S., and Americans don’t even realize what they are missing."
That is quite an understatement for infrastructure and public transport for Europe level.
In USA we do not have roads, In fact In USA we do not have autobahn , simple and certain.
Road quality in metropolitan areas is close to sub-Saharan Africa, In New York city, I can clearly say that last 12 years I didn't drive my car on Asphalt paved road, it looks more London roads after blitzkrieg in 1942.
Public transportation, trains and busses are virtually not following and earthly technology. Particularly bus manufacturers in USA doesn't have any idea How a bus should be, You are sitting on a seat harder than concrete ( literally ) last couple years we started to see Setra busses in NYC, And here they are calling bus, trucks converted to something can carry human being.
Electric grid is absolutely one century behind of Europe.
We have an IPhone, when electric cut by falling tree branch we have app for to use IPhone as a flashlight.
Something like that, decadence of infrastructure is unforgiving in USA.
1
Mr. Cohen, kudos for this very powerful column. It is exactly what all americans need to absorb. Freedom is fine and it should be wonderful at all times but freedom does not mean breaking every law of the land. America is still has a "wild west" mentality. The civil war still exists in many states. Americans are not united in the common good. They see regulation and common sense laws as a negative way of life. This column hits the nail on the so called head. America is in chaos right now. Americans act like spoiled children. It's time to grow up for the common good for all citizens of our great country.
2
The frontier mentality is still the driving force in the US and the reason for most aspects of our national behavior. The streets of Laredo are still evoked by the obsolete Second Amendment - look at the proposals of certain Texas politicians among others. State authority is viewed as corrupt and disruptive of the noble lifestyle and struggles of the yeoman farmer and his family. Meanwhile, the effete Europeans overregulate and and drive themselves to impending bankruptcy with their unsustainable social welfare programs, and wallow in a decadent intellectual tradition instead of a bracing "dude"culture.
I spam six weeks in southern Italy recently, a beautiful and poor part of the country, where people live simply and do their best. One evening I had dinner with a Swedish couple who owned a vacation home in a hilltop village overlooking a beautiful valley and the Ionian Sea. I tried explaining our political scene, gave up after half an hour and asked them about life in their own country. "We're spoiled" they told me. "We grew up in the best country in the world. We decided long ago that we would have a society where it wasn't everyone against everyone else. We decided that schoolchildren would have a good breakfast every morning, that everyone would have good medical care, that anyone who could do the work and wanted to, would have a college education. This allowed us to become professionals with fulfilling work and a good life." They were semi retired, in their sixties, absurdly fit by American standards. I walked home that evening thinking about a lot of things. I fantasized, if Americans were given some sort of grant to live for six months in Europe, how many might choose not to return?
48
How many Europeans, given a grant to live for six months in the US, might choose not to return?
You cannot base your opinion of how 400 million Europeans live, on ONE elderly couple giving you a lot of puffery about Sweden. (Did they mention the income tax rate of 65%? or the VAT of 28%?)
BTW: not all of Europe is like Sweden. That would be like assuming all of the USA is just like Berkeley or Park Slope.
You cannot base your opinion of how 400 million Europeans live, on ONE elderly couple giving you a lot of puffery about Sweden. (Did they mention the income tax rate of 65%? or the VAT of 28%?)
BTW: not all of Europe is like Sweden. That would be like assuming all of the USA is just like Berkeley or Park Slope.
"The paucity of public spaces'? Where is the Adirondack State Park of Europe, I'd like to know? You should get out of the big city more, Roger.
I think he means public spaces in the cities, in the residential areas. I live in Madrid part of the year. There seem to be parks, playgrounds, open church yards on every block.
2
In this context, public space means a plaza, piazza, or city square. I also think of the little squares in Copenhagen where beer and jazz go very well. The Adirondacks is not an accessible place for a mid-day break. Hyde Park London or Phoenix Park Dublin qualify. So does Central Park NYC, but only for those working near it.
1
The Adirondack National Park represents about 0.35% of the area of the US. The Peak District National Park - in the UK - represents about 0.94% of the area of the UK. So, to get to the equivalent of the Adirondack Park you'd need to work down the list to one of the smaller UK parks. And the UK is one of the more densely populated countries in Europe, so I expect there are many countries with proportionately larger parks.
1
THE VOID WITHIN is what drives compulsive overeating, leading to overweight and obesity. Emotional emptiness can be a symptom of depression, as can social isolation. Woven into our culture in the US is isolation masquerading as individualism. As with a tree in the forest, if an isolated person speaks of democracy and nobody else is present to receive the message, that effectively ends democracy in that time and place. The notion of the State as the enemy is based in the paranoid idea that we are being persecuted. By whom? By what? If anything, in the US we're being hounded 24/7 with the constant bombardment of electronic media inducing us to buy more of everything. A good consumer is one who constantly buys more, which is a result of a culture that puts a higher value on consumption than on human interaction. The state and we are one! Without individuals there is no state. The Europeans got it right and we got it wrong. It's not too late for us to move toward a More Perfect Union. But we must choose the right path.
1
Incurable American Excess, Mr. Cohen and Mr. Paarlberg are correct, and there are many aspects of American culture that don't help. Our need, driven by media, for instant gratification Is a large factor.
My biggest concern was when we will wake up, now I fear for our children's future, that we can't wake up.
Just like climate change there is a tipping point, when to many people are left behind we start to get frustrated, this is reflected in the recent statements by some of the Republican candidates poll numbers.
Where this may all lead is anyone's guess, but it's not how America was suppose turn out, unfettered greed fed buy corporate bribery is legal, where do we go from here.
Education for those who can afford it does more harm than good, overt inequality seems to be the goal so strap in for a old new world.
My biggest concern was when we will wake up, now I fear for our children's future, that we can't wake up.
Just like climate change there is a tipping point, when to many people are left behind we start to get frustrated, this is reflected in the recent statements by some of the Republican candidates poll numbers.
Where this may all lead is anyone's guess, but it's not how America was suppose turn out, unfettered greed fed buy corporate bribery is legal, where do we go from here.
Education for those who can afford it does more harm than good, overt inequality seems to be the goal so strap in for a old new world.
2
It looks as if Cohen's spell in Europe has allowed some of the immigrant scales to fall from his eyes. Freedom without fraternity - the US kind - is equivalent to every man for himself - the freedom of the sinking ship. Which is exactly what you have now in the US. You cannot build à sustainable cohesive society based on this kind of freedom (from). As Cohen is describing, freedom without fraternity leads to self destruction - on every level. And, BTW, it's not just the numbers when it comes to American obesity - it's the qualitative difference that is most striking.
14
I think the world would be a better place if the American speed limit would be introduced on German roads....and perhaps European gun control in God's own country.
9
If only more Americans were able to travel abroad, especially to Europe, and see the differences. I've been an occasional European visitor for the past 30 years, and this year I visited Paris, Geneva, Amsterdam, Madrid, and Innsbruck. Among the other differences mentioned by Mr. Cohen (crumbling infrastructure and so on), I was most struck by how different our cities are. I work in Seattle and, anywhere in downtown, I have to step over the homeless, their dogs, and their feces (human and canine), their smells, and even their drug paraphernalia, sprawled across sidewalks. The same is true in San Francisco and many other American cities. In my European travels, cities are so much more pleasant; one can enjoy their beauty without the constant marination. What have they learned that we haven't? Why in Seattle -- a liberal bastion with lots of aid for the homeless -- can't we match the Europeans? What are they doing to that we aren't? Do they simply export their homeless people (to where?) or is the problem much less? Does anyone know?
17
Why do Americans have homeless people? They did not exist when I was a child (50s-60s)?
What happened was lefty liberals and the ACLU SUED and forced cities to release mental patients and drug addicts on the street -- gave them their "freedom". Now they live on our streets in filth.
I am sure in "Europe", such people are kept in nice mental hospitals far, far away from the tourists.
What happened was lefty liberals and the ACLU SUED and forced cities to release mental patients and drug addicts on the street -- gave them their "freedom". Now they live on our streets in filth.
I am sure in "Europe", such people are kept in nice mental hospitals far, far away from the tourists.
"In the United States, 58 percent chose freedom and only 35 percent a state pledge to eradicate neediness."
I'd be interested to hear the statistics specific to more urbane parts of the country- New York City, San Francisco, Washington DC, Los Angeles, etc. I suspect that the figures would be reversed, and more in line with European sentiments.
I'd be interested to hear the statistics specific to more urbane parts of the country- New York City, San Francisco, Washington DC, Los Angeles, etc. I suspect that the figures would be reversed, and more in line with European sentiments.
4
It's really hard to see that America's virtues - vitality, creativity and energy, are the flip side of the vices of disregard for government, individualism, obesity, brashness etc.
It's not as though countries with a better social safety net and a sense of collective responsibility are less creative or innovative. The claim that individualism solves all problems doesn't make it so.
The superficial vibrancy, the loudness, often borne of desperation, doesn't make the country "more alive".
A few years ago David Brooks implied that the US lack of a national healthcare system was what made the country more vibrant and creative.
These are simply unsubstantiated sweeping claims. It's like listening to Donald Rumsfeld talking about "Old Europe" rather than his more sensible remark.
These are "unknown unknowns".
It's not as though countries with a better social safety net and a sense of collective responsibility are less creative or innovative. The claim that individualism solves all problems doesn't make it so.
The superficial vibrancy, the loudness, often borne of desperation, doesn't make the country "more alive".
A few years ago David Brooks implied that the US lack of a national healthcare system was what made the country more vibrant and creative.
These are simply unsubstantiated sweeping claims. It's like listening to Donald Rumsfeld talking about "Old Europe" rather than his more sensible remark.
These are "unknown unknowns".
7
Be very careful here. The rewards are survival of not only society but humans under an extinction threat. It is not clear yet which type of society will produce a better solution. One that is vital, flexible and challenging, or one that is essentially rule based with the danger that the rules are wrong for survival. Some experts put the beginning of extinction age close in at 300 years.
1
I came back from a work stint in Venice just a month ago and I'm still trying to readjust to the boredom of suburban sprawl, the ugly uniformity of individual houses, the fat people barely making it from their cars to the front door, the bland food and tasteless fashion. I agree with Mr. Cohen's description of the problem but not with his diagnosis of the root cause of it. It is not excess of individualism but lack of it that creates a lot of American problems. Americans are stunningly conformist in their opinions, tastes and behavior. You are only "free" to be like everybody else. You have a choice between MacDonald's and Burger King but not the choice to dislike burgers. You can worship in a church of your choice but being an atheist is still a social stigma. The reason for much of it is contempt toward the "elites" and distrust of education and knowledge. This is not the case in either Europe or Asia. China has some problems but coming back from Shanghai or Hong Kong to American cities is like coming back to a Third World country. And it is simply not true that cutting-edge innovations are not being created outside of the U.S. - I know that technological and biotechnological start-ups are flourishing in China, Scandinavia, parts of Italy, and Israel. I'm not even mentioning the fact that half of the start-up founders in the Silicon Valley were born outside the U.S.
30
...to say nothing of the tweedle dee and tweedle dumb nature of the so-called political parties in the United States. Yes, we are free to choose candidates that unabashedly support the oligarchs vs those who believe that that need to be somewhat regulated.
With the possible exception of Bernie Sanders, American politics does not allow for a point a view that would seek to take down the giant corporate interests that are the true source of the power in this country. Quashing even the consideration of political choice, inhibits any true freedom.
With the possible exception of Bernie Sanders, American politics does not allow for a point a view that would seek to take down the giant corporate interests that are the true source of the power in this country. Quashing even the consideration of political choice, inhibits any true freedom.
1
How precisely are you forced to like hamburgers?
Also I know a lot of atheists and agnostics in the US.
Also I know a lot of atheists and agnostics in the US.
In Buddhism, the Hungry Ghost realm is populated by beings who's cravings can never be satisfied. They have a body the size of mountain and a mouth the size of a pinhole, according to one vivid description given to me by a monk. No matter how much the consume they can never be satisfied.
American society in many ways appears to have this psychological trait. Makes me ponder what is lacking that makes us fill our lives with ultimately unsatisfying materialism. A sense of community? A sense of a purpose larger than our own immediate gratification?
American society in many ways appears to have this psychological trait. Makes me ponder what is lacking that makes us fill our lives with ultimately unsatisfying materialism. A sense of community? A sense of a purpose larger than our own immediate gratification?
6
The problem with culture that does not, will not, or perhaps cannot shift is that the virtues of one era can become the destructive tendencies within another era. In WWII we changed our entire domestic industrial base into a giant war machine which created so much state of the art weaponry that we were the marvel of the world. We brought that energy into building our highway system just as we had built the railroads a century before. But now, we can't do anything. Our cities crumble, our roads are in disrepair, our people are obese, our climate is deteriorating but our culture now works against us. Today, at the moment we need to regulate and rein in our industries we are pushing for deregulation. At the very moment that we need policies of progressive taxation to pump money into our economy we have anti-tax movements everywhere. Our culture is getting the best of us. Times have changed but we haven't.
3
What strikes me as that the Pew question is a distinctly American spin on the issue. In reality the "freedom to pursue life's goals" is founded on freedom from need.
4
The author says resources but the only one that really counts is oil (and coal and natl gas, I mean fossil fuels) and that is because energy is a master resource, it brings everything else (water, food, plastic, cotton, etc.). The US has 800 cars per 1000 people versus 400-500 cars per 1000 people in Europe or Japan. And the US has long, for centuries, been using its energy to impose its will on others and force them into the dismal fossil fuel harness too. But it is mostly the Americans themselves that pay the price as they have to make obtaining fossil fuels a huge priority at the expense of many other things. I lived there for 30 years, btw.
5
First of all, you can never make anyone equal. You are born into a family that may or may not have parenting that affords you daily caring, emotional well being, or safety. You can not throw enough money at this to fix human genetics, human behavior, or pretty much any thing else. Money cannot make you smart, happy, a super athlete, a great business person, a good parent, a good neighbor, a good spouse, or a good citizen. The sooner we agree on that, the better off we will all be. Somewhere, those who have attained too many degrees over the last 40 years, missed taking or believing in what was in the textbooks in classes in anthropology, biology, and sociology. My husband was from a group of Mennonites, born with extremely good talents with music, art, woodworking, and brains. But each individual is born with different amounts of common sense, self control, anger, etc. Plus, both his genetics, grandparents, who were obese, and his childhood diet was high in fat, sugar, and salt, because their culture made that type of food, and all of his siblings have suffered from heart disease. You cannot make some people more sane than they are. Live in a small town long enough, and you would realize most of the above.
1
Comparing Apples and Oranges never works.
Europe has always been overly supportive of governments demands - didn't work out too well though during the Hitler years. Taxes are astronomical so middle class people live in small houses, drive simple cars, and when on summer vacation load their car trunks with potatoes and toilet paper. Also Europe is small, about 35% the size of the US but has more than 400 million people as opposed to about 300 million here - explains why train and road systems are in excellent shape especially when considering the high fuel taxes. Rich Europeans tend to brag about going to Florida or Hawaii for their summer vacations or have the latest in Apple, Microsoft, or Google inventions while at the same time bragging that Europe has developed equally good systems - the undercurrent being that they want to be equal or better than USA friends.
Americans indeed are too quick with spending money using credit cards rather than cash, owning cars the seize of their living room, and thinking too highly of themselves when their kids get a Bachelor degree (Western Europe only respects students with a Masters degree - Bachelor degrees don't exist).
Again, Apples and Oranges don't mix too well and both sides of the Atlantic have good stuff and bad stuff. It should be recognized though that Europeans always look at how the US is progressing and how the US can help them when in military trouble - never the other way around.
Europe has always been overly supportive of governments demands - didn't work out too well though during the Hitler years. Taxes are astronomical so middle class people live in small houses, drive simple cars, and when on summer vacation load their car trunks with potatoes and toilet paper. Also Europe is small, about 35% the size of the US but has more than 400 million people as opposed to about 300 million here - explains why train and road systems are in excellent shape especially when considering the high fuel taxes. Rich Europeans tend to brag about going to Florida or Hawaii for their summer vacations or have the latest in Apple, Microsoft, or Google inventions while at the same time bragging that Europe has developed equally good systems - the undercurrent being that they want to be equal or better than USA friends.
Americans indeed are too quick with spending money using credit cards rather than cash, owning cars the seize of their living room, and thinking too highly of themselves when their kids get a Bachelor degree (Western Europe only respects students with a Masters degree - Bachelor degrees don't exist).
Again, Apples and Oranges don't mix too well and both sides of the Atlantic have good stuff and bad stuff. It should be recognized though that Europeans always look at how the US is progressing and how the US can help them when in military trouble - never the other way around.
4
Americans believe in "freedom" to succeed or fail. We believe that extreme economic inequality is the carrot that motivates success. I believe we are completely wrong about this.
Maslow says that people are motivated by a hierarch of needs. When our needs for basic survival are met we then are motivated for personal growth and development and social contributions. If we provide economic security to everyone then everyone would be working towards personal growth and social contributions. Our nation would be much better off with 300 million people each working to better themselves and our nation than we are with 300,000 hoarding all of our wealth.
Maslow says that people are motivated by a hierarch of needs. When our needs for basic survival are met we then are motivated for personal growth and development and social contributions. If we provide economic security to everyone then everyone would be working towards personal growth and social contributions. Our nation would be much better off with 300 million people each working to better themselves and our nation than we are with 300,000 hoarding all of our wealth.
3
You might add to your formulation at least one other American trait for which we pay an often painful price, a gun culture that includes millions of Americans for whom the right to bear arms (even military arms) bears within it the not so secret agenda that they might have to use those weapons against a government that they might one day feel has gone too far in restricting their unique individualism. What you have described is the real nature of our so-called exceptionalism.
1
The American character Cohen describes is that of an infant, always
striving for immediate gratification!
striving for immediate gratification!
Some might say we produce as much as we do to meet the market demands of consumption, but I think we consume as much as we do because we overproduce. We overproduce to maintain a production capacity that we don't really need. However, we need to keep people busy and employed. We need to be busy at work, watching TV or our "smart" phones because we don't know how to face one another, the society we have created and recreate daily or the natural world. Overconsumption and overproductivity help us maintain a barrier to the world around us. I'm don't believe this represents any kind of virtue.
1
I associate obesity, from personal experience, with anger and aggressivity. I don't know how these things are linked, but somehow they are. Is this yet another dark side of American "individualism?" And at what point did the Lonesome Cowboy as symbol of a certain America morph and become the Murderous Cop?
2
We have freedom? What freedom?
Every where I go there is a camera, whether in someone's pocket or mounted to a building. Zero privacy.
Unless I dig real deep I am only offered processed garbage and sugars disguised as food in my supermarkets.
I have very few choices of airlines, cable companies, news outlets, etc.
Please, please my fellow sheep. We are not free. We are being led to the slaughter by the few in power.
Every where I go there is a camera, whether in someone's pocket or mounted to a building. Zero privacy.
Unless I dig real deep I am only offered processed garbage and sugars disguised as food in my supermarkets.
I have very few choices of airlines, cable companies, news outlets, etc.
Please, please my fellow sheep. We are not free. We are being led to the slaughter by the few in power.
5
I guess you have not been to London recently; there are cameras literally on every street corner.
The problem with that "creative churn" (in addition to the sociopathic ones elaborated in this excellent column) is that it's also far too connected to entrepreneurship --- and therefore, to profit motive. The life of Nicola Tesla --- the inventor of AC generators/motors & therefore the electrical system that powers this planet --- is instructive. Incredibly brilliant creative mind (albeit a tad wacky), he suffered because he wasn't as great as some other electrical engineers at competing for investor capital and profits. The "cowboy mentality" in its capitalist context described by Mr. Cohen is far too ingrained in the US, as illustrated by the kneejerk revulsion against the mention of socialism. In Europe, the social contract is much better accepted. Tesla's brilliance was evident in his native Serbia/Croatia, but the climate in the US was better suited to its engineering actualization; this seems to be the pro-con of America --- more receptivity to individual achievement with less regard for collective economic and physical health, possibly including such drawbacks as a higher rate of interpersonal violence (of all types). The question is, can we ever slide a bit more toward the European model to better balance those two factors.
2
I think Roger Cohen's larger point about crumbling infrastructure and decaying cities is more important and more urgent. Regardless of whether Americans think they are individualistic and think they can survive on the range with no help, truth is they cannot. They need the cities, they need the infrastructure, they need good systems of schools, police, food, and on and on. Most of us are busy providing these services and making use of them. We are in this together and those who refuse to see this are fools or worse.
606
San Francisco is not crumbling and neither is Kansas City. New York however can't seem to even scrape the rust off the Brooklyn Bridge. I have photos of the bridge. We keep the Golden Gate Bridge in beautiful shape. Maybe he's just talking about New York.
1
Michael Moore's "Stupid White Men" makes the point that much of Europe is hurrying to catch up. (Incidentally it had to be sidelined as its rollout was due on 9/11, so the European edition was available first and contained some juicy tidbits about the good ole US of A.)
It is notable that sociopathy has become more acceptable (witness Trump, but things have changed elsewhere, where sociopathic sources such as Drudge are now acknowledged publicly as legitimate) and some evangelicals have rewritten the teachings of Jesus to indicate that success is a sign of god's favor and failure a sign of sin, so helping the less fortunate is no longer encouraged.
It is notable that sociopathy has become more acceptable (witness Trump, but things have changed elsewhere, where sociopathic sources such as Drudge are now acknowledged publicly as legitimate) and some evangelicals have rewritten the teachings of Jesus to indicate that success is a sign of god's favor and failure a sign of sin, so helping the less fortunate is no longer encouraged.
The issue/question/problem (?) of private prosperity and public poverty is an old one in the US, although Mr. Cohen seems to have just become aware of it. It reflects choices Americans make, choices that are deeply reflected in the history, culture, education and moral universe of the US. Clearly, Europe has had more of a tradition of socialism, corporatism, fascism, and various types of "communitarianism." So what?
Europe is largely a sclerotic entity, with fear driving social protection and adversity to any form of militancy, even when European society is threatened. Perhaps it is the legacy and human cost of the two world wars in the last century. However, the top-down, let the government provide, sentiments in Europe are not as widely shared in the US. As for individualism and shared collective responsibility, Europe has been happy to let the US do the heavy lifting in protecting Europe, even from itself, as the Bosnian horror show indicated. Now, faced with a resurgent and aggressive Russia, it is the US that is expected to face the challenge - while Europe cringes.
One tires of the ongoing contrasts between a supposedly enlightened Europe and the benighted US. Americans tend to accept the outcomes of the individualistic culture they nurture. Europeans, except for the UK, seem to prefer bureaucratic, top-down, paternalistic government and economic institutions. Each should be judged according to the success of the outcomes in light of intentions.
Europe is largely a sclerotic entity, with fear driving social protection and adversity to any form of militancy, even when European society is threatened. Perhaps it is the legacy and human cost of the two world wars in the last century. However, the top-down, let the government provide, sentiments in Europe are not as widely shared in the US. As for individualism and shared collective responsibility, Europe has been happy to let the US do the heavy lifting in protecting Europe, even from itself, as the Bosnian horror show indicated. Now, faced with a resurgent and aggressive Russia, it is the US that is expected to face the challenge - while Europe cringes.
One tires of the ongoing contrasts between a supposedly enlightened Europe and the benighted US. Americans tend to accept the outcomes of the individualistic culture they nurture. Europeans, except for the UK, seem to prefer bureaucratic, top-down, paternalistic government and economic institutions. Each should be judged according to the success of the outcomes in light of intentions.
1
"They won’t go the German route of promoting renewables like solar and wind power by guaranteeing higher fixed prices for those who generate it because higher electricity costs would result. "
Old data. Germany's route is nearly unnecessary, now. Solar grid parity is likely in about 80% of the world by 2017. The costs of solar will continue to dive after that. The new wave of storage battery technology will also make solar energy stored during the day available at night. All that happened not only due to America's "revving" but also Germany's wise solar promotion and cheap Chinese labor. Countries and cultures working together can accomplish great things.
According to a recent NYT article, US obesity is dropping, too. The trend is hopeful.
Old data. Germany's route is nearly unnecessary, now. Solar grid parity is likely in about 80% of the world by 2017. The costs of solar will continue to dive after that. The new wave of storage battery technology will also make solar energy stored during the day available at night. All that happened not only due to America's "revving" but also Germany's wise solar promotion and cheap Chinese labor. Countries and cultures working together can accomplish great things.
According to a recent NYT article, US obesity is dropping, too. The trend is hopeful.
3
I think that you are probably right about this. But you don't take this to its logical conclusion: the US is doomed to failure. The rabid individualism in the US has led to the valorization of predatory capitalism and an almost sociopathic approach to society. As more and more Americans fall through the cracks of a failing social structure, as more and more fall out of the middle class, the very economic dynamism that made the US successful will be limited to the very few. The result will be inevitable decline, growing inequity and hopelessness. Americans can revel in their individualism as they suffer alone, ignoring each other as they fall. Or, they can realize that the sociopathic myths that have brought the country to this point are self-destructive and decide that being part of a society and actually caring about each other and maybe even people beyond US borders is a positive and necessary development.
4
Mr. Cohen, I agree with most of what you write in this column, and in this space, in general. But I am afraid I fail to see the American "rev" of which you speak. Please, point me to it. More likely, I see bling, bluster and aging hipsters desperately striving to remain relevant with lots of talk about the latest buzzwords - collaboration and innovation - but very little evidence that it ever really happens. Where is the energy and the vitality? The GOP frontrunner is actually a vulgar loudmouth who has declared bankruptsy five times, all while deeming all who disagree with him either a loser or (if a woman) unattractive.
I don't think we are hardwired for these attitudes. I certainly am not. I grew up in a house where we turned off the lights before leaving a room, wore hand me downs, and were taught that the choices we made affected other people. The attitudes you describe are choices people make. That so many in this country continue to make these choices despite all the evidence that it is killing us as a nation leaves me in dismay. To have immigrated to Europe at whateve the cost years ago, that is my one true regret.
I don't think we are hardwired for these attitudes. I certainly am not. I grew up in a house where we turned off the lights before leaving a room, wore hand me downs, and were taught that the choices we made affected other people. The attitudes you describe are choices people make. That so many in this country continue to make these choices despite all the evidence that it is killing us as a nation leaves me in dismay. To have immigrated to Europe at whateve the cost years ago, that is my one true regret.
4
Back around 1950 the social critic Russell Lynes declared "the paper plate is the symbol of our age." Alas, the same could be said today as it could of the "selfie."
1
Two comments: 1) Americans excel at innovation, as the article notes; but we also excel at assimilating immigrants, who still do extraordinarily well in the US, whereas Europeans do very badly in this area -- at great cost to their capacity to maintain a demographic balance and growth, let alone a diverse population. 2) Some, but admittedly not all, of the "excesses" noted in the US are regional issues, and at risk of oversimplification are "red state/blue state" issues. Obesity is demonstrably higher in certain regions of the country than in others; there are wind farms and commitments to energy conservation in others. To emphasize, it is easy to oversimplify this distinction, but I am convinced it is real.
1
Mr. Cohen & the Paarlberg he writes about need to study the definition of socialism because that's what they are both advocating. Americans are "persuaded that responsibility is individual rather collective", are you kidding?
Rather than you as an individual giving to help another, you want the government to do it.
Just because Americans are skeptical about the global warming lie, that doesn't make us over consumers.
Mr. Cohen if you think the rest of the world is so great, please leave. I've traveled most of the world and the US is
the greatest country in the world. Our air and streets are cleaner than anywhere else.
Rather than you as an individual giving to help another, you want the government to do it.
Just because Americans are skeptical about the global warming lie, that doesn't make us over consumers.
Mr. Cohen if you think the rest of the world is so great, please leave. I've traveled most of the world and the US is
the greatest country in the world. Our air and streets are cleaner than anywhere else.
2
Doesn't the ability of a society to work together towards common goals require a relatively homogenous society (see Japan) or a relatively small population (see much of Europe) that can more or less agree on what those common goals are? In a country of some 320 million people, give or take a few million, with diverse geography, diverse backgrounds and diverse interests, is it too surprising that we cannot agree on much of anything?
There is also the problem of defining need when the state “guarantees that nobody is in need.” Where to draw the line so that "need" doesn't become a catch-all term leading to some members of society wanting more and more, all to satisfy their "needs," at the expense of others?
Still, our crumbling infrastructure and the ever-increasing cost of ‘natural’ disasters tell us that we need to do things differently. Right now, no one wants to pay for something that will benefit “others,” so our cities and transportation networks are neglected. We are still arguing about whether to accept the well-established science of climate change, even as severe drought is barbequing the western half of our country, weather extremes are becoming the norm throughout the land, and the aquifers that feed our farms (and thus people) are being drained faster than can be naturally replenished.
Somewhere between the European model and the American free-for-all is the answer. The question is what, and can we find it?
There is also the problem of defining need when the state “guarantees that nobody is in need.” Where to draw the line so that "need" doesn't become a catch-all term leading to some members of society wanting more and more, all to satisfy their "needs," at the expense of others?
Still, our crumbling infrastructure and the ever-increasing cost of ‘natural’ disasters tell us that we need to do things differently. Right now, no one wants to pay for something that will benefit “others,” so our cities and transportation networks are neglected. We are still arguing about whether to accept the well-established science of climate change, even as severe drought is barbequing the western half of our country, weather extremes are becoming the norm throughout the land, and the aquifers that feed our farms (and thus people) are being drained faster than can be naturally replenished.
Somewhere between the European model and the American free-for-all is the answer. The question is what, and can we find it?
4
"Individualism trumps all — and innovation, it is somehow believed, will save the country from individualism’s ravages."
But, in America, innovation is the engine of Capitalism. The goal of innovation is to make money so one can hoard and fill-up and consume and vacation and build a perfect house and have two refrigerators filled with any type of soda. Individuals get creative and innovate for selfish reasons. To innovate is evolution, to hoard is natural. But, Perhaps we need some sort of primal transformation, an evolutionary step of sorts, maybe brought on by climate change, that forces our innovation to be all about the communal good, rather than the individual's quest to hoard. Our monetary system is counter-intuitive to this step because it feeds our animistic, natural desire to hoard, to squirrel away the nuts for retirement because everyone is on their own. Money-less, indigenous societies don't live like this. Is it possible to have an innovative, modern, "indigenous" society without currency, but still motivated to innovate, not for individual comfort or fame or recognition, but for the betterment and survival of the community, of all families?
But, in America, innovation is the engine of Capitalism. The goal of innovation is to make money so one can hoard and fill-up and consume and vacation and build a perfect house and have two refrigerators filled with any type of soda. Individuals get creative and innovate for selfish reasons. To innovate is evolution, to hoard is natural. But, Perhaps we need some sort of primal transformation, an evolutionary step of sorts, maybe brought on by climate change, that forces our innovation to be all about the communal good, rather than the individual's quest to hoard. Our monetary system is counter-intuitive to this step because it feeds our animistic, natural desire to hoard, to squirrel away the nuts for retirement because everyone is on their own. Money-less, indigenous societies don't live like this. Is it possible to have an innovative, modern, "indigenous" society without currency, but still motivated to innovate, not for individual comfort or fame or recognition, but for the betterment and survival of the community, of all families?
3
It struck me as I read this pessimistic commentary that the opportunity cost of George W. Bush's "go shopping" reaction to 9/11 continues to escalate. Imagine the country we might be if instead of ignoring the almost universal desire on the part of Americans to do something in light of our collective trauma, he had asked us to conserve energy or pay a carbon tax to curb emissions or build infrastructure. Now, with our distain for each other and the government, I am concerned that animosity defines us. How tragic that we lost a rare moment, following a national tragedy, to prove that we can accomplish more working together than we can as individuals, burdened by internecine battles for power.
3
To your summation of France versus the US I would add "The French government fears its people and thus acts accordingly, in the US the people fear the government".
America's creative churn, vitality and energy may be intrinsic to its vices but as we all know vices eventually destroy us.
America's creative churn, vitality and energy may be intrinsic to its vices but as we all know vices eventually destroy us.
5
That is very good column. Excess, greed and crazy individualism are the American virtues that are also destructive vices. Everything is over the top, from the stuff put in a coffee to the number of kinds of coffee, from venti to super-double-venti to double-supersize-suv and triple-size -tvs and everything-double-triple-super.
2
In such a dog eat dog world, there won't be anything left but one big fat dog. We're halfway there with the atrocious income inequality that shows no sign of abating as the 1% continue to suck the wealth from the American economy and deposit it in personal off-shore bank accounts.
5
What you overlook is the fact that America is the land of opportunity.
Face it, if Donald Trump can become a Billionaire, who can't?
Face it, if Donald Trump can become a Billionaire, who can't?
2
It helps to have a wealthy and successful father.
Anyone born into a thriving business can become a billionaire.
What we call individualism would be called narcissism everywhere else.
36
If people want to consume sugar sweetened drinks and fast food to excess and become obese, let them. The health problems that result are largely individual. Yes, there are increased costs borne by medicare/medicaid/insurance, but they are to some extent offset by shortened life expectancy (is there any data on that). Carbon consumption is different because of the broad impact on climate and I support tax and other cost based solutions to reduce it. However, conflating the two issues hurts the chances of progress on carbon consumption more than it helps the cause of controlling obesity -- efforts at the latter, such as NYC's failed attempt to limit serving sizes for sugar-based drinks makes government intervention generally look ridiculous to many (think of the image of the nanny state).
1
Joel, there is substantial, credible data that shows the consequences of the food/lifestyle choices we make in this country, the resulting obesity, diabetes, heart disease, etc and how it translates into billions in additional health care costs every year. I don't think that it's as simple as "... if people want to consume to excess, let them". There are real consequences and they are costly. The challenge is how to shift the behavior and ultimately the paradigm. We consume to excess in this country and have for generations. It will take a lot of effort to change that.
The US lost it's heading. Never seen this country been so polarized. The US always needed a materialized opponent. Neither the future nor being an united society seems to be an inspiration. An idealist without a vision just get's tired and hard to motivate for anything.
1
All these are good and important points. A question is whether American disfunction (and it absolutely is severe and obvious when Europe is compared) can be found owed to some basic error.
Maybe not, as often the case with problems of big, complex, highly evolved systems.
But if there is a basic error, here is a possibility: the dominance of our politics by big-money interests driven by greed and not social responsibility.
Maybe not, as often the case with problems of big, complex, highly evolved systems.
But if there is a basic error, here is a possibility: the dominance of our politics by big-money interests driven by greed and not social responsibility.
2
It's amazing that Roger Cohen's article provoked so few commenters to respond. Just wondering why his comparison of American behavior in contrast to the behavior of those living in foreign countries did not provoke many more to voice their opinions. I would imagine that those who value individual freedom above any some government restrictions would criticize Mr.Cohen's opinion as socialistic in nature. Many in this country cannot understand that cultural behavior for the welfare of all supercedes all.
Fear not: Thanks to the anointed presidential candidates - Hillary Clinton and Jeb Bush - Change Is Coming at last!
America is not socialistic (large government) but individualistic, freedom loving (small government, free market, etc.)?
I would say this is not the case at all. America is highly socialistic, even extremely so, just not socialistic according to the liberal democratic notion of socialism--in fact America is highly socialistic precisely where the strongest declarations of individualism and freedom exist. Take the United States military: That is the most socialistic institution in the United States--just not socialism in the liberal democratic sense. In the military one does not own property, one sleeps in barracks, all are equal and the government pays for all.
Which is to say America is extremely socialistic but in an archaic, Spartan sense--and ironically by precisely the party--Republicans, conservatives--who declare themselves most against socialism (add in strong religion to military virtues and it becomes even more clear). America actually has two rough types of socialism in conflict with each other and the vaunted individuality of America lies somewhere in between the two.
But the really strong type of socialism in America is the archaic socialism of military unity, which is to say America has not been that successful at a liberal democratic type of socialism. Contrast this with Germany which recently had a dangerous National Socialism then moved quite smoothly to a more liberal democratic socialism. Crux and key: Nations must manage socialistic transformations.
I would say this is not the case at all. America is highly socialistic, even extremely so, just not socialistic according to the liberal democratic notion of socialism--in fact America is highly socialistic precisely where the strongest declarations of individualism and freedom exist. Take the United States military: That is the most socialistic institution in the United States--just not socialism in the liberal democratic sense. In the military one does not own property, one sleeps in barracks, all are equal and the government pays for all.
Which is to say America is extremely socialistic but in an archaic, Spartan sense--and ironically by precisely the party--Republicans, conservatives--who declare themselves most against socialism (add in strong religion to military virtues and it becomes even more clear). America actually has two rough types of socialism in conflict with each other and the vaunted individuality of America lies somewhere in between the two.
But the really strong type of socialism in America is the archaic socialism of military unity, which is to say America has not been that successful at a liberal democratic type of socialism. Contrast this with Germany which recently had a dangerous National Socialism then moved quite smoothly to a more liberal democratic socialism. Crux and key: Nations must manage socialistic transformations.
1
Roger, don't get too carried away with the myth of "freedom" in the US. On German autobahns, people can drive at very high speeds or almost without limits, but America sticks to very conservative speed restrictions on the road. In all of Europe and many other countries, prostitution is legal, but American men are prohibited from purchasing sexual services, for example. It's not all unbridled individualism and freedom in the US, religious Puritanism involves some restrictions.
4
You are right on target. A good deal of our over-consumption stems from our disastrous reliance on automobile-oriented development. This in turn stemmed from our incurable concentration on freedom. But even the European version of development is not sustainable. Global economy is founded on growth, and there are limits to growth - there is only one earth and to provide western-style living for 7 billion people, let along the 11 to 14 now projected by the UN, would require several earths. Global civilization is headed for collapse, but exactly how it will come about is unpredictable. In the biggest picture, the impending catastrophe was made inevitable by the evolution of human ability to overcome environmental limits. Ecological balance depends upon environmental limits, and we have pushed them back until now, when we have reached the ultimate limit, the carrying capacity of the earth. We have destroyed the pre-existing ecological balance and brought about the 6th extinction. Another way of looking at it: evolution establishes an identity between needs and wants through competition for scarce resources. Humans have broken that link, and have satisfied their wants at the expense of their needs. Until now.
2
The analysis is superficial. The reality is and has always been, from the "internal improvements" of the 1830s through the building of the transcontinental railroads and the massive giveaways of land that accompanied it, through the interstate highway system, and on and on, that government aid, support, and activity is central to American life. The question is who gets the support: those who have the wealth and power to lobby for it successfully, or those who most desperately need it. The ideology of American individualism, which has some validity in our economic and social reality to be sure, serves as a cover and justification for the rampant inequalities of the society. Historically there have been exceptions: the periods of "reform," such as the Progressive era and the New Deal, saw some attempts to use government at every level (municipal, state, federal) on behalf of the masses of the population. (The most recent such partially successful effort, of course, is Obamacare -- and what a struggle it has been.) But these efforts, seen in the long view, have been fitful, partial, and fought every inch of the way by powerful entrenched economic interests/elites -- often employing the rhetoric of individualism. So the American/European distinction is not really government vs. no government, but government on whose behalf. The fact that so many Americans respond in the poll as they do is more a testament to false consciousness than anything else.
16
When our economy depends on people spending, spending - buying all manner of things we don't need, this is the result. Money is the motivator for television ads hawking food and drinks that are making us obese. Money and profit is the reason many will never be able to pay for the prescription drugs needed to cure their illnesses. Money in politics and government will never let the common good prevail. I love my country and it makes me sad to see us waste so much time and energy on needless excess.
8
Mr. Cohen's article is most enlightening.
Two other characteristics of the Americans, in comparison to the Europeans, should be mentioned: (1) The tradition of the Wild West, with all its good (hard work of the settlers) and bad (shoot first, ask questions later); (2) The possible effect of the Statue of Liberty on the very heterogeneous U.S. population in the 19th century, where many took the word "Liberty" in its literal sense to mean no restraints on antisocial and even criminal behavior for the sole benefit of the individual.
Two other characteristics of the Americans, in comparison to the Europeans, should be mentioned: (1) The tradition of the Wild West, with all its good (hard work of the settlers) and bad (shoot first, ask questions later); (2) The possible effect of the Statue of Liberty on the very heterogeneous U.S. population in the 19th century, where many took the word "Liberty" in its literal sense to mean no restraints on antisocial and even criminal behavior for the sole benefit of the individual.
2
Just note the road pigs who crowd, pass or cut in front of you while commanding their too large and too powerful vehicles. Would love to have pervasive highway cameras to ticket and fine every one of them because almost never does a cop pull them over.
2
An average European is more informed and is better attuned to what's happening around them. And this is evident in their Political process as well. So I strongly doubt that 58% in US who chose freedom understand what it actually means! Freedom comes with responsiblity and if last election turnout is any evidence (36%), Americans are hardly the freedom lovers.
3
Good column that encompasses many important ideas. But look at immigration patterns. Worldwide, where do people want to move?
1
You seem to imply that people overwhelmingly want to move to the US. But I'm not sure.
People in failed states move wherever they can, which usually means what's closest. So people in the Americas move to the US while people in Africa and the Middle East move to Europe.
It would be interesting to know if more people move from Europe to the US than vice versa.
People in failed states move wherever they can, which usually means what's closest. So people in the Americas move to the US while people in Africa and the Middle East move to Europe.
It would be interesting to know if more people move from Europe to the US than vice versa.
1
According to a 2012 Gallup poll, 13% of the world's adults want to emigrate from the country where they are. Of those approximately 640 million people, 23% want to come to the U.S. But note that means 77% have another destination in mind.
apparently "they" want to move to the u s and to europe to whichever happens to be nearest. and it would be hard to convince me that the latinos slipping across our southern border have freedom as their primary priority.
1
Most of us probably are not surprised by the fact that Europeans place greater reliance on government safety nets than Americans, but seeing the large divergence of the actual numbers and the clear trend of a widening disparity is shocking. Not to minimize the obesity figures quoted by Roger Cohen or to doubt their relevance to the overall European-American variance in attitudes, the broader numbers are more interesting because they explain so much about the economics and politics of the two centers of Western culture.
The numbers tell us why the austerity forced by Angela Merkel of Germany, so harmful in times of recession, were and are largely accepted by Europeans. The austerity does not greatly alter the life style of people secure with their safety nets and already having a focus on the simpler, less possession-driven pleasures of life.
The numbers explain why large numbers of Americans vote against their own economic self-interest, when Republicans present the choices in the stark context of government control versus individual freedom. The numbers clarify too that accomplishing the repair of a crumbling infrastructure in America must overcome not only the cost factor, but also the lack of communal pride in having public systems which work well and are attractive.
We have work to do here, in more ways than one.
The numbers tell us why the austerity forced by Angela Merkel of Germany, so harmful in times of recession, were and are largely accepted by Europeans. The austerity does not greatly alter the life style of people secure with their safety nets and already having a focus on the simpler, less possession-driven pleasures of life.
The numbers explain why large numbers of Americans vote against their own economic self-interest, when Republicans present the choices in the stark context of government control versus individual freedom. The numbers clarify too that accomplishing the repair of a crumbling infrastructure in America must overcome not only the cost factor, but also the lack of communal pride in having public systems which work well and are attractive.
We have work to do here, in more ways than one.
8
Maybe America's problems have less to do with the vast geographic distance separating citizens, and more to do with this bizarre definition of freedom that we keep perpetuating: immunity from state intrusion. This shoddy and ahistorical use of the term means that all liberty is seen as negative--the right to be left alone--a definition that has been calcified by nearly a century of anti-socialist propaganda. It is then perpetuated by "very smart people" at Pew polls, who provide people a false choice between freedom and security.
But these concepts are not opposed. A hundred-fifty years ago, the Victorian political theorist John Stuart Mill started to formulate the concept of positive liberty; two hundred years ago, Hegel argued that one could not realize their true potential without the intercession of another; and two hundred twenty years ago Thomas Paine argued that every free American citizen should be provided a tract of land on which to realize their agrarian vision, and to ward off any aristocratic concentration of wealth.
We can prove their point with a simple thought experiment: would you feel more or less free to pursue your dreams, if we had a single-payer health care system in place in the U.S.?
But these concepts are not opposed. A hundred-fifty years ago, the Victorian political theorist John Stuart Mill started to formulate the concept of positive liberty; two hundred years ago, Hegel argued that one could not realize their true potential without the intercession of another; and two hundred twenty years ago Thomas Paine argued that every free American citizen should be provided a tract of land on which to realize their agrarian vision, and to ward off any aristocratic concentration of wealth.
We can prove their point with a simple thought experiment: would you feel more or less free to pursue your dreams, if we had a single-payer health care system in place in the U.S.?
20
I feel I am lost in Wonderland here. The whole country seems clueless about its basic theory of law: contracts. Liberty is the power to negotiate one's contracts equitably.
I usually love Cohen's columns, but this one was lazy, antiquated, and clearly not well researched. The US has reduced its green house emissions by far more than Europe over the past 10yrs. The US is in the process of closing its coal plants while Germany is reopening theirs. Furthermore, it is the US' technology that is advancing the fight against climate change. The US has the most efficient solar panels and wind turbines. On the food front, again the US is changing. Look at the growth of the farmer market industry or even Whole Foods. I know people love to dump on the US, but if this world has a bright future it will come from American technology and innovation, not Eurpean pessimism (clearly Cohen spent too much time there)
154
Not sure I would say we've cut emissions "far more" than Europe, and besides we have a ways to go before we are on par with their per capita emissions. Also, I think that China is the one that is producing the most efficient solar technology. Our technology and innovation is great, but there is also little denying that we are very inefficient with energy.
I think, what Mr. Cohen refers to, is the mind boggling disparity between economic classes. To watch this spectacle of waste and need leaves the rest of the world aghast.
We reduced C02 emissions because they were extraordinarily high to begin with. Green house emissions generally have probably increased, because of leaking methane. Same with obesity.
Roger is idealizing Europe, bathing it people in a radiant glow of self-abnegation and virtuousness. If only. One don't know where to begin itemizing Europe's demons. Today it's the northern countries' dismemberment of Greece and its harsh policy toward immigration, but the longstanding, medieval hatred of The Other––Jews, Roma, North Africans––is extant.
Metaphorically speaking, yes, we're obese, but they're not supermodels. Europe hides its evils behind a cloak of civility. Ours are available for viewing. Which society is more honest?
Metaphorically speaking, yes, we're obese, but they're not supermodels. Europe hides its evils behind a cloak of civility. Ours are available for viewing. Which society is more honest?
208
Quite frankly, I'll trade a "cloak of civility" for evil honesty. As my grandmother always said: "Home habits tend of spill to the public square." Eventually forced civilization becomes ingrained. And, I, as a woman, for one, LIKE civilization.
"The first law of silence was instituted by Elizabeth I, Queen of England, when she forbade husband from beating their wives after 10 pm so their screams would not disturb the neighbors."
Thank you, Lilibeth I for that "cloak of civility"!
"The first law of silence was instituted by Elizabeth I, Queen of England, when she forbade husband from beating their wives after 10 pm so their screams would not disturb the neighbors."
Thank you, Lilibeth I for that "cloak of civility"!
A cloak of civility is correct, is there a European country in which one can even imagine a person of color being elected to the highest office in the land? (many have been around far far longer than the USA) Can you think of Any European country that would automatically confer citizenship to the immigrant child of a poor mother giving that child an opportunity to change his/her fortune in life? (many of us, including some of our billionaires, got their first lucky break by benefitting from this generous American constitutional guarantee!) America (still) has many wonderful qualities
It's the amazing rise in inequality that has eaten up American's original virtue, that if you work hard, the state will be there to help you succeed no matter who your mother or father was, this country used to guarantee that right by govt heavily subsidizing education and limiting corporate interference in politics. It doesn't do that anymore (gerrymandering, citizens united, unfettered lobbying etc) America used to be a stark contrast to Europe's more class based society where upward mobility was limited if you weren't born into the right family; in my view, we've become less American that way and more European, we're turning into societies our ancestors attempted to escape.
It's the amazing rise in inequality that has eaten up American's original virtue, that if you work hard, the state will be there to help you succeed no matter who your mother or father was, this country used to guarantee that right by govt heavily subsidizing education and limiting corporate interference in politics. It doesn't do that anymore (gerrymandering, citizens united, unfettered lobbying etc) America used to be a stark contrast to Europe's more class based society where upward mobility was limited if you weren't born into the right family; in my view, we've become less American that way and more European, we're turning into societies our ancestors attempted to escape.
1
Given that you're comparing relations between nominally competing nations to our own internal lack of self-respect and discipline, this comment is really shallow.
"Civility" and "civilization" have the same root. Since we long ago abandoned civility as a norm in favor of the law of the jungle, doesn't that make our "honesty" a lot less civilized?
Germany taking advantage of the inherent flaws in economic union without political union is hardly a fit comparison to our own neglect and cruel indifference to our own people and the places we call home.
"Civility" and "civilization" have the same root. Since we long ago abandoned civility as a norm in favor of the law of the jungle, doesn't that make our "honesty" a lot less civilized?
Germany taking advantage of the inherent flaws in economic union without political union is hardly a fit comparison to our own neglect and cruel indifference to our own people and the places we call home.
1
In the meantime, the last time Europe produced anything worth noticing except for it's incredible capacity to generate the death toll in two World Wars was in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
I have spent much time in England and I have watched it go from a place where Englismen and women believed they were individuals with freedom and privacy from government to a place where everything is watched and scrutinized by the government.
I'll take rugged individualism any day.
I have spent much time in England and I have watched it go from a place where Englismen and women believed they were individuals with freedom and privacy from government to a place where everything is watched and scrutinized by the government.
I'll take rugged individualism any day.
2
The French intuit from long experience and deep reflection the many values of the "collective" -- including the how it enhances liberty and dignity. Americans have been duped into believing speciously that any collective is evil. And they fail to, or do know how to, reflect deeply enough about it.
From La Cour des Trois Freres, Paris, 11eme
From La Cour des Trois Freres, Paris, 11eme
2
America is driving SUV's at high speed en route to Third World status, with Smartwatches to let us know when we have arrived.
6
I have vivid memories of my Grandfather, who was born three weeks after President Lincoln was assassinated, shaking his head at what he considered the flightiness, rudeness, and incorrigible activities of his teen age granddaughters. Funny thing is that I, at the age of 85, am shaking my head vigorously in a response to today's generation(s)! So many are self-absorbed and bent on furthering their personal, obsessive desires, and downright rude in many instances. This country is in dire need of a totally new "course heading!" I see it every day. Lack of politeness, total disregard of others' less fortunate positions in life, over-indulging in their appetites of every kind. The right side of the political aisle bears out everything I mention. There is a lack of judgement and humility at the heart of many of today's legislators. Perhaps some of that lack comes from an educational void or misinterpreted historical information or perhaps inadequate parenting! In each case of "me-ism," not one of the type of American to whom I have referred, has the slightest interest, seemingly, in providing common sense legislation that would benefit those in need or this country's desperate need for renewable energies. It is astonishing to me that the self absorption has reached the degree where we now live in an oligarchy - not a democracy. Mr. Cohen strikes at the heart of it all when he statistically proves this country's "self"-reliance! "Self-absorption" fits even better!
3
Again, most interesting article from Mr. Cohen that speaks to the cultural differences that define us by defining others, not unlike a certain Frenchman who did so while observing our penal system. As I drive to work, I am appalled by the barely contained chaos that driving represents with trucks, big SUVs and other vehicles zooming toward some destination, the drive broken up by the encroachment of streets, business establishments and the like intersecting w/the chaos. And the eating alone! All speaks to individualism run amok! No planning for residential, business, transportation, for god forbid that we give up cars, no matter that this has resulted in systems that are close to impossible to manage, financially and safely. Trains! I live in a state where a different outlook would be beneficial to all, certainly to the worker bees who must endure much to work, to shop, to live.But this state is one believes strongly in so-called individualism," and yes, it trumps all, even if individuals are real estate moguls, road contractors, builders, private prison contractors, private charter school backers, and the ilk. Our sense of the public is not to public education, public transportation, or public squares for citizens, but to build walls, gates, and greater overpasses and additional lanes for traffic. Pessimistic? Hell yes.
2
Our ideological fixation on individual freedom and excess consumption has eroded our capacity for leadership in the global community of nations, though we like to pretend otherwise. The sham and shame of that ideology is that it is being rapidly reduced to little more than a smoke screen behind which corporations are gobbling up our freedoms to recolonize us as workers, not citizens.
1
Europe and America both have issues, and they are different at their core. I won't entertain which problems I would rather have, because it's frankly not worth pondering, they are cultural and system and we could not trade if we wanted to. Should Europe do more to unleash innovation? Yes. Should the US be more coordinated and courageous when it confronts climate change and obesity? Absolutely. But the grass is always greener, and imitation of Europe won't work. We should realize that the solution to these problems will have to be "American" and leverage the mindset we already have, rather than wishing that we had a European one. The European mindset has its drawbacks as well.
For example, the faith in "the state" in France is great, right? But what about when that vision of being "French" is so strong that it alienates its large (and invited, by the way) Muslim population? If NYT readers cringe at what Donald Trump and the extreme right wing says about immigrants, I'd encourage you to read up on popular attitudes and legislation aimed at North Africans in France and Turks in Germany.
Not to be a downer but we need to work with what we've got!
For example, the faith in "the state" in France is great, right? But what about when that vision of being "French" is so strong that it alienates its large (and invited, by the way) Muslim population? If NYT readers cringe at what Donald Trump and the extreme right wing says about immigrants, I'd encourage you to read up on popular attitudes and legislation aimed at North Africans in France and Turks in Germany.
Not to be a downer but we need to work with what we've got!
4
The funny thing about this article is that Cohen actually believes that he returned from Europe to the US and can draw conclusions thereof.
The fact is that Cohen has experienced London and maybe Paris and returns to New York or maybe Washington. He can't be affected by the dilapidated US infrastructure because he hasn't experienced all of it. He can't comment on "Europe" because he only knows a tiny slice of that continent.
I imagine that someone who lived exclusively in Beverly Hills and returned home to Sarajevo would have a completely different opinion.
The fact is that Cohen has experienced London and maybe Paris and returns to New York or maybe Washington. He can't be affected by the dilapidated US infrastructure because he hasn't experienced all of it. He can't comment on "Europe" because he only knows a tiny slice of that continent.
I imagine that someone who lived exclusively in Beverly Hills and returned home to Sarajevo would have a completely different opinion.
2
Absolutely. I wonder where he saw this "awful infrastructure" -- very likely in New Jersey, when his private jet landed at Teterboro airport.
So he is basically comparing the most affluent, lovely and touristy parts of Paris and London and Amsterdam -- with the most rundown parts of New Jersey's industrial area. Not precisely a fair comparison at ALL.
So he is basically comparing the most affluent, lovely and touristy parts of Paris and London and Amsterdam -- with the most rundown parts of New Jersey's industrial area. Not precisely a fair comparison at ALL.
These results are easy to explain.
Europe is still living under a tribal mentality.
North America was colonized by people who desperately wanted to escape that tribal mentality, and were required to live independently with their nearest monarch 3,000 miles and several weeks' sea voyage away.
What were the results in Canada? Mexico? South America?
Europe is still living under a tribal mentality.
North America was colonized by people who desperately wanted to escape that tribal mentality, and were required to live independently with their nearest monarch 3,000 miles and several weeks' sea voyage away.
What were the results in Canada? Mexico? South America?
2
While the observations in the article are well documented and hard to disagree with, it's still useful to distinguish between things like maintaining a reasonable social safety net and fixing bridges and potholes on the on one hand, and affirmatively restricting individual choice on the other. Nearly everyone agrees that some taxation is necessary, and argue only over the rate and what gets taxed. With more government income, we could maintain reasonable health care, education and welfare systems and our infrastructure. That's qualitatively different from trying to regulate and/or stigmatizing very large people and big, smelly, jacked-up pickup trucks. A lot of good has come out of restricting the role of government in people's lives, and I don't think we should tinker with that over what are essentially matters of esthetics.
Huhn. I've been to Europe and I certainly didn't see it as some clean, thriving Nirvana preferable to the US.
I saw graffiti everywhere, everyone smoking (no wonder they're not obese), historical sights neglected, trash blowing down streets, dog feces on the sidewalks, and just as much homelessness as I see here.
Either the author doesn't get out much or he mostly stayed in high-end areas of Europe.
I'll take Scottsdale, Sedona, Santa Barbara, Beacon Hill, most of Manhattan, Pulaski Heights, Prairie Village, Preston Hollow, Charleston, Beaufort, Savannah, Cape Elizabeth, the French Quarter--and many more--over Europe any day.
Get out of the corrupted cities filled with public-housing cheaters and you'll see lots of healthy, fit people, lovely neighborhoods, public spaces and shiny, new infrastructure in the US.
I saw graffiti everywhere, everyone smoking (no wonder they're not obese), historical sights neglected, trash blowing down streets, dog feces on the sidewalks, and just as much homelessness as I see here.
Either the author doesn't get out much or he mostly stayed in high-end areas of Europe.
I'll take Scottsdale, Sedona, Santa Barbara, Beacon Hill, most of Manhattan, Pulaski Heights, Prairie Village, Preston Hollow, Charleston, Beaufort, Savannah, Cape Elizabeth, the French Quarter--and many more--over Europe any day.
Get out of the corrupted cities filled with public-housing cheaters and you'll see lots of healthy, fit people, lovely neighborhoods, public spaces and shiny, new infrastructure in the US.
4
And if we could spread the benefits of those places mentioned - nation-wide - Mr. Cohen's observations might not be necessary or accurate. I wish rural New England or upstate New York or other places in the US now facing lack of jobs for younger folks, increased drug problems, declining infrastructure and investment might also look like the other places you mentioned but it is just not the case. We are both Scottsdale and Detroit, Santa Barbara and Baltimore.
1
You make a good point; Americans have largely quit smoking, and as a result, we are heavier. Quitting smoking provably causes lifelong weight gain. Smoking is a substitute for eating, and provably nicotine is an appetite suppressant (and a very effective one). Unfortunately, it causes cancer & heart disease.
Europeans are also mostly very homogeneous -- almost entirely white. They don't allow illegal immigration, and the foreigners they have a "guest workers" who can be tossed out on a moments notice.
If you took a group of ONLY white, affluent Americans they would not be any fatter than Europeans -- adjusted for smoking, of course. Most Europeans still smoke. Most Americans do not.
Europeans are also mostly very homogeneous -- almost entirely white. They don't allow illegal immigration, and the foreigners they have a "guest workers" who can be tossed out on a moments notice.
If you took a group of ONLY white, affluent Americans they would not be any fatter than Europeans -- adjusted for smoking, of course. Most Europeans still smoke. Most Americans do not.
But this country of 'rugged individualism' sure does love it's socialized medicine during old age when all that 'freedom to eat what and when I want' damage takes it's mostly irreversible toll and it's time to pay the piper. Meanwhile, those savvy job creating fast food and fossil fuel entrepreneurs have taken all the money. Nice to be able to externalize the long term costs onto society.
4
Thank you Mr. Cohen for this insightful column. I hope you or the Times will take matters a step further by exploring Pope Francis' encyclical on climate change, "Laudato si." The tract makes many deeply thoughtful observations on several subjects where all are related in producing a single catastrophic result that then loops back to exacerbate its component problems. Just as you are suggesting here. It is a loop with good values and bad values, and ones that ironically spring from the other. The Pope rightfully posits that values that one might say America personifies can be held onto but take a different form, channeled in other ways, like progress. Does progress always have to take a material form? Why can't human progress be viewed from a different lens, a spiritual one? Does change embraced in America as a highest good need be always tied to scientific and technological solutions? Can it not be seen as a more personal inward, self-affirmation value? Cannot creativity and vitality be seen as forces to be harnessed by the individual toward a better understanding of why we are put on this planet and how we should use this knowledge to make the world a better place for all, thus nourishing and strengthening the self while helping others?
3
How about we go after America's food corporations? They make food that is nutritionally worthless and just adds empty calories. They know it and they market it - especially to kids. Want chocolate cereal for breakfast? You got it! Ugh.
I read once where these food execs all get together to set prices. They sell us junk at exorbitant prices and then we ask why America is so fat and poor. How about we look at these corporations and what they're selling us, eh?
I read once where these food execs all get together to set prices. They sell us junk at exorbitant prices and then we ask why America is so fat and poor. How about we look at these corporations and what they're selling us, eh?
4
In Europe, a common breakfast is a chocolate bar wrapped in a butter-laden croissant -- delicious, but super-fattening.
Another popular breakfast is Nutella, spread on a thick slice of bread. Basically, a frosting sandwich.
Compared to that, Count Chocula is pretty much health food.
Another popular breakfast is Nutella, spread on a thick slice of bread. Basically, a frosting sandwich.
Compared to that, Count Chocula is pretty much health food.
I fully endorse our inalienable right to overeat and then to rely on "new blockbuster diet drugs” to curb our wanton indiscipline chemically and expensively. I'm sure that our Bill of Rights, concocted by government after all, contains an amendment guaranteeing our right to gluttony just as we have the sacred right to turn the nation into a massive shooting gallery.
If we were a culture with so much as a hint of maturity, we'd respect our constitutional freedom by declining to eat so much processed trash in the first place. We might also regulate guns to keep them out of the hands of terrorists, criminals, domestic abusers and people known to be mentally ill.
All of this raises the confounding question: Who is really mentally ill?
www.endthemadnessnow.org
If we were a culture with so much as a hint of maturity, we'd respect our constitutional freedom by declining to eat so much processed trash in the first place. We might also regulate guns to keep them out of the hands of terrorists, criminals, domestic abusers and people known to be mentally ill.
All of this raises the confounding question: Who is really mentally ill?
www.endthemadnessnow.org
10
It's really sad how ignorant and selfish America is in comparison to other developed countries. We pride ourselves in ignorance and gluttony. Murica the land of the freedom to shoot yourself and eat you burst.
4
When we last visited NYC we were very impressed by the helpfulness of ordinary New Yorkers. I suppose we looked like a couple of bumpkins who needed help, but people voluntarily offered assistance even when it wasn't needed. (I lived in the City for a decade before escaping to the West.) The point is that like any attempt to generalize about a country as big as ours, you miss the dramatic variations from place to place and within the population. I've often wondered what it would be like if we could shed the parts of the country that are hopelessly "American" and get on with the business of governing ourselves.
138
That's the problem! Far too many Americans cannot be trusted to 'govern themselves,' especially those who conduct themselves as businessmen. Just how many anecdotes and examples are needed before the voices of the drowned-out majority of Americans are heard, and where the sparsely populated areas of the country and their representatives can no longer dominate the conversations of the day and control the legislative processes in Washington?
I live in NYC now (after 73 years of being taken for a New Yorker despite my midwestern origins. For all the noise, chaos, and bustle I love the place, and would be very happy if we became our own country, or at least state. perhaps my old home Boston and NYC could join together (in spite of the Yankees and Red Sox) and be free of places like Louisiana and Florida. Since, in spite of Rick Perry's hints about secession, the Red States that depend so much on Federal money don't look like leaving, we could leave them.
1
I would argue New York is similar to the European countries mentioned here. There isn't a lot of space, social ills are more obvious and New Yorkers often have a "we're all in this together" attitude.
1
"To return from Europe to the United States, as I did recently, is to be struck by the crumbling infrastructure, the paucity of public spaces, the conspicuous waste (of food and energy above all), the dirtiness of cities and the acuteness of their poverty. "
Can this sweeping generalization be justified? Since his return from Europe, what cities and towns has he visited? Maybe Times readers outside of New York could give him examples of cities/towns/rural areas that are clean, well-kept, the residents good stewards of their environment, and the less economically well off do not feel "the acuteness of their poverty." The opening survey question, freedom to pursue one's individual goals vs the guarantee of basic human needs, is certainly a false dichotomy. The survey question is loaded. Mr. Cohen is sophisticated enough to spot the logical fallacy, as well as the slanted question.
Can this sweeping generalization be justified? Since his return from Europe, what cities and towns has he visited? Maybe Times readers outside of New York could give him examples of cities/towns/rural areas that are clean, well-kept, the residents good stewards of their environment, and the less economically well off do not feel "the acuteness of their poverty." The opening survey question, freedom to pursue one's individual goals vs the guarantee of basic human needs, is certainly a false dichotomy. The survey question is loaded. Mr. Cohen is sophisticated enough to spot the logical fallacy, as well as the slanted question.
3
Mr. Cohen's statement rings true from my experience of Europe and America. Europe is better kept, better run- catch a bus, train or taxi in Europe and you'll know what I mean- and better educated. But we're the Best Country In The World!
1
Americans tend to fall for myths and fairy tales whereas Europeans are more impressed with basic studies, academics and critical thinking.
'Freedom' won't get you through the average human day as much as food, water, housing and critical thinking will - all of which come from 'society' in one form or another.
Unfortunately, many American brains reject the notion of 'society' as if they were each just superheroes in a vacuum rather than the reality of having been raised by a family, raised by public education, nurtured by public roads, public police, public fire departments, public libraries, and a public legal, justice and regulatory system that protects most of us and maintains public order.
That Americans fall for the 'freedom' and 'religious' myths and fairy tales instead of giving proper credit to society and the reality of American socialism is just an indictment of Americans' weak critical thinking skills, weak public education systems, narcissism and - most importantly - the right-wing propaganda-industrial-complex that hypnotizes part of the population into a flag-waving-bible-thumping-fun-toting fugue of Freedom Derangement Syndrome.
Many Americans do have their heads screwed on straight, but until the country as a whole recognizes that each of us is part of society rather than just a bunch of craven, selfish individualists, America will remain a fat, failing 'freedom' state.
We are all part of society...an idea that many Americans still inexplicably reject.
'Freedom' won't get you through the average human day as much as food, water, housing and critical thinking will - all of which come from 'society' in one form or another.
Unfortunately, many American brains reject the notion of 'society' as if they were each just superheroes in a vacuum rather than the reality of having been raised by a family, raised by public education, nurtured by public roads, public police, public fire departments, public libraries, and a public legal, justice and regulatory system that protects most of us and maintains public order.
That Americans fall for the 'freedom' and 'religious' myths and fairy tales instead of giving proper credit to society and the reality of American socialism is just an indictment of Americans' weak critical thinking skills, weak public education systems, narcissism and - most importantly - the right-wing propaganda-industrial-complex that hypnotizes part of the population into a flag-waving-bible-thumping-fun-toting fugue of Freedom Derangement Syndrome.
Many Americans do have their heads screwed on straight, but until the country as a whole recognizes that each of us is part of society rather than just a bunch of craven, selfish individualists, America will remain a fat, failing 'freedom' state.
We are all part of society...an idea that many Americans still inexplicably reject.
185
Americans tend to fall for myths....
Are there any American myths to compare with German Naziism, Italian and Spanish fascism? Europe is a continent that has torn itself apart over myths since the 16th century.
And I don't personally know many craven, selfish individualists although I read about them all the time in the NYT Comments. Maybe "craven," etc. is one of those American myths, like the myth that Americans are rude. Want to see rude? Observe German tourists abroad.
Are there any American myths to compare with German Naziism, Italian and Spanish fascism? Europe is a continent that has torn itself apart over myths since the 16th century.
And I don't personally know many craven, selfish individualists although I read about them all the time in the NYT Comments. Maybe "craven," etc. is one of those American myths, like the myth that Americans are rude. Want to see rude? Observe German tourists abroad.
1
There may be a closer connection to our obesity and our individualism than we care to recognize . Alone in his responsibilities, the individual tries to carry his food reserves around his waist.
4
Your observation concerning "cataclysmic societal fracture" of Europe is key.
Europe has come to terms with that, America never has because as a nation we just don't do introspection or apologies.
One hundred fifty plus years after our own civil war, we still can't agree on the root cause, and continue to fight it daily in our politics in a very real way.
If you can't even agree on where you've been and the mistakes you've made, it's unlikely that you will be successful charting a productive course for the future.
All of our "vitality and energy" are misdirected and misplaced, funneled into black holes like "second amendment rights" and who do we bomb next.
Europe has come to terms with that, America never has because as a nation we just don't do introspection or apologies.
One hundred fifty plus years after our own civil war, we still can't agree on the root cause, and continue to fight it daily in our politics in a very real way.
If you can't even agree on where you've been and the mistakes you've made, it's unlikely that you will be successful charting a productive course for the future.
All of our "vitality and energy" are misdirected and misplaced, funneled into black holes like "second amendment rights" and who do we bomb next.
5
"America revs. The differences can feel violent."
The revving of America is like ADHD and, like its counterpart, very little constructive comes of all that revving. Unless we do something to counter the myth of "self-sufficiency' and the "self-made man" - which surely are myths since the frontier was not conquered by lone individuals, this country is on a short slope to destruction.
The revving of America is like ADHD and, like its counterpart, very little constructive comes of all that revving. Unless we do something to counter the myth of "self-sufficiency' and the "self-made man" - which surely are myths since the frontier was not conquered by lone individuals, this country is on a short slope to destruction.
3
I wonder if the word "Americans" in this editorial (and in Paarlberg's book) can in many places be substituted by "Republicans." A large (if not tipping) percentage of Americans do support socially conscious policies, but these are constantly undermined by Republican politicians, who I imagine accept payback from corporations. I don't think it's a matter of "American Individualism," which is hardly the negative thing its often portrayed as. Individual initiative is the driving force for creativity and positive change throughout the world. You can have individual initiative AND support socially conscious policies. But in America, individualism takes a form of "me first." Combine this with consumer-driven excess and waste and religious fundamentalism and dominionism (a key factor in this country), and you have, in my opinion, a recipe for disaster down the road. I wish I could be as optimistic as Mr. Cohen.
5
There is nothing wrong with 2 systems, different but both worthwhile in their own ways. I believe in celebrating the differences between America and Europe. Both have a lot to offer... Of course, most of the people who will comment on this page, just want to vent how much they hate their homeland....
2
For a little while longer at least, the citizens of European countries have a lot of homophily, feeling for each other because of similarity. The French know who the French are and want to support each other because Viva la France. The Germans know who the Germans are and want to support each other because Deutschland! That may change with a huge influx of people who won't or can't assimilate. And thus we come to the US original sin of slavery, which keeps us from understanding who is American; we invented the Pledge of Allegiance to try to garner more all-for-one, one-for-all sentiment, but it only works partially; visual minorities still get put down and held back. That pioneer spirit ran and runs roughshod over the native Americans. But, as founding patriot Ben Franklin said, "We must all hang together or we will surely hang separately," and Lenin said, "they will sell us the rope with which we will hang them."
1
Love the article ~~ I do, and am somewhere in between, especially as to media and culture of which you barely touch ~~ the narcissistic nature of our day to day lives moves too quickly and is unhealthy for all. However, we create as no other nation in the world creates ~~ by leaps and bounds. Is necessity the mother of invention? Is it the individualism? Could the level of entrepreneurial spirit exist in a more tempered environment? It's a good question. I could live in the peaceful hills of Italy, but would I really ~~~
1
"Individualism trumps all — and innovation, it is somehow believed, will save the country from individualism’s ravages"
It always has. And by the way, American innovation has enriched the entire world. Europeans are welcome to their collectivism, but they ought to acknowledge that they can afford the inefficiencies of their welfare states in part because of the dynamism of a free market dominated by American entrepreneurship. From medicine to transportation to computers and communications, the world is better off because of American freedom and ingenuity.
It always has. And by the way, American innovation has enriched the entire world. Europeans are welcome to their collectivism, but they ought to acknowledge that they can afford the inefficiencies of their welfare states in part because of the dynamism of a free market dominated by American entrepreneurship. From medicine to transportation to computers and communications, the world is better off because of American freedom and ingenuity.
1
No doubt you are right: in many areas progress came from the United States. Hollywood dominates the movie entertainment, but the splendid surface is built on many tragedies of would-be actors who never made it into the headlines. The European would-be actor can easily join the state-subsided "artist insurance", offering health insurance and later a basic pension. Such a European actor (or author, director, musician, ...) has less to worry about. Maybe that's our problem.
@Ruppert: you have precisely figured it out. If you support untalented loser hacks, by giving them free government money to "pretend" they are artists or actors (*without talent or drive), you get a lot of slackers who drag your society down.
Hollywood winnows out losers from winners, and gives people what they want to watch....for better or worse. They produce enough overall, that there is plenty to watch or enjoy no matter your taste.
Hollywood winnows out losers from winners, and gives people what they want to watch....for better or worse. They produce enough overall, that there is plenty to watch or enjoy no matter your taste.
I recently returned from Eastern Europe- former communist block countries. I was amazed at how modern and functional the cities and infrastructure were. The people were for the most part fit and travel within cities fast, cheap and easy (a legacy of communism-it got people to work quickly when few had cars.) Most Americans would be staggered at the contrast I believe, but they never get to see it. Media keeps up the outdated idea of "American Exceptionslism."
It was clear to me that these young economies, struggling in the wake of multiple problems (Euro, immigration, climate change, etc.) are in the process of improving the lives of their citizens while we are not. Homeless, so prevalent in my visits to American cities, was not seen. ( I walked around extensively in Prague, Budapest, Krockow and others)
We Americans are about to be lapped in the race for quality lifestyle by cultures that we are unaware are even in the competition. The blinders of "American Exceptinalism" need to come off.
It was clear to me that these young economies, struggling in the wake of multiple problems (Euro, immigration, climate change, etc.) are in the process of improving the lives of their citizens while we are not. Homeless, so prevalent in my visits to American cities, was not seen. ( I walked around extensively in Prague, Budapest, Krockow and others)
We Americans are about to be lapped in the race for quality lifestyle by cultures that we are unaware are even in the competition. The blinders of "American Exceptinalism" need to come off.
16
A perceptive column, as usual, from Mr. Cohen. His observations tend to reinforce the conclusion that Americans identify with what Isaiah Berlin labeled the negative concept of freedom. In this version of liberty, the individual enjoys the formal right to live his life as he pleases, without external restraints, but also absent any guarantee that he can translate his wishes into reality. The Europeans tend to prefer the positive approach to freedom, according to which the government uses its power to ensure the realization of certain rights (to health care, for example), but at the expense of curtailing the range of individual liberty (through taxes and regulations). The American approach, as Cohen suggests, depends on a confidence that abundant resources and individual initiative will achieve the goals permitted by our commitment to negative freedom. The pessimism that permeates public opinion these days underscores the erosion of that confidence. The question remains whether we as a people can transcend our anti-government bias (as we did in the Great Depression) and achieve enough unity to tackle the problems that individual initiative cannot solve.
5
Roger Cohen provides the essential impediment to American progress: "The French see the state as a noble idea and embodiment of citizens’ rights. Americans tend to see the state as a predator on those rights. The French ennoble the dutiful public servant. Americans ennoble the disruptive entrepreneur." The primary American flaw is a failure to recognize that our rights are a consequence of collective agreement, of government. Without government, we have no rights. We have been deceived by those who exploit us and rob us of our rights.
It is evident who wants to suppress the right to vote. It is evident who wants to silence our right to speak by equating money with speech. It is evident who wants to impose religious beliefs of some on all. It is evident who wants to evade the requirement of "A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free State".
Those same persons who discourage our faith in government, who are eager to control government. Our education has been skewed by crazy notions of individuals securing rights and government suppressing rights. This is crazy, stupid, and dishonest and it is also the agenda of conservative Republicans.
Americans are appalled at the "high taxes" paid in European countries because American arithmetic skills are so poor. Higher taxes are cheaper than our healthcare, education, childcare costs. How much cheaper things can be if we purchase them as a group, as government. Government: the ultimate "big box" store.
It is evident who wants to suppress the right to vote. It is evident who wants to silence our right to speak by equating money with speech. It is evident who wants to impose religious beliefs of some on all. It is evident who wants to evade the requirement of "A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free State".
Those same persons who discourage our faith in government, who are eager to control government. Our education has been skewed by crazy notions of individuals securing rights and government suppressing rights. This is crazy, stupid, and dishonest and it is also the agenda of conservative Republicans.
Americans are appalled at the "high taxes" paid in European countries because American arithmetic skills are so poor. Higher taxes are cheaper than our healthcare, education, childcare costs. How much cheaper things can be if we purchase them as a group, as government. Government: the ultimate "big box" store.
8
This individualistic attitude also applies to gun laws but not abortions where one is wide open and welcome and the other is shunned as dirty. This is interesting to me in that one is male oriented ad one female. We have forgotten that the individual is not entitled more than the group that it is not okay to blow people away at a movie theater just because one doesn't like the movie or hates others because they are different. We talk the good Christian talk but we walk the walk of the lone wolf out or the hunt.
5
Why are we assuming that "freedom to pursue goals" and "state guarantees that nobody is in need" are mutually exclusive?
Personally, I would feel more fee to pursue my goals if the US guaranteed health care and education.
Personally, I would feel more fee to pursue my goals if the US guaranteed health care and education.
8
As an aspiring American searching for the American dream, I bought my first Porsche at 30 in San Francisco. It wasn't powerful enough so I bought a bigger one, a 911. Still unsatisfied, I bought an Alfa Romeo GTV 6.
When this third attempt at motoring nirvana also grew boring, I finally accepted the futility of conspicuous consumption and the false value of happiness through capitalism. I had more fun reading a good book.
From that it was a logical step to reject all of America's false gods, accept the fact that the American dream had become an American nightmare, and move to a country where people still saw value in simple decency to others instead of how big your house was.
It's been 12 years now in my new life and I can't imagine returning, as Roger has, to a less satisfying life.
When this third attempt at motoring nirvana also grew boring, I finally accepted the futility of conspicuous consumption and the false value of happiness through capitalism. I had more fun reading a good book.
From that it was a logical step to reject all of America's false gods, accept the fact that the American dream had become an American nightmare, and move to a country where people still saw value in simple decency to others instead of how big your house was.
It's been 12 years now in my new life and I can't imagine returning, as Roger has, to a less satisfying life.
10
The problem is that the American individualism that you describe leaves Americans open to being herded, just like livestock. Over-consumption, in any form, represent enormously profitable businesses for one large corporation or another. These entrenched entities, in turn, exert outsize influence on the political process through the corrosive effects of campaign funding by corporations and their wealthy beneficiaries. Fundamentally the problem isn't American individualism, it's large corporations which have insidiously colonized the American people.
424
"Fundamentally the problem isn't American individualism, it's large corporations which have insidiously colonized the American people."
I wholeheartedly agree with this. What is sold as individualism, freedom etc more and more just seems like a clever way for corporations to make everyone dependent on them. What choice do poor schoolchildren of America have, other than to become obese? Have you seen the processed junk they are being served for lunch? Republican politicians trying to get pizza categorized as "vegetable". Complete deregulation paves the way for destructive business models, such as the disastrous American school lunch, or the tuition/student loan misery. It is a way for corporations to make people dependent, indebted. More obesity means bigger markets for new expensive drugs. This is not freedom.
I wholeheartedly agree with this. What is sold as individualism, freedom etc more and more just seems like a clever way for corporations to make everyone dependent on them. What choice do poor schoolchildren of America have, other than to become obese? Have you seen the processed junk they are being served for lunch? Republican politicians trying to get pizza categorized as "vegetable". Complete deregulation paves the way for destructive business models, such as the disastrous American school lunch, or the tuition/student loan misery. It is a way for corporations to make people dependent, indebted. More obesity means bigger markets for new expensive drugs. This is not freedom.
1
Rugged individualism is a myth. Even the pioneers set off across America with the federal government's help. Shorter, safer routes along the Oregon trail were scouted by federal agents. The army protected the route and salesmen and craftsmen set up shop around the protection of forts so they could sell goods and repair wagons for the pioneers. And Americans started setting out for the west after Lewis and Clark, sent by President Jefferson, proved the move was doable. I imagine the rugged individuals today drive to their rural farms on highways built by the feds, and on smaller roads built by the states and counties. They probably have electricity because of Roosevelt's Rural Electric Co-ops. The only way we're free to be individuals is because the government made that freedom possible.
48
I see it a bit differently, in America we have allowed our government and public discourse to be shaped by those with money. They have, through elected officials pronouncements and policy conned people into believing government is bad, and "free markets" are good.
Our "leaders" have co-opted religion, which Europe pretty much ignores, giving them much more control over women's behavior, specifically sexual behavior, that can't square with your suggestions. Even Italians ignore the church on these issues.
Our disease isn't overconsumption, it's one dollar one vote.
Our "leaders" have co-opted religion, which Europe pretty much ignores, giving them much more control over women's behavior, specifically sexual behavior, that can't square with your suggestions. Even Italians ignore the church on these issues.
Our disease isn't overconsumption, it's one dollar one vote.
23
Maybe I should pay more attention, but I can't say what exactly Roger Cohen stands for, other than bland, inaccurate generalizations.
"Americans, in their majority, don’t want to increase taxes on fossil fuels or tax sugar-sweetened drinks..." BECAUSE they are told that taxes are bad things. The idea that the majority of Americans have any kind of intelligent grasp of the world, the environment, or of realpolitik is utterly risible.
Americans, in their majority, are led by the noses. Look, tonight we have a "debate" outsourced to the most partisan and bigoted propaganda agency since the Goebels, and most Americans will accept that it is an actual debate, whereas it is a gladiatorial contest among speechwriters and handlers. On top of which, the "moderators" of the spectacle are now being positioned as the stars of the show.
"Americans, in their majority, don’t want to increase taxes on fossil fuels or tax sugar-sweetened drinks..." BECAUSE they are told that taxes are bad things. The idea that the majority of Americans have any kind of intelligent grasp of the world, the environment, or of realpolitik is utterly risible.
Americans, in their majority, are led by the noses. Look, tonight we have a "debate" outsourced to the most partisan and bigoted propaganda agency since the Goebels, and most Americans will accept that it is an actual debate, whereas it is a gladiatorial contest among speechwriters and handlers. On top of which, the "moderators" of the spectacle are now being positioned as the stars of the show.
10
No mention here of the cynicism of Europeans with respect to the massive influx of marginalized immigrants, or worse, regarding those who die trying to reach Europe. Sadly, Mr. Cohen's version of Europe is sanitized beyond recognition into a big, happy Switzerland of social and psychological well-being and good political intentions. It's sad to be obese in the U.S., but it may be preferable to a life of enforced idleness and poverty in the suburbs of Paris or in the Roma encampments. There's a good deal of "social solidarity" in Europe if you're in the right class; the French have a "noble idea" of the state, but's just that: an idea. In the slums just outside Paris, the reality is "sauve qui peut."
5
We are victims of our own success--or excess, perhaps. One contributor you didn't mention is the Evangelical Christian belief that, "God made Man to have dominion over all the Earth"--thus justifying the rampant consumption of resources. This isn't just a fringe phenomenon, either. According to a 2010 Pew Research Center survey, nearly half of U.S. Christians believe that Christ will "definitely" (27 percent) or "probably" (20 percent) return to Earth in or before the year 2050 (source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/04/01/christ-second-coming-survey_n_2....
Their attitude is that if the Second Coming is going to happen soon anyway, then why conserve anything? When squared with the whole notion of "personal responsibility" the paradox is twofold. First, it's a total, utter abdication of any personal responsibility to simply assert, "It's God's will." Yeah, well that's what slave owners said, too. Second, Christians throughout the ages have believed the same thing about the Second Coming (or End of the World-type fanatics) and we're still waiting. How does such an arrogant attitude as believing it'll happen during THEIR lifetime square with personal responsibility? Answer: It doesn't.
Their attitude is that if the Second Coming is going to happen soon anyway, then why conserve anything? When squared with the whole notion of "personal responsibility" the paradox is twofold. First, it's a total, utter abdication of any personal responsibility to simply assert, "It's God's will." Yeah, well that's what slave owners said, too. Second, Christians throughout the ages have believed the same thing about the Second Coming (or End of the World-type fanatics) and we're still waiting. How does such an arrogant attitude as believing it'll happen during THEIR lifetime square with personal responsibility? Answer: It doesn't.
10
The world is a big place. Millions wish they could enjoy the individual freedoms offered in the US that allow one to succeed or fail! If the authors wants another system he can immigrate to one of those nations he admires! I am sure there are many who would happily take his place!
3
While I agree with the overall generality of this article, if you question Americans more closely about particilar policies of progressive European countries, on health care, job security, retirement security, and wealth and income disparity, Americans would seem more progressive in fact. But in broad terms they belief and spout the individual freedom rhetoric they've been fed for years.
2
"Americans, in their majority, don’t want to increase taxes on fossil fuels or tax sugar-sweetened drinks because they see such measures as a regressive encroachment on individual freedoms." I don't agree, I think It is because the sugar, corn, and energy industries are extremely effective in lobbying and shaping public perception -- and have incredible resources (i.e., money) to do so. Michelle Obama suggests that kids should try to grow and eat their own vegetables -- just as a hobby -- and she is ridiculed by politicians and press from agra-business supported states.
24
That is not why we hate Michelle Obama; we hate her because she's a sheltered, pampered rich woman who pontificates to others about what we should eat -- or serve our children in school -- while HER kids go to a posh private school and get served gourmet treats.
Bernie Sanders' insurgent campaign based on his "enough is enough" mantra might be an indication that the electorate is beginning to shift from its perspective in 2011. Maybe the voters are seeing how unregulated capitalism has resulted in gross economic inequality, how free trade and technological advances have hollowed out the middle class, and how our country has a "crumbling infrastructure... a paucity of public spaces… conspicuous waste… dirty cities and… acute poverty". Maybe the voters are willing to consider taxing those at the VERY top of the pyramid to ensure "state guarantees" for those who have lost jobs to oversea factories and robotic technology. Contrary to what some commentators and pundits believe, it is hard for me to imagine that the kinds of taxes Mr. Sanders is advocating would do anything to limit "...the volume and vital clamor of American life, the challenging interaction, the bracing intermingling of Americans of all stripes, the strident individualism" that defines our country. In the coming months we'll see if enough IS enough.
6
Excellent, thoughtful editorial. I can write about this topic all day, but will mention one thought- the power of 'M".
Meritocracy is the great American myth. It's shoved down our throats in many ways. When you consider the financial and social impact of professional sports: football, basketball, etc. Then one can understand my conjecture.
When someone, "makes it" in pro sports, then from bucks to social standing, they make it big! But, the rest of us eat snacks and watch the "Big Guys" on bigger and bigger screens. At earlier and earlier ages we start our children's participation in organized sports- may the competition begin.
Yes, they have sports in Europe and elsewhere, but.........
Unfortunately in America, real meritocracy only goes so far. The country is also a slimocracy and a kleptocracy. People cheat. The all or nothing aspects of 'M', as shoved down our throats via the big screen, make it worse.
Meritocracy is the great American myth. It's shoved down our throats in many ways. When you consider the financial and social impact of professional sports: football, basketball, etc. Then one can understand my conjecture.
When someone, "makes it" in pro sports, then from bucks to social standing, they make it big! But, the rest of us eat snacks and watch the "Big Guys" on bigger and bigger screens. At earlier and earlier ages we start our children's participation in organized sports- may the competition begin.
Yes, they have sports in Europe and elsewhere, but.........
Unfortunately in America, real meritocracy only goes so far. The country is also a slimocracy and a kleptocracy. People cheat. The all or nothing aspects of 'M', as shoved down our throats via the big screen, make it worse.
8
Thanks for writing a concise article about America, we are an extremely selfish and fearful nation.
8
Oh, and, having traveled extensively in Europe, I disagree that America is somehow "more alive." Loud, yes.
28
Even relatively innocent items like suburban lawns are not the lawns of old, with mixed grasses, dandelions and clover, but are chemical induced poisoned killing fields which are prone to toxic runoff (both fertilizers and insecticides). Europe has smaller lawns, tidy postage stamps if they exist at all - or large rural affairs sitting amidst farmland.
Yet we continue to imagine ours as the best of all places.
Yet we continue to imagine ours as the best of all places.
13
Predatory Capitalism, and the Big Business moguls who rule, have persuaded the masses that what's good for Business is good for the country. They have done this through their Republican lackeys in Congress and seem to be doing a great job fooling most of the people all of the time.
45
I think the lack of public spaces is the biggest problem. Private ownership of almost all space is nearly impossible to reverse forever. The other issues can (likely won't) can change over a generation.
4
But has anyone analyzed why majority of Americans believe counter to their own economic interests? Simple answer is that they have been brain washed by a powerful rich minority. They know exactly how to manipulate their opinions. Remember the simple phrases like - "death panels", "death taxes", "jack-booted government enforcers" and then fear mongering like- "take away your bibles and guns", and so on - that doesn't leave much room for rational discussions!
53
After a two-week cycling holiday through Germany and Austria, I returned home to re-discover all of the inadequacies in our public services compared to those in Western Europe, including roads with potholes the size of Luxembourg and garbage everywhere. We are living with a Third World environment in the richest country in the world -- and we can't house the homeless or feed the poor.
49
Re: "-- and we can't house the homeless or feed the poor."
More accurate ---we won't house the homeless or feed the poor!
More accurate ---we won't house the homeless or feed the poor!
1
Richard, not "can't" -- won't.
2
Having lived in Europe for 12 years before returning to then US, these comparisons ring true but a little incomplete. For example the Germans, as rule oriented as they are have no speed limits on the autoban. It works because of unwritten rules which are simple if someone is coming up at 110 mph and you are going 90 they will blink their lights and you will move over and let them by people do it and it works. This ability to cooperate with the other is lacking in the US perhaps because the other can be very different than me. Thus a culturally diverse society has a harder time cooperating but has a richer variety of experiences. Our problem is finding the right balance.
20
I agree Fritz. Life in Northern California was for much of my life, idyllic. Beautiful of course, lots of open space, great weather. And wonderful institutions like schools and museums and parks, cherished by all. Looking back I see that we were pretty homogeneous. Now we have a latino majority--- who have not assimilated nearly to the level they are capable of; and we are recently stuffed full of Indians and Chinese immigrants who are transient in many cases, and even if they are here to stay, do not have the all for one attitudes that we Californians once had. And by now, the team spirit has eroded so badly that the new people do not even see this as a role model of what could still be. And so we flounder, and shove and wear sunglasses.
1
Very insightful.
IMO, there is an element that Mr. Cohen missed. We, as a nation was blessed with great natural resources, a brilliant Constitution, an individualistic approach to solving problems, two oceans isolating us from the brutal upheavals of the Twentieth Century and an abhorrence of socialism, which stood us well for a while; however, the human frailty of greed has gripped us because our institutions did not factor in a safety net. The result is an increasing cutthroat, inhumane system where people grasp at money because, in the US, it's the only means of surviving.
We stuff ourselves with food, worship the car to the point of polluting our air and choking both ourselves and our cities and consume emotionally for the illusion of well being. We are in denial because we naively believe American know-how will solve our problems with pills and quick fixes. This country will eventually collapse because of its excesses. We'll deregulate ourselves to death.
We stuff ourselves with food, worship the car to the point of polluting our air and choking both ourselves and our cities and consume emotionally for the illusion of well being. We are in denial because we naively believe American know-how will solve our problems with pills and quick fixes. This country will eventually collapse because of its excesses. We'll deregulate ourselves to death.
586
In other words, we are a suicidal culture. No sane, healthy person would poison the very thing that keeps him/her alive: the earth and its inhabitants.
1
Fully agree with Eddie.
“The proper function of a government is to make it easy for the people to do good, and difficult for them to do evil.”
― Daniel Webster
“I apprehend no danger to our country from a foreign foe. Our destruction, should it come at all, will be from another quarter. From the inattention of the people to the concerns of their government, from their carelessness and negligence...." -Daniel Webster
“The proper function of a government is to make it easy for the people to do good, and difficult for them to do evil.”
― Daniel Webster
“I apprehend no danger to our country from a foreign foe. Our destruction, should it come at all, will be from another quarter. From the inattention of the people to the concerns of their government, from their carelessness and negligence...." -Daniel Webster
Socialism: a system whereby government collects resources from the all in order to provide services to the all (might I add in a more efficient manner than a capitalistic system).
An excellent example of socialism as practiced in these United State of America since before our Constitution would be the United States military.
Questions?
An excellent example of socialism as practiced in these United State of America since before our Constitution would be the United States military.
Questions?
Sadly Mr. Cohen, I agree with you. As an American living in Argentina and Uruguay I see the "American Way" through a different lens. Tellingly, on a recent vacation trip to the U.S. with my Argentine wife and her grown son, the son's comment on what he saw was "everyone is either shopping or eating".
We did see though, some of what is so admirable in the U.S....an openness, an atmosphere of innovation, and a societal belief in problem solving. My not so original take on this seeming disparity of the popular mindset and physical reality is that the disconnect between the monied, lobbying/governing class and the rest of society is the overwhelming problem.
Yes, Americans are overly individualistic and myopic regarding their "liberties", but in the past they have been able to come together to do great things. We may be beyond the point where that can happen again.
We did see though, some of what is so admirable in the U.S....an openness, an atmosphere of innovation, and a societal belief in problem solving. My not so original take on this seeming disparity of the popular mindset and physical reality is that the disconnect between the monied, lobbying/governing class and the rest of society is the overwhelming problem.
Yes, Americans are overly individualistic and myopic regarding their "liberties", but in the past they have been able to come together to do great things. We may be beyond the point where that can happen again.
346
Now I've seen it all. Someone living in Argentina (Argentina!!) sitting back in snarky criticism of corruption in America.
Here's a pointer. if you want to see a disconnect between the "monied lobbying/governing class and the rest of society" no need to fly to the USA.
Walk downstairs, step out onto Avenida 25 de Mayo, and soak it in. Argentines invented and perfected the concept.
And yes, I've lived in Argentina as well.
Here's a pointer. if you want to see a disconnect between the "monied lobbying/governing class and the rest of society" no need to fly to the USA.
Walk downstairs, step out onto Avenida 25 de Mayo, and soak it in. Argentines invented and perfected the concept.
And yes, I've lived in Argentina as well.
2
Argentina is a country with great resources that, generation after generation, just can't ever seem to get it together. Why is that?
2
Thank you, Tagger, for your thoughtful comment. My staunch friend in life is from Uruguay, her family fled from Germany during the war, and she is a tour operator who knows far more about America and its people than this New Yorker. Will send her Roger Cohen's latest essay, while I await her return home to the City from sunny California. She will like what he has to say, and here I am fretting over the increasing lack of water resources to be found in our Country.
I can't help thinking of the old Tom Lehrer song (about the bomb, but it translates to our current situation):
We will all go together when we go
Every Hottentotten every Eskimo
Fact is, if we don't make a shift to acknowledging we are all in this together, every member of the human family, we are guaranteeing mutual assured destruction. Not by ISIS or nuclear war, but by exploiting and poisoning our planet. Admiring sociopathy will have a long (not sudden) dirty endgame.
So, please, get a heart and stop with the hating and exclusion.
We will all go together when we go
Every Hottentotten every Eskimo
Fact is, if we don't make a shift to acknowledging we are all in this together, every member of the human family, we are guaranteeing mutual assured destruction. Not by ISIS or nuclear war, but by exploiting and poisoning our planet. Admiring sociopathy will have a long (not sudden) dirty endgame.
So, please, get a heart and stop with the hating and exclusion.
42
As someone who lived in Europe for over 2 decades in Europe:
US: Crumbling infrastructure, paucity of public spaces, conspicuous waste dirty cities, striking poverty and rude police. True.
Last Fall, after a long absence I returned to Europe for a month long visit. It was even more orderly and well regulated, with clean cities and a lovely country side dotted with neat. well kept villages. Trains ran on time and whisked me at 120 mph + from city to city . The police helpful and courteous.
But compared to the vitality in the US, after 3 weeks boredom crept in. Too well regulated, too orderly, to be exciting.
So I prefer living in the US, warts and all.
A country, most of all, where people can sort themselves out. Liberals can and do move to Oregon, gun lovers to Texas.
US: Crumbling infrastructure, paucity of public spaces, conspicuous waste dirty cities, striking poverty and rude police. True.
Last Fall, after a long absence I returned to Europe for a month long visit. It was even more orderly and well regulated, with clean cities and a lovely country side dotted with neat. well kept villages. Trains ran on time and whisked me at 120 mph + from city to city . The police helpful and courteous.
But compared to the vitality in the US, after 3 weeks boredom crept in. Too well regulated, too orderly, to be exciting.
So I prefer living in the US, warts and all.
A country, most of all, where people can sort themselves out. Liberals can and do move to Oregon, gun lovers to Texas.
20
Your last 2 sentences concisely express the issue for Americans. Sure, we have the freedom to move about within the country in order to find our comfort zone enclave (talk about boring orderliness and conformity!).
But we also are citizens of a country. That means we have shared benefits ("...the Blessings of Liberty) and also shared responsibilities. And that means we have to pull together as one team to confront national and international issues. Increasingly, we are unable to do that. We'd rather stick our collective heads in the sand to ignore issues rather than to deal with them.
But we also are citizens of a country. That means we have shared benefits ("...the Blessings of Liberty) and also shared responsibilities. And that means we have to pull together as one team to confront national and international issues. Increasingly, we are unable to do that. We'd rather stick our collective heads in the sand to ignore issues rather than to deal with them.
3
Some of us prefer a well ordered life to chaos and destruction.
4
The wear and tear from the friction of "free range" excess will inevitably break the illusion of individualism.
3
Brilliant. Percipient.
19
As depressing as American obesity may be, this phenomenon seems small beer compared to the easy access to guns and the consequent daily shootings that distinguish American "individualism" from the European emphasis on societal needs.
256
Yes, we are drowning in shootings. Did you read about the 11 year old boy who shot a 3 year old girl in Detroit? Can we really call ourselves a "civilized society"?
3
My wife and I just spent 16 days in Scotland. It was pleasant to not be bombarded during the first ten minutes of the 11:00 PM news every night with multiple stories about shootings. We stayed near Dunblane which had a horrible mass shooting similar to Sandy Hook. That happened almost 20 years ago. It seems like we have mini-Dunblanes every few months in the USA.
2
it is painful to read the pithy observations herein. I am an American that is spooked by our consumption. I feel confident that were excessive eating and gas guzzling subjected to further 'psychological drilling', their 'sexual' underpinnings would be revealed. 'desire' does not want to be satisfied, it wants to be perpetrated.
6
Which is why Bernie Sanders is unelectable. Americans don't make sacrifices for the common good. And the GOP base is so tied up in hatred and greed, it doesn't even vote for its own good.
252
Americans do make sacrifices for the common good, but only after they've tried every other self serving alternative.......
.......I know I heard that somewhere.........
.......I know I heard that somewhere.........
3
Freedom's just another word for nothing left to lose.
Janis Joplin
Janis Joplin
363
Don't forget that Kris Kristofferson wrote the song that contains those words.
1
Actually, Kris Kristofferson
Sorry, but the song was written by Kris Kristofferson. Janis didn't have the chops to write a song like this one, but she did have the connections to have it played nonstop on pop radio. On the other hand, Morrison and Hendrix did write their best songs. The three will long be associated with one another due to their untimely deaths.
I think this is correct. But during a hot August outside of Venice a few years ago, wife and I really missed air conditioning and a clothes dryer (the air-dried towels were rough.) So, we missed our cheap energy in the U.S.
Forty years ago, when I was in college, a friend traded his 1970 guzzler for a new '72 Toyota Corolla, with four cyl engine and four speed manual, citing the gas mileage. We have had more energy efficient choices for at least that long, but trucks are the best selling vehicles.
So, yes we are persistent in our choices of excess and we feel entitled. It's not unpatriotic to face up to the consequences of our radical individualism.
Forty years ago, when I was in college, a friend traded his 1970 guzzler for a new '72 Toyota Corolla, with four cyl engine and four speed manual, citing the gas mileage. We have had more energy efficient choices for at least that long, but trucks are the best selling vehicles.
So, yes we are persistent in our choices of excess and we feel entitled. It's not unpatriotic to face up to the consequences of our radical individualism.
21
There is no reason that trucks can't be lighter and more fuel efficient. Have faith.
2
Missing cheap energy is part of the problem. In Europe many (including my family) people choose to forego things that they could afford, would provide some extra comfort on some days for axample AC in a private home because we believe it is unnecessary and bad for the climate.
1
Paarlberg's points ring true, even when comparing us (the US) to our northern neighbor, Canada. I lived and worked in Scandinavia for 10 years and return there frequently. In the US, we appear unwilling to have any of our "freedoms" constrained. We seem to have converted the notion of freedom into license to do whatever we want, regardless of the consequences and the ultimate costs.
73
...."are hardwired to the notion of individual self-reliance."
I can think of no one less self-reliant than Americans who depend on processed food for nutrition, mechanical devices for the most minimal of efforts (leaf-blowers? come on!) and drugs and surgery, rather than self-discipline and physical effort, to relieve the consequences of their idleness.
This extends to a mental laziness whereunder any initiative to alter behavior is dismissed as "Nanny State" meddling.
It's a curious combination of cynicism toward facts (climate change, or one's own ill-health) that might disturb the mind-set, and gullibility to reassurances from those with a clear interest in promoting unbridled consumption and squandering of resources. And no accident that push-button devices have replaced books, newspapers and thoughtful exchange of ideas as sources of information and decision-making.
I can think of no one less self-reliant than Americans who depend on processed food for nutrition, mechanical devices for the most minimal of efforts (leaf-blowers? come on!) and drugs and surgery, rather than self-discipline and physical effort, to relieve the consequences of their idleness.
This extends to a mental laziness whereunder any initiative to alter behavior is dismissed as "Nanny State" meddling.
It's a curious combination of cynicism toward facts (climate change, or one's own ill-health) that might disturb the mind-set, and gullibility to reassurances from those with a clear interest in promoting unbridled consumption and squandering of resources. And no accident that push-button devices have replaced books, newspapers and thoughtful exchange of ideas as sources of information and decision-making.
1008
Good point! Taking the path of least resistance is not particularly exceptional, particularly when such paths are readily available for the picking. There's a pretty solid argument that "our exceptionalists" are not creating them, but simply using them up!
3
Very insightful take. Thank you!
1
You cite some very true problems and issues in America, and I agree with you that something must be done.
Where we disagree, however, is the European notion that government - meaning not just the politicians who we can change if we aren't just too lazy to do it (as in begging for term limits and going right out and reelecting the same people on party line votes) - but far more worrisome is the unelected and utterly unaccountable bureaucracy which is rising here as well. I get tired of reading how these "betters", these experts on everything - for that is how they see themselves - know how you and I should live our lives. If only Washington could issue more regulations on Topic X then we would all be slim, glide about on smooth roads, have our cares removed. Sorry, I'm just not buying it, especially when history has shown us how often these experts are wrong.
Where we disagree, however, is the European notion that government - meaning not just the politicians who we can change if we aren't just too lazy to do it (as in begging for term limits and going right out and reelecting the same people on party line votes) - but far more worrisome is the unelected and utterly unaccountable bureaucracy which is rising here as well. I get tired of reading how these "betters", these experts on everything - for that is how they see themselves - know how you and I should live our lives. If only Washington could issue more regulations on Topic X then we would all be slim, glide about on smooth roads, have our cares removed. Sorry, I'm just not buying it, especially when history has shown us how often these experts are wrong.
1
America is all about excess. Look at the leader in tonight's Republican debate. Trump symbolizes the whole thing -- it's all about him and his gigantic appetite, selfishness, ego and swagger. I keep thinking of the W.B. Yeats poem, "The Second Coming"-- "the best lack all conviction while the worst are full of passionate intensity." America is ugly and getting uglier. My only hope is that a new generation of mindful people can influence change, at least on the margins.
274
There is an argument that a focus on self and wealth accumulation requires an equal and opposite defocus on both reality and empathy.
Trump may be the ultimate proof, but his running mates fill in the full spectrum the the unnatural sublimation of reality and empathy.
Trump may be the ultimate proof, but his running mates fill in the full spectrum the the unnatural sublimation of reality and empathy.
4
Nice turn of phrase. I share your sentiments completely.
2
Mr. Cohen recently commented that Europeans are doing little more than burnishing their cities, and I have thought ever since, what better? Setting aside the oversimplification of the discussion, what higher goal is there for a society than to make its common home more liveable and beautiful?
It was obvious to me as a freshman in college, decades ago, that American sprawl was destructive to individuals and families. I could never have imagined, though, that the waste and destruction would accelerate. Much of our vaunted economic engine is engaged in building and manufacturing garbage that makes us unhappy and unhealthy.
It was obvious to me as a freshman in college, decades ago, that American sprawl was destructive to individuals and families. I could never have imagined, though, that the waste and destruction would accelerate. Much of our vaunted economic engine is engaged in building and manufacturing garbage that makes us unhappy and unhealthy.
90
It's hard to rally a counter argument. Making blobs of often unnecessary stuff and dropping it willy-nilly across the face of civilization does seem to be a more of a symptom of excess than a badge of "exceptionalism".
3
Cohen brings a so much needed larger perspective to all issues he covers. His good writing is the icing on the bitter pill
38
The comparison between freedom and state guarantees was tilted toward the latter because modern-day Europe was chosen for the comparison. The question would feel different if Mr. Cohen had chosen Hitler's Germany, Stalin's Russia or Mao's China.
The real question is not either/or. It is best to balance freedom and government regulation. There is no sensible reason to have the Second Amendment today; it should be repealed. The United States should not waste so much energy (mostly oil), blood and treasure fighting stupid wars (Vietnam and Iraq come to mind). We should strive for a more equal society. A reduction in our hyper-competition would probably result in more of us eating together at the dinner table and less obesity. We should have higher tariffs to balance our trade; this, too, would reduce our job anxieties and result in less waste of food and oil. Finally, higher carbon taxes balanced by more programs to help those who are not rich, would lead to a smaller carbon footprint.
The real question is not either/or. It is best to balance freedom and government regulation. There is no sensible reason to have the Second Amendment today; it should be repealed. The United States should not waste so much energy (mostly oil), blood and treasure fighting stupid wars (Vietnam and Iraq come to mind). We should strive for a more equal society. A reduction in our hyper-competition would probably result in more of us eating together at the dinner table and less obesity. We should have higher tariffs to balance our trade; this, too, would reduce our job anxieties and result in less waste of food and oil. Finally, higher carbon taxes balanced by more programs to help those who are not rich, would lead to a smaller carbon footprint.
46
but none of what you suggest should happen will happen, because there is no will, no cohesion, no leadership.
2
Careful now, sanity will release the ire of the gorgons of excess.
5
If the Second Amendment is not safe -- neither is the First. Or any of the others.
Or are you suggesting repealing the entire Constitution?
Or are you suggesting repealing the entire Constitution?
2
Americans act like everything they might have accomplished is because of their past actions, and no one else's. In the 2012 Presidential Cycle, President Barack Obama spoke, in a town hall setting, to a bunch of business owners. He pointed-out that hard work had helped them achieve success; however, there is always someone who gave them a leg-up: a teacher, a parent, perhaps a mentor, maybe they inherited a family business, etc.
Mitt Romney, the GOP and, of course, FOX "News' castigated him for it. But, Steve Jobs didn't invent the Internet, "Mitt" Romney's parents sent him to boarding school and his father gave him access to many movers and shakers, and Donald Trump inherited his father's real estate empire.
It seems that many in America forget where they came from, act like they accomplished everything on their own, and don't wish to share anything at all. Self-aggrandizement seems to be king on our side of The Pond.
In Europe, where education, health care, adequate nutrition are mostly funded by the state and/or the Social Safety Net, people tend to acknowledge that somewhere in Society, they were, indeed, given a boost. Also, that we were all in this lifetime experience together.
http://thetruthoncommonsense.com
Mitt Romney, the GOP and, of course, FOX "News' castigated him for it. But, Steve Jobs didn't invent the Internet, "Mitt" Romney's parents sent him to boarding school and his father gave him access to many movers and shakers, and Donald Trump inherited his father's real estate empire.
It seems that many in America forget where they came from, act like they accomplished everything on their own, and don't wish to share anything at all. Self-aggrandizement seems to be king on our side of The Pond.
In Europe, where education, health care, adequate nutrition are mostly funded by the state and/or the Social Safety Net, people tend to acknowledge that somewhere in Society, they were, indeed, given a boost. Also, that we were all in this lifetime experience together.
http://thetruthoncommonsense.com
223
Self service is it's own reward! That's why it's practitioners are so automatically exceptional!
When we speak of what Americans or any other nationality are like, I hope we are aware that there is always a large percentage of people that do not fit that characterization. The insistence on individualism is both a myth and a reality. I am absolutely sure that among the 58% that chose freedom over government intervention, there is a good percentage that are enjoying Social Security, Medicare, 40 hour week, unemployment compensation, work safety regulations and other state interventions. But, myths are a necessary ingredient of our lives and we should enjoy them. They make us bigger and worthier than we really are.
65
They (attitudes about individualism) don't make us anything but ignorant to our own actual needs and manifestly enable at least one political party to threaten the common welfare for narrow gain ...
4
Excellent comment @Frank!
Should have been a NYT Pick.
Should have been a NYT Pick.
2
Cmon now! Everybody knows that 'we, the exceptional' deserve our Social Security and Medicare, and all of those "other" frauds and cheats don't.
I mean, it's like giving the vote to all of those "fraudulent people" who don't vote for us exceptionals. Why would do that? "Our" States rights clearly give us the right to 'group together geographically' and purge the unexceptional from our reality. AND, we're going to keep those fraudulent voters out even if we have to 'rig the vote' to do it .........(as an aside ALL recent incidents of voter fraud and vote manipulation have been perpetrated by the right wing ideological exceptionalists).
Our biggest dilemma is in the fact that exceptionalism is a 'zero sum game' which requires the repeated purging of unexceptionals until only one remains...........but since that's me, I'm not worried.
I mean, it's like giving the vote to all of those "fraudulent people" who don't vote for us exceptionals. Why would do that? "Our" States rights clearly give us the right to 'group together geographically' and purge the unexceptional from our reality. AND, we're going to keep those fraudulent voters out even if we have to 'rig the vote' to do it .........(as an aside ALL recent incidents of voter fraud and vote manipulation have been perpetrated by the right wing ideological exceptionalists).
Our biggest dilemma is in the fact that exceptionalism is a 'zero sum game' which requires the repeated purging of unexceptionals until only one remains...........but since that's me, I'm not worried.
3
In the not entirely distant past, Europe produced two world wars, the United States slavery and the destruction of a native people. Each is trying to recover from history's accusatory gaze. I'm not sure that either is doing terribly well. If it weren't for the current Republican Party, I might be inclined to put my bet on the U.S.
24
All we can do is to hope that science and the "information age" provide us with new ways to cope with the hate, fear, greed, jealousy, and bigotry that drives us to seek shelter from the threats of uncertainty and chaos that drive our continuously changing circumstances.
1
Mr. Cohen you are not paying attention. On the energy front we have made great strides here in the U.S.A. both in conservation and the increasing use of alternate energy sources. I believe we have already passed the tipping point. On the food front there is progress as well with increasing awareness about where foods come from and how it is made. Farm to table and local consumption is on the rise. Yes we Americans have our vices but that "churn of vitality and energy" is once again producing results that will again make us the envy of the world.
14
Slight disagreement here. With gas prices low, we're back to buying gas guzzling and huge vehicles that compound the pollution problem and use up fossil fuels that are finite. We learn nothing from past crises and continue on our blind, merry way.
Our infrastructure is third world. Go to France, Germany or almost any other
advanced nation and you see roads that are smooth and built to last, the convenience of high speed rail and good public transportation and, above all,
medical care for all.
We are changing and demographics aren't good for the guzzling, obese and narrow minded population. They are dying off and the next generation is a whole lot more conscious of their responsibility not only to future generations, but to the rest of the planet as well.
Our infrastructure is third world. Go to France, Germany or almost any other
advanced nation and you see roads that are smooth and built to last, the convenience of high speed rail and good public transportation and, above all,
medical care for all.
We are changing and demographics aren't good for the guzzling, obese and narrow minded population. They are dying off and the next generation is a whole lot more conscious of their responsibility not only to future generations, but to the rest of the planet as well.
4
Great strides, you say? Here in AZ, solar and wind, which are available in abundance, are languishing as energy altneratives. Those entrepreneurs have not been given the same space at the table as traditional energy producers and our decision makers are too deep in the pockets of the electric and gas companies and will do nothing that might threaten their bottom line. Despite nearly year round sunny days, don't look for rooftops covered with solar panels (that would be in Germany). Instead, you will regularly find constant watering and wasteful flooding of residential lawns to keep them lush and green. We are in the middle of a desert and some 10 years into a drought, while next year our neighbor California is going up in flames from lack of water. No great strides here.
10
That's the point: it's not good to be the envy of the world. We need to return to being the beacon of human values........albeit balanced with the force necessary to protect the beacon from self defined "exceptionalists" of all ilk.
3
Love the article ~~ I do, and am somewhere in between, especially as to media and culture of which you barely touch ~~ the narcissistic nature of our day to day lives moves too quickly and is unhealthy for all. However, we create as no other nation in the world creates ~~ by leaps and bounds. Is necessity the mother of invention? Is it the individualism? Could the level of entrepreneurial spirit exist in a more tempered environment? It's a good question. I could live in the peaceful hills of Italy, but would I really ~~~
9
Where there is Yin, there is Yang. The trick is to keep the proportions pure, and the symmetry balanced.
Flammable concepts like "exceptionalism" that are designed to recolor either the good or the evil do not contribute to purity or balance. These ideas just temporarily hijack a little of one to server the other.
Europeans don't have the geographical room or resource autonomy necessary to allow them to ignore the balance. As time goes on, we too will one day be bound by realities that constrain the dellusional joy of self control.
Flammable concepts like "exceptionalism" that are designed to recolor either the good or the evil do not contribute to purity or balance. These ideas just temporarily hijack a little of one to server the other.
Europeans don't have the geographical room or resource autonomy necessary to allow them to ignore the balance. As time goes on, we too will one day be bound by realities that constrain the dellusional joy of self control.
3
No other modern country is so mired in juvenile religion as America the Stupid.
305
Lighten up, Steve. It's a work in progress and we're very young still.
1
Could not agree more. When I travel to Europe, I am constantly embarrassed to present my passport, and often feel a need to issue a deep apology for something or other - but there is always something!
4
We need to lose weight, exercise more often, travel to foreign lands, invest in alternative energy and upgrade our infrastructure.
Some of the above we need to do ourselves.
The rest needs to come from our government by electing responsible adults to public office who have the best interests of the people and not the corporations in mind.
Some of the above we need to do ourselves.
The rest needs to come from our government by electing responsible adults to public office who have the best interests of the people and not the corporations in mind.
209
We need to have more vacation time if we want to travel to Europe. Since Europe and Asia are in different time zones we really need time to acclimate to our own zone when we return and that can take a few days. Given our stingy vacation time travelling to another country several time zones away is difficult. It's also expensive. Then again, maybe our income elites don't want the peons seeing how the rest of the world lives: we might demand better wages, benefits, etc.
127
Yes, indeed.
9
Precisely.
4
When I was in Europe years ago I was very impressed with the quality of their public spaces. Plazas weren't littered, streets were clean, most of the people radiated health and well being. When I walked into a supermarket the store smelled clean. Directions to monuments, palaces, and other tourist attractions were clear. Whenever I had to ask for directions the person I spoke with understood and replied in English. My politeness was rewarded with politeness unlike what we get in America: rudeness. The police were nice (and that was before I said anything so they had no idea I was American because I didn't wear typically American clothes) when I approached them.
European streets were paved. There were streetlights. Very few were broken. Train stations were clean as were the trains. The airports were an absolute treat to walk through. All this was before 9/11/2001. Since then America's infrastructure has deteriorated even more and we have become a much more stratified society with all that implies. We are creating the seeds of our own destruction when we refuse to elect officials who will act to preserve our middle and working classes, or refuse to accept the fact that most of us will not be rich and can benefit from a better social safety net. We seem to prefer to believe those who lose their jobs, go broke, or suffer misfortunes, or are unable to thrive in our individualist society as worthless until it happens to us. Then it's too late.
European streets were paved. There were streetlights. Very few were broken. Train stations were clean as were the trains. The airports were an absolute treat to walk through. All this was before 9/11/2001. Since then America's infrastructure has deteriorated even more and we have become a much more stratified society with all that implies. We are creating the seeds of our own destruction when we refuse to elect officials who will act to preserve our middle and working classes, or refuse to accept the fact that most of us will not be rich and can benefit from a better social safety net. We seem to prefer to believe those who lose their jobs, go broke, or suffer misfortunes, or are unable to thrive in our individualist society as worthless until it happens to us. Then it's too late.
732
Well, European airports are not too far off of where the TSA has put us, and litter is quite present in Europe today. I am fine with an individualist society that has more dynamism and flexibility, even if some will suffer more. Life has risks, and the greater the risk, the greater the reward.
1
Ever been to Naples? And recently as 2 years ago, you could hardly see out of the windows of the train to Pompeii because of the graffiti.
Pickpockets are rampant in most of the European train stations now.
Europe is no paradise, it's simply has different pros and cons than the US.
But I agree that we need a better social safety net (Rs would go for it if Ds would get behind ruthless consequences for defrauding the benefits) and anyone but Jeb Bush or HIllary running things.
Pickpockets are rampant in most of the European train stations now.
Europe is no paradise, it's simply has different pros and cons than the US.
But I agree that we need a better social safety net (Rs would go for it if Ds would get behind ruthless consequences for defrauding the benefits) and anyone but Jeb Bush or HIllary running things.
3
agree, you travel to Europe and the impression you get is that they pull together in the public sphere in ways that are incomprehensible to Americans ...
In Germany you can loose the right to own your house if it is in disepair ...
In Germany you can loose the right to own your house if it is in disepair ...
2
On the other hand, the US is big on volunteer self-help movements. The present movement to lose weight and eat healthy foods is coming from society itself, not from the government. The same thing is true with cutting spending, eliminating debt, and living within your means. We could get along pretty well without government laws, because most people want to do the right thing. Of course, a small minority will always be fat and lazy, but in the absence of a welfare state, that's their problem.
11
Actually, Jonathan in NYC, it is not true that "a small minority will be fat and lazy... without the welfare state, that's their problem." Even without government programs, what we do in society greatly impacts others. When we speak of obesity, we often speak of health care costs, but there are many other effects on society. Boats on the Chicago river were told a few years ago to raise the number they use to figure average passenger weight; that effects the number they can carry, which in turn changes the ticket price for all. Ditto, if theaters have to put in wider seats. Hospitals now have double wide wheelchairs and gurneys upping the room costs for everyone.
Likewise, if someone is drinking and therefore unemployed his children go hungry. A civilized society, even without a welfare state, cannot let children starve or older adults live under the viaduct. In short, life in society means 'we are all in this together.' The idea that each of us is an isolated being who can build his/her own life independent of what anyone else does is simply fantasy.
Likewise, if someone is drinking and therefore unemployed his children go hungry. A civilized society, even without a welfare state, cannot let children starve or older adults live under the viaduct. In short, life in society means 'we are all in this together.' The idea that each of us is an isolated being who can build his/her own life independent of what anyone else does is simply fantasy.
426
Sure. Let's eliminate traffic lights and stop signs.
"A small minority will be fat and lazy."
Actually, if you read the article, a majority of us are overweight, and, sadly, it's not "their problem", as increased medical costs affect us all.
We, the people, are supposed to be the government.
The problem with libertarians and conservatives is they use a health skepticism about too much government to spread an insidious concept that government itself is inherently evil to create a society where they can profit off the ignorance of the masses and reap all the gains.
"A small minority will be fat and lazy."
Actually, if you read the article, a majority of us are overweight, and, sadly, it's not "their problem", as increased medical costs affect us all.
We, the people, are supposed to be the government.
The problem with libertarians and conservatives is they use a health skepticism about too much government to spread an insidious concept that government itself is inherently evil to create a society where they can profit off the ignorance of the masses and reap all the gains.
314
"Sure. Let's eliminate traffic lights and stop signs."
Actually, I remember reading about some Scandinavian country that did try eliminating traffic lights and stop signs. Drivers because more courteous, and the number of accidents dropped.
Try it, you might like it. Of course, it does require a non-ignorant population that knows how to think and has good judgement, but that's just what you'll get if people have to figure it out themselves.
Actually, I remember reading about some Scandinavian country that did try eliminating traffic lights and stop signs. Drivers because more courteous, and the number of accidents dropped.
Try it, you might like it. Of course, it does require a non-ignorant population that knows how to think and has good judgement, but that's just what you'll get if people have to figure it out themselves.
4
Inequality rules the roost
The NRA, guns have unloosed,
Blacks are profiled and beaten
And doubtful foods eaten,
Numbers of homeless get a boost.
Our bridges and tunnels decay,
Fighting climate change we delay,
Congress of naysayers
Of progress despairs
And billionaires who seize the day.
Our energy. vitality?
We could use more mentality.
The NRA, guns have unloosed,
Blacks are profiled and beaten
And doubtful foods eaten,
Numbers of homeless get a boost.
Our bridges and tunnels decay,
Fighting climate change we delay,
Congress of naysayers
Of progress despairs
And billionaires who seize the day.
Our energy. vitality?
We could use more mentality.
155
People are more important than things --
A truer statement ne'er did ring;
But greed cloaked in religious bling
Havoc upon our great nation brings.
A truer statement ne'er did ring;
But greed cloaked in religious bling
Havoc upon our great nation brings.
2
I lived in Europe (England and Germany) for five years in the 1980's. I very much agree with these observations. While traveling about I consciously stayed away from my countrymen because they were the stereotypical "Loud, Rude Americans". It was embarrassing. In short Europeans act like adults whereas Americans act like 14 year old boys.
Nothing has changed.
Nothing has changed.
521
It's 2015 Stephen and it's still the same. If Americans accidentally encounter each other in the doctor's waiting room, they studiously ignore each other.
The whole point of being an expatriate is to leave America behind. My comments to the NYT are meant to reach out to like minded Americans and offer a path to freedom and a new life.
The whole point of being an expatriate is to leave America behind. My comments to the NYT are meant to reach out to like minded Americans and offer a path to freedom and a new life.
8
Really? Been to many football (soccer) games in Europe recently, especially with large contingents of drunken spectators (English/German et al.) who also wander the Continent to carouse in and out of stadiums? Or the various racist anti whatever chanting that often accompanies these games (and alas not just in Europe)
I have never seen such in the US.
I have never seen such in the US.
14
Funny -- I just had an interesting conversation with a Swiss diplomat the other day; she said that the Germans and Brits were considered to be much more loud and rude than Americans there. During my recent trips to Europe, there were plenty of obvious loud and rude tourists to avoid, and they were of many nationalities.
Likewise re the notion that America's virtues are intrinsic to our vices: remember Yankee ingenuity and thrift? Doing more with less? There are plenty of alternative memes at work which illustrate the decoupling of vitality/energy and overconsumption if one bothers to look for them. I'm more concerned with sloppy stereotypes, lazy overgeneralizations, and defeatist pessimism...
Likewise re the notion that America's virtues are intrinsic to our vices: remember Yankee ingenuity and thrift? Doing more with less? There are plenty of alternative memes at work which illustrate the decoupling of vitality/energy and overconsumption if one bothers to look for them. I'm more concerned with sloppy stereotypes, lazy overgeneralizations, and defeatist pessimism...
23