NationStates Jolt Archive

I admire countries for their cultural/historical, economic and military strength. The following is a list of nations that I admire (in no particular order) with a short description detailing my reasons:

USA:

The world's greatest an only superpower. America is the absolute forefront of science and technology, as well as political dominance and military power. It's education system may churn out millions of redneck drones but it's policies have certainly attracted some of the world's best and brightest to research science and develop new technologies (for both defense and civilian sectors). America's economy (despite the current recession) is still second to none. The current president may be a dickhead but it's democracy has been admired globally. With a nuclear arsenal matched only by Russia, America is surely capable of destroying this planet in its rage. Nations of the Asia Pacific region will always be grateful of America; if it was not for the two A-bombs, most of the world will be speaking Jap today.

Britain:

Whether it's science, economy, military or the conquests in her history, the United Kingdom is always a good all rounder. Home to the Industrial Revolution (and many scientific and technological adavances), the first entry into the race for colonies had been a real winner. At the peak of her colonial power, Britannia possessed an empire a hundred and fifty times the area of the British Isles; indeed the sun never set on the British Empire, or at least until her colonial decline. Despite its empire virtually dimished, Britain still wields great power in international politics.

Germany:

The birth of a united Germany with Prussia as the center in 1870 has created one of the greatest powers in human history in a comparatively short time. If Hitler had won the war (fantasized in Robert Harris' Fatherland), the Third Reich would stretch from the Azores to the Urals, from the tundras of the Arctic to the tropics of Nigeria. Europe will forever be named as Deutschland, ruled by the world's most nationalistic race. All militarists and rightists across the world admire it's culture of efficiency and the military.

In reality, Germany had lost the war, but never her strength. Since the times of the Kaiser, its rapid expansion in heavy industry would eventually outstrip that of Britain if the First World War did not happen, despite the loss of two world wars, its hardworking people managed to recover fully and quickly in areas of industry and economy as well as the military. German nationalism spread uncontrollably like wildfire under the Fuehrer, quickly establishing an anschluss with Austria, pity the two countries are now separate again.

Germany is still at the forefront of heavy industry and physics. It's military has a key role in the security of Europe since the Cold War (having to share a front with the Iron Curtain). It still develops and produces conventional weapons that are considered to be of the highest quality and its economy is the largest in Europe. Germans are still fiercely proud of their country (although Hitler is now loathed).

China:

The naturally hardworking Chinese race makes their country thrive at times of economic and political stability (such an ability was demonstrated many times in its long history). The world's oldest civlization still shines on after five millenia. Having suffered immense human tragedies in much of the last century, a recovering China has managed to emerge as a power in a matter of a few decades. Having endless human resources (whether it be a burden or a strength) and unlimited supplies of scientists, the Chinese nation, under a benevolent dictatorship has proven itself to be of relentless growth and potential. With a sprinkling of Prussianistic nationalism, China will unite fully and the dragon shall truly rise.

Israel:

For more than a thousands years, the wandering Jews of the world have never given up hope of one day reclaiming their holy land. Jewish nationalism and Zionism is truly one of the greatest human miracles, their racial survival has been driven largely by their religion and identity as well as the need to take back what was truly theirs and seek revenge on the aggressors. God's Chosen People, indeed a title only suitable for them.

Israel has managed to build up quickly since its formation. Jewish dominance of the U.S. economy meant that every candidate running for the White House was funded by Jewish bankers, making the United States its eternal protector. Armies armed by the West and brainwashed since birth by nationalism, no people in the world is more ready to fight for their racial survival than the Jews.

Israel has proven itself militarily by never being defeated by the surrounding Arabs, and being outnumbered heavily. Scientifically, the Jews have managed to lead the world in desert agriculture and laser weapons, these would be the aspects of their technology open to public knowledge. Israel, despite its size and population not being able to survive a nuclear war, has managed to possess more than two hundred atomic devices (believed to be mostly SLBMs). Indeed, the Jews are God's Chosen People.

Singapore:

Tiny but mighty, this robust city state is another miracle of the Chinese race. In its formation, Singapore barely had enough reservoirs of fresh water to sustain itself. By the seventies, Singapore's economy had taken flight and earned its place as a Second World nation (being the second in Asia, following Japan). Under the guidance of a benevolent dictatorship and the unleashing of the natural conservatism of the Chinese, strict morals and merciless punishment towards criminals are a source of envy. Militarily, it is not only capable of defending itself but also striking back painfully against the Indonesians and Malaysians (who have previously butchered Chinese people in their realms). Singapore has shown itself to be an example of development China (both PRC and ROC) should follow.

Funny how as a right winger, I admire both Hitlerist nationalism (but not his racism) and Jewish nationalism. Unity sure is strength.

I admire the US of God damn A.

So, you're a right-winger and you think Bush is a dickhead?

I'll have much shorter descriptions, since I have to go to bed :)

Japan: industrious people, rich cultural heritage, great food

Brazil/Portugal: separated from each other peacefully and with compromise, instead of a bloody war for independence, great food

Poland: people have a great happiness and zest for life even after Communist oppression, religous even after Communist oppression, great food

China(except the government): rich culture, wonderful history, great food

Italy: home of so much beautiful art, architecture, and Vatican City, great food

I admire the United States, Israel, Serbia, and Great Britain.

And also Japan and Singapore.

I admire the US of God damn A.

So, you're a right-winger and you think Bush is a dickhead?

His brand of 'conservatism' don't really fit mine. And no, I don't live in America.

I'll have much shorter descriptions, since I have to go to bed :)

Japan: industrious people, rich cultural heritage, great food

Brazil/Portugal: separated from each other peacefully and with compromise, instead of a bloody war for independence, great food

Poland: people have a great happiness and zest for life even after Communist oppression, religous even after Communist oppression, great food

China(except the government): rich culture, wonderful history, great food

Italy: home of so much beautiful art, architecture, and Vatican City, great food

Are you ruled by your stomach? There's more to countries than naked statues and pretty pictures. It's national image and capability that is most important.

I intended the food references to be a joke. Guess it didn't go over too well...

I intended the food references to be a joke. Guess it didn't go over too well...

Didn't go too well with me at least. I don't give a damn over tastes.

I admire Japan as even though getting nuclear bombed at 1945, it still became one of the most successful in Asia.

I admire France because of the eifel tour. Don't ask why.

I admire Olden Egypt. They made wonders of the world that still puzzles modern scientist.

ps. I would say I admire Singapore but its economy is getting quite bad. So I can't say I admire it....

I admire the Native American and Australian Aboriginal peoples of the world.

Why? Because they have stood proud in the face of attempted annihilation and still exist, even in a limited capacity, and cling to their ideals - even though those who conquered them wanted them to change.

To Aboriginal peoples everywhere, I salute thee.

1. Germany
2. USA
3. Japan

Italy: home of so much beautiful art, architecture, and Vatican City, great food
Technically, Vatican City is its own nation, so it doesn't really belong to Italy.

Personally, I like the Cayman Islands. Colorful, clean, a mosaic of many cultures, good diving, little crime.... What's there not to like?

I also like the Swizerland, they have good cheese.

Did you know that the holes in a wheel of Swiss cheese are one of the most random things in the universe? wild

I admire the Native American and Australian Aboriginal peoples of the world.

Why? Because they have stood proud in the face of attempted annihilation and still exist, even in a limited capacity, and cling to their ideals - even though those who conquered them wanted them to change.

To Aboriginal peoples everywhere, I salute thee.

Bravo. I second that. To all the indigenous minorities in the world, you deserve our admiration.

Andorra
and only because that's the only country I can't say anything bad about. I bet someone can tell me why I shouldn't admire Andorra either.

Andorra
and only because that's the only country I can't say anything bad about. I bet someone can tell me why I shouldn't admire Andorra either.


Andorra sucks because it has no ocean.

Andorra sucks because it has no ocean.
Oceans are overrated :D

Oceans Kick Major Posterior.

Hehe... Go Andorra, for the same reason! :D

Cuba, for steadfastedly holding on to a system unique in the Western hemisphere, which guarentees its people essential rights many lack elsewhere, and for spending more per capita on social issues than any other country in the Americas.

Northern European countries, for being both democratic and socially oriented.

Tuvalu, for being (according to the UN) the one and only country in the world never to have committed human rights' violations. :)

The Vatican, just because I love the concept of a country being just 0.44 sq km.

And, of course, there is no such thing as a country without a fascinating culture. So, all the countries in the world, really...

Tuvalu, for being (according to the UN) the one and only country in the world never to have committed human rights' violations. :)

Tuvalu, surely a fantastic place. Just watched a fantasy film where main characters dreamed about Tuvalu. (film=Tuvalu)

Tuvalu, surely a fantastic place. Just watched a fantasy film where main characters dreamed about Tuvalu. (film=Tuvalu)

Really? Interesting... I Googled it, and came up with this (http://www.filmfestivalrotterdam.com/en/film/4535.html).

Thanks for bringing it to my attention! :)

If you want the basics on the country itself, you can go here (http://www.lonelyplanet.com/mapshells/pacific/tuvalu/tuvalu.htm). Click on the map.

Really? Interesting... I Googled it, and came up with this (http://www.filmfestivalrotterdam.com/en/film/4535.html).

Thanks for bringing it to my attention! :)

If you want the basics on the country itself, you can go here (http://www.lonelyplanet.com/mapshells/pacific/tuvalu/tuvalu.htm). Click on the map.
That's the one :)
I'll check the basics. I'm now pretty interested.

I also like Nauru. Only because Nauru=Laughter in Finnish

edit: Hohoo! Tuvalu is also as old as I am. Yay Tuvalu!

USA because of it's overwhleming worldwide power and reletively high amount for freedoms. I have some issues with my country, but they're personal.

Swizerland: They've managed to stay neutral and sovergn for hundreds of years, and yet still support a large millitia that could give pretty much any nation a run for it's money in those mountains. Love the candy they make as well (I like food, so sue me :p)

Germany: a very resilient nation that would have been an excelent ally throughout the 20'th century had it not been for WW1. Realy a pitty.

Isreal: This tiny nation managed to kick the asses of all it's neighbors united against it. They also are apparently finaly on the path to peace with the palistinians. Heres to hopeing this doesn't fall through.

Britain: As stated before, great all-rounders, they conqured an exceptionaly large empire, and it lasted for a good while too. Some truely great movies as well (Snatch, Lock Stock and Two Smokeing Barrels). Bad food though.

That is so utterly amazing. Really.
I admire Italy, mainly because my ancestors came fom there and it has a rich artistic and food related history. :cool:

1. USA, for too many reasons to name, none of those reasons being George W Bush. America has some of the best food in the world as long as you stay away from the American food.
2. Japan, industrious, cool swords, and sushi is delicious.
3. Italy, for having no effective "systems" of any kind and loving life and art so much. Friggin awesome food.
4. Switzerland, for having effective systems for everything and keeping their noses out of other peoples business for over 500 years (an effective system). The chocolates and cheeses, so good .
5. United Arab Emirates, for being a beacon of rampant consumerism surrounded by a sea of Islamo-Fascism. Supposed to have some good 5-star restaurants, dunno, never been.
6. China, for going out and earning the title "the Dragon" every goddamn day. The food in China tastes nothing like the Chinese food in America, but is still damnably tasty.
7. Afghanistan, Genghis Kahn called the Afghanis, "nothing but murderers and thieves" serious contender for 'world's fiestiest people.' No idea what they eat.
8. Sealand, look it up it exists. Really. http://www.sealandgov.com/ . British food, yech.

Countries I don't admire:

1. Sweden, Norway, Denmark, etc. for proving that Socialism actually works. IhateyouIhateyouIhateyouIhateyou. Unexceptional food.
2. Saudi Arabia, we wouldn't need a goony word like Islamo-Fascism if it wasn't for these doofuses. From my experiences the Saudis are hypocritical sleazy douchebags too. Nothing against Islam, nothing against Arabs, just the Saudis. Lebanese and Egyptian food are better.
3. North Korea, scares the crap out of me. The crap, no longer in me... because it was scared out of me... by North Korea. I don't think they have food there.
4. Uzbekistan, their national airline shows pirated DVDs as the inflight movies. Grow up. I wouldn't even know what they eat, probably cabbage.
5. The People's Glorious and Lovely Democratic Republic of Congo, have you noticed they add a lie to their name each time the government changes hands? KNOW they don't have food there.
6. Germany, the Germans have the capacity to be complete tools. And I get sick of sausage fast.

EDITED: I switched Dubai to the UAE, Dubai is an individual emirate which always throws me off.

Really? Interesting... I Googled it, and came up with this (http://www.filmfestivalrotterdam.com/en/film/4535.html).

Thanks for bringing it to my attention! :)

If you want the basics on the country itself, you can go here (http://www.lonelyplanet.com/mapshells/pacific/tuvalu/tuvalu.htm). Click on the map.


Major Industries: Textiles, soap, philately, phone sex, copra.

Now that's strange...


And to you, sir: What's wrong with American food? American food is a mix of many different styles - German, Polish, Italian, British (mainly New England), French, and Dutch, just to name a few.

Saudi Arabia, we wouldn't need a goony word like Islamo-Fascism if it wasn't for these doofuses. From my experiences the Saudis are hypocritical sleazy douchebags too. Nothing against Islam, nothing against Arabs, just the Saudis. Lebanese and Egyptian food are better.I second this. Saudi Arabia is worse than the French.

And to you, sir: What's wrong with American food? American food is a mix of many different styles - German, Polish, Italian, British (mainly New England), French, and Dutch, just to name a few.I think the stuff defined as "American Food", though I'm not sure as to what that's refering.

Everything I see is classified as haveing it's orogines in another country. If he means barbeque, I pity him because he's never had good barbeque. Just remember, the further south you go, the better the barbeque is.

Brazilian barbeque blows away even Texas barbeque, which is good enough on its own.

[QUOTE=Sino]Israel:
Jewish dominance of the U.S. economy meant that every candidate running for the White House was funded by Jewish bankers, making the United States its eternal protector. QUOTE]

There are a lot of problems and inaccuracies in this whole section on Israel, but this is the most glaring one--which no one yet has mentioned. The idea that the U.S. supports Israel because of the manipulations of the Jewish bankers who allegedly control the U.S. economy is a classic anti-Semitic slur that is easily refuted.

First, it is simply factually inaccurate to say that Jews dominate the U.S. economy. Jews dominate the economy of one nation: Israel. In the United States, there are a few very wealthy Jews ... but their wealth is easily outnumbered by the wealth of very many more very wealthy people who are not Jews ... and the money of the latter is as good as that of the former.

Second, bankers IN GENERAL (i.e., Jewish or not) support the campaigns of every major candidate for the White House, Congress, etc. They are also able to manipulate political policies through their control of the stock, bond, and currency markets. And it is the vast majority of bankers IN GENERAL ... as well as the oil industry and the armaments industry ... that dictates U.S. policy toward Israel.

Third, the United States is NOT Israel's "eternal protector." The U.S. looks out for the interests of its own ruling trusts, whether these interests favor the state of Israel or not. In 1947-48, the U.S. supported the creation of the state of Israel ... mostly to go along with its British and French allies. However, the U.S. supported Egypt and Syria, against Israel, in the 1956 war, in order to protect its own shipping interests (and undermine those of its French and British allies--who were also rivals), and generally favored a weak Israel throughout the period of 1948-1963. It was only by 1963, when France had pursued alliances with Syria and Iraq at Israel's expense, and after the changing of the guard in Washington from the Kennedy to the Johnson administration, that the U.S. became consistently pro-Israel, and not until after the 1967 war when Israel established itself as the unquestioned regional power that Israel became the central U.S. ally in the Middle East.

Even then, there have been a number of points where the interests of the American and Israeli ruling classes have differed significantly. First, there is Israel's torpedoing of the navy spy ship USS Liberty in 1967, in the midst of American diplomatic (& covert intelligence) maneuvers to prevent Israel from achieving total victory in the war. Second, there was the 1982 Malvinas War, in which the U.S. supported Britain and Israel supported Argentina. Third is the incarceration of alleged Israeli spy Jonathan Pollard, which continues from 1984 to the present day. Fourth are the economic sanctions enacted against S. Africa by the U.S. in 1986, which were a severe blow to Israel's economy. Fifth, in the 1990-1991 Gulf War, the Israeli government wanted to join in the attack on Iraq (in retaliation for Iraqi missile attacks), and the U.S., wanting to maintain its coalition, refused to give Israel the "friend or foe" codes that would prevent its planes from being shot down. Sixth, the U.S. government has repeatedly sought to advance its larger regional interests through pressuring the Israeli government to apply different tactics toward the Palestinian resistance--particularly in 1977-1979 and 1989-2002, when it pushed Israel to be softer on the Palestinians, and in 2002-2004, when it pushed Israel to be more aggressive against the Palestinians.

Finally, Jewish bankers, like any other bankers, are interested in making money--and if they put compassion for other Jews ahead of making money, they won't be successful bankers for very long. Jewish bankers in the U.S. have by and large supported every twist and turn in U.S. policy toward Israel listed above. The Jewish bankers who--like most bankers with strong investments on the European continent--supported the Zionist movement in the 1930s and 1940s also pressured governments like the U.S. government to restrict Jewish immigration ... when an estimated 3 million Jewish Holocaust victims could've been saved if just the U.S. and UK had opened their borders to Jewish immigrants as late as 1942. The most famous Jewish banking family in Europe, the Rothschild family, had extensive investments in czarist Russia, the most anti-Semitic regime in modern history before the Nazis came along, and also bankrolled Mussolini and Hitler. And Jewish bankers in Israel support a regime that's given working-class Jews nothing but a focal point for anti-Semites, the constant threat of terrorist violence, and progressive deterioration of civil liberties--not to mention military aid to an Argentine regime that systematically killed 6,000 Jews, and a Chilean regime that promoted anti-Semitic propaganda (and social cover to an anti-Semitic regime in Egypt, and indirect support through its cooperation with the U.S. to anti-Semitic regimes in Saudi Arabia and Malaysia).

Personally, I like the Cayman Islands. Colorful, clean, a mosaic of many cultures, good diving, little crime.... What's there not to like?

The Cayman Is. ain't a country.

5. Dubai, for being a beacon of rampant consumerism surrounded by a sea of Islamo-Fascism. Supposed to have some good 5-star restaurants, dunno, never been.


Dubai isn't a country. It's the capital of the UAE.


8. Sealand, look it up it exists. Really. http://www.sealandgov.com/ .

Ooh, yes, how could I have forgotten Sealand! They have their own flag, and national anthem, stamps and passports and anything. They even had their own miniature little war once - though fortunately no one was killed.


I also like Nauru. Only because Nauru=Laughter in Finnish


Heh. And they manage to exist as a country without having a capital city.

Sadly, they're an ecological catastrophe, though. :(

I admire the United States, Israel, Serbia, and Great Britain.
Serbia? Why on earth?

UK - interesting history
Japan - cleanest country in the world, amazing and unique society
Israel - greatest military ever
Germany - interesting history and orderly, efficient culture
Cuba - preserves unique socialist values
USA - rich and powerful, multicultural
Sweden - hot chicks and an illustrious history
Netherlands - kicked everyone's asses in the 17th century

Holland because it has been an excellent home to me for 20 years and counting

China for it's culture and history and it's ability to recover from the many hardships through the years.

Japan for it's ability to constantly evolve and keep ahead of the technological race, it's intelligence and it's new tolerance.

it shocks me that so many people have said the USA and Israel! These two countries continuously defy the UN and have absolutely no problem with the means/ends mentality. Excuse me - can I draw your attention to just the latest in an extensive list of wars fuelled by an alterior motive? THERE'S NO BLOODY WMD'S! But there's plenty of oil. And as for Israel, why is it that suicide bombing is terrorism, yet flying helicopter gunships over settlements isnt! On the topic... as an Australian i am appaled at how much we strive to be the the next state of the US. Howard the snotty little piglet follows Bush into a blind war, we agree to a free-trade deal that is extremely detrimental to Australia and we utterly refuse to ratify the Kyoto protocol. WHY?!
The USA are a beacon of 'peace and hope'? My arse.As Gandhi said, 'There is no way to peace, peace is the way'.

Tuvalu, surely a fantastic place. Just watched a fantasy film where main characters dreamed about Tuvalu. (film=Tuvalu)

Tuvalu have to be the luckiest country in the world. When all the internet country codes were being assigned, they were given .tv (.co.tv, .org.tv etc, like .co.uk or .co.au) without realising it was the shortened version of television. When someone offered them $5000 for it, they thought it sounded great as they weren't using the internet at all. Luckily, someone in their parliment had heard of this internet thing and thought it was worth more. They eventually picked up $50million for the use of .tv, and in a country where the govt spends $15 million a year, it was a fair amount. They used it to provide free healthcare and education for all, and to pave the countries 15 miles of road.

Cuba, for steadfastedly holding on to a system unique in the Western hemisphere, which guarentees its people essential rights many lack elsewhere, and for spending more per capita on social issues than any other country in the Americas.

Highest number of females in parliment too- i think.

New Zealand-of course
Small nation Big in Wars.
"I have soldiered a long time now,but i have never in my life met men i would sooner soldier with than the New Zealanders."-General Sir Ian Hamilton 1901

They're a quite lot those New Zealanders...I've met those silent sort of blokes before,and they're always pretty handy when it comes to a scrap.-British NCO

"If i had the New Zealand Division i could have taken over the world."Ive heard this by Rommel unconfirmed though.

Here is a good one from a New Zealander to Rommel
Rommel congratulates the fighting quality of the New Zealanders.
Hargest-Yes they fight well, But your tanks were to powerful for us."
Rommel-"But you also have tanks?"
Hargest-"Yes,but not here,as you can see."
Rommel-"Perhaps my men are superior to yours?"
Hargest-"You know that is not the case."
:p LOL

Who captured the First German General in WWII?-New Zealand

Who was the First man to climb Mt Everest-Sir Edmund Hillary New Zealand

First Nation to allow Women to vote-New Zealand

Even then, there have been a number of points where the interests of the American and Israeli ruling classes have differed significantly. First, there is Israel's torpedoing of the navy spy ship USS Liberty in 1967, in the midst of American diplomatic (& covert intelligence) maneuvers to prevent Israel from achieving total victory in the war.Bit picky here its a Surveilance ship. :p

[QUOTE]Fifth, in the 1990-1991 Gulf War, the Israeli government wanted to join in the attack on Iraq (in retaliation for Iraqi missile attacks), and the U.S., wanting to maintain its coalition, refused to give Israel the "friend or foe" codes that would prevent its planes from being shot down.
Israel was not part of the alliance why would you give the codes if Israel was part of the game the Arab nations including Saudi Arabia would have felt intitled to withdraw troops and expel American,British French,etc troops cant attack something you cant touch-including Air lanes.

when an estimated 3 million Jewish Holocaust victims could've been saved if just the U.S. and UK had opened their borders to Jewish immigrants as late as 1942.Where?
The most famous Jewish banking family in Europe, the Rothschild family, had extensive investments in czarist Russia, the most anti-Semitic regime in modern history before the Nazis came along, and also bankrolled Mussolini and Hitler.
Mussolini's wife was Jewish.Dont get Fascism and Nazism confused.

Really? Interesting... I Googled it, and came up with this (http://www.filmfestivalrotterdam.com/en/film/4535.html).

Thanks for bringing it to my attention! :)

If you want the basics on the country itself, you can go here (http://www.lonelyplanet.com/mapshells/pacific/tuvalu/tuvalu.htm). Click on the map.


WOW! Their national day is my birthday...now that would be a place to go for a party! :D

For me

England - For doing some strange things but trying to do the right thing at the time (and for Bitter)
Scotland - For being part of the UK but still hating the English (also for Whisky)
Wales - For being part of UK, and being let of the Map of Europe (ahh..rarebit)
Ireland (north and south) - for being the most friendly, and subborn people I have ever met. (and Stout)
France - for doing what they want to
US - for doing what they want to

The rest of the world - for thier food and genes that made a lot of my friends.

Nations I don't admire:
Please see above, except the bit in brackets

I don't really admire the Australian government (except Campbell Newman, Peter Beattie and Simon Crean, all excellent chaps!) but I do admire Australia. I might be biased though.;)

Switzerland. Generally open and accepting of immigrants, one of the lowest crime rates in the world, one of the strongest economies in the world, and their political system has more then just 2 flavors of shit (they have about a dozen flavors of shit), it is divided up into cantons (much like states or territories) which have a certain level of political autonomy. If one canton goes in a political direction you don't like, chances are there's another with a political direction more to your liking. Great chocolate, watches and skiing. :D

Funny how as a right winger, I admire both Hitlerist nationalism (but not his racism) and Jewish nationalism. Unity sure is strength.

Funny, I rank nations low BECAUSE of things like nationalism. Nationalism is a pride in a piece of dirt, which leads to xenophobia and lots of chest beating. Nationilist countries tend to be warlike. What makes one piece of dirt any better then another piece of dirt. I don't hold loyalty to dirt. If my country starts sucking too badly, I'll move to another piece of dirt in a heartbeat. If America starts sucking too bad, but Brazil starts getting a lot better, I'm movin to Brazil. I see no reason why I should stay where it sucks if there's some place better. Right now, there isn't a place better then where I am, so I'll stay put for the time being.

New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Netherlands, Iceland and the Scandinavian Countries

It's not military strength they are famous for, but a more or less stable but progressive society.


The "military strength" of the US did nothing to prevent 9/11. In fact, if they wouldn't poke their nose in other people's business, 9/11 wouldn't have happened.

Hehe... Go Andorra, for the same reason! :D

Cuba, for steadfastedly holding on to a system unique in the Western hemisphere, which guarentees its people essential rights many lack elsewhere, and for spending more per capita on social issues than any other country in the Americas.

Where everyone is equally dirt poor (except for their leader who lives in extravagant wealth) and people risk their lives against gunfire and unpredicatble ocean weather to escape in little rafts. Sorry, but I don't see how free health care means much if you eat nothing but beans and rice, make $12 a month and don't have crap for luxuries. I like living in my air conditioned and gas heated home, driving my car, watching my DVD player on my 25" color television and working on my computer with a broadband connection. Canada has the same health care system, but a much better economy and standard of living, if free health care is how you rate a country.

BTW, what essential rights? Children are government property, there is no freedom of speech, press, assembly, patitioning the government for redress of grievences, protection from unreasonable search and siezure or almost ANY freedom. When it comes to Cuba, you can have it.

Countries I don't admire:

1. Sweden, Norway, Denmark, etc. for proving that Socialism actually works. IhateyouIhateyouIhateyouIhateyou. Unexceptional food.

I don't care if socialism works or not, I'm a utilitarian; whatever works. However, I think they've proven that extreme socialism does not work. Sweden has a major economic problem with the over bearing taxation brought on by the huge welfare programs they have. Perfectly able bodies stay home instead of go to work, because why should they work when they can live just fine off their welfare checks by staying home and playing video games? They're promoting unemployment, and that's putting a very large and unfair burden on those who do work. Those with wealth are leaving Sweden as quickly as they can to get away from the high taxation. That leaves even more of the burden on the working class people who can't afford to move.

BTW, I like pickled herring on crackers with beer. YUM!

...Perfectly able bodies stay home instead of go to work, because why should they work when they can live just fine off their welfare checks by staying home and playing video games? ...
It's not that simple. Sweden (as Finland) has had severe problems with unemployment for a decade. I'm pretty sure most of them would go to work if there would be any place where to work.

Third, the United States is NOT Israel's "eternal protector."

I have to disagree with you here. There are a LOT of VERY religious people in America who believe that all of Israel has to be under jewish control in order for Jesus to return. They want Jesus to return as quickly as possible, so they are actively trying to create the conditions described in the book of Revelations. This isn't just a small minority either, this is about 40% of the American population, including the president, speaker of the house, senate majority leader, attorney general (Ashcroft, I don't know anything about the incoming guy), the secretary of state, chief justice of the supreme court, and probably more that I don't know about.

It's not that simple. Sweden (as Finland) has had severe problems with unemployment for a decade. I'm pretty sure most of them would go to work if there would be any place where to work.
The welfare state isn't helping the unemployment, it's only perpetuating it. If these people didn't have their welfare, they would get a job PDQ one way or another. I don't think there should be NO safety cushion, but I don't think that safety cushion should be too big or long lasting. Just long enough to hustle up some new work. You can always find work, it's just a matter of what you're willing to do. Most people aren't willing to flip burgers, but burger flipping joints are always hiring and you can get a job there if you want it. If nothing else, you can make a job. Not all jobs come from multi-national corporations, many of them come from local businesses that are started and run by someone. Making excuses for a victim mentality doesn't cut it with me, and that seems to be the socialist way; make excuses for those who won't and bash those who do.

The welfare state isn't helping the unemployment, it's only perpetuating it. If these people didn't have their welfare, they would get a job PDQ one way or another. I don't think there should be NO safety cushion, but I don't think that safety cushion should be too big or long lasting. Just long enough to hustle up some new work. You can always find work, it's just a matter of what you're willing to do. Most people aren't willing to flip burgers, but burger flipping joints are always hiring and you can get a job there if you want it. If nothing else, you can make a job. Not all jobs come from multi-national corporations, many of them come from local businesses that are started and run by someone. Making excuses for a victim mentality doesn't cut it with me, and that seems to be the socialist way; make excuses for those who won't and bash those who do.
Are you from the USA? Because you talk like someone from the USA. You just don't get it.
The world is not only about GDP and the Dow Jones.
Productivity is very high in Scandinavia, and people work less hours than in the US for more output. Unemployment is not a real problem since unemployed people are allowed to live.

Most people aren't willing to flip burgers, but burger flipping joints are always hiring and you can get a job there if you want it. If nothing else, you can make a job. Not all jobs come from multi-national corporations, many of them come from local businesses that are started and run by someone.

Burger flipping joints are always hiring? in Finland and Sweden? Are you sure? I can make a job, but not everyone can. Furthermore, I quite like the fact that the welfare state provides an opportunity for lazy morons to stay out of my life by not getting in my face at my workplace, selling me burgers etc.

Poland and Belgium. Two examples of European defiance against odds.

Belgium

Refusing to surrender to the Germans during WW1 and thereby holding the Germans up for another week or two. Though in the end they failed to protect their nation and the Germans marched through, what they did manage to do was to slow down the Germans long enough for the French to get themselves togther. In this respect, France owes a lot to Beligum. Had they surrendered immidately then it is indeed possible that the Germans could have reached Paris in a matter of days, as they had planned. Also Belgiums defiance gave Britain the time it needed to move troops into France in prepeartion for a countor attack

Poland

Another "better than the French" nation. Hitler lost more men and equipment invading Poland with the Poles on horseback than he did in France with the "might" of the French army against him. Also the Warsaw uprising and occupation was majorly impressive. From April 19th to May 16th 1943, Polish Jewish prisoners held the Warsaw ghetto against the well trained and armed Germans with little food and precious few guns.

Vynnland, believe me, it's very hard to find any job. You obviously don't know how bad the situation is around here. Of course there are always jobs, but only for highly educated people (academic unemployment is a big problem too). Cleaners are always wanted too, but it might be impossible to do that either. They usually have to work very early in the morning and they often need a car to get to work. What if you don't have a car?

You can always find work, it's just a matter of what you're willing to do. Most people aren't willing to flip burgers, but burger flipping joints are always hiring and you can get a job there if you want it.

Part of the value of unemployment benefits is that it gives workers more leverage in looking for a job ... people who have jobs get paid more because there isn't a flood of people competing for work ... and people can choose not to take certain jobs ... forcing employers to treat their employees with some measure of dignity, provision for safety, etc. Under the Hartz IV plan in Germany, women have been forced to accept jobs as prostitutes, or lose their unemployment benefits.

Anyway, are you suggesting that the number of burger flipping jobs available at any given time exceeds the number of unemployed people? Because this is ludicrous.

England - Live here and love it :D
Scotland and Wales - Because they're just so damn pretty.
Holland, Sweden, Denmark, etc - Just because.

There are some bits of America and American policy that I admire...but a great deal more that I don't. Majority wins. Sorry.

I admire the Native American and Australian Aboriginal peoples of the world.

Why? Because they have stood proud in the face of attempted annihilation and still exist, even in a limited capacity, and cling to their ideals - even though those who conquered them wanted them to change.

To Aboriginal peoples everywhere, I salute thee.

And I salute Keruvalia :)

I admire the Netherlands, for being so progressive and just generally seeming like a cool place to live. Also the Scandinavian countries for their nifty social policy.

I admire New Zealand because their government puts Australia's to shame. (And have some strange liking for their sporting teams.)

Brazil

For the cultural diversity, and for discovering how to deal with religious differences without resorting to violence. In addition it is one of the most beautiful and varied countries in the world geographically, but does not suffer from big natural disasters. The general attitude of the people, which is smile first and only frown if necessary, rather than the other way around. It has probably the second largest undevelopped economic potentia, after China, but is post a post dictatorship country so freedom of speech etc. are held sacred.

The UK

This time it is for its people. The British, despite being too arrogant at times are one of the most inventive and resourceful nationalities. They are not the best at making practical use of their ideas, this goes to the Americans, the South East Asians and Japanese. They do however have more and crazier ideas than any other nationality I know of (per capita). This derives, I think, from the characteristic that I most admire, the fierce independance and individuality. Walking down the street in the majority of countries it is easy to tell what is in fashion; in the UK you would have no idea that there was such a thing as a current fashion due to the variety of styles.

OK.
I admit to bias as I am British and live in Brazil, but we are all biased with respect to our favourite things.

Under the Hartz IV plan in Germany, women have been forced to accept jobs as prostitutes, or lose their unemployment benefits.


Utter Nonsense. Read here:
http://www.snopes.com/media/notnews/brothel.asp

I have to disagree with you here. There are a LOT of VERY religious people in America who believe that all of Israel has to be under jewish control in order for Jesus to return. They want Jesus to return as quickly as possible, so they are actively trying to create the conditions described in the book of Revelations. This isn't just a small minority either, this is about 40% of the American population, including the president, speaker of the house, senate majority leader, attorney general (Ashcroft, I don't know anything about the incoming guy), the secretary of state, chief justice of the supreme court, and probably more that I don't know about.

I would be fascinated if you could come up with a trustworthy source for this information. Really!

Thailand- After all these years, its Communist Party is still banned. The food is great. Plus, my g.f. lives there. :D

How can you admire a country?

I am Canadian and admire my own country for a few reasons. First, we have manged to keep the fastest growing economy in the G8 without sacrificing our healthcare or welfare systems. We helped out in ithe Second World War to such an extent that the Americans who fought beside Canadian troops said that they were the bravest that they had ever seen and repeatedly charged trenches despite the risk. During the Rwandan massacre, Canadians were of the very few nations who stood and fought the genocide. We tend to get along with the United States without backing down on principle, and enjoy a stunning environment (anybody here been to BC?). Finally, I love Canada because people, even if they don't like us that much, can't find any real reason to hate Canada other than the fact that our military has been in a state of decline.

so...

EH!!!!!!!

Japan- Very accepting culture, mmm sushi, sweet ass technology,MECCA OF TURNTABLISM!etc.
Thailand- mmmm thai food, etc......
UK- Great hip hop culture, sweet accents, etc...
And of course, Italia- my familys heritage, they banned GMO agriculture, who the hell doesnt like italian food?

USA because of it's overwhleming worldwide power and reletively high amount for freedoms. I have some issues with my country, but they're personal.

Swizerland: They've managed to stay neutral and sovergn for hundreds of years, and yet still support a large millitia that could give pretty much any nation a run for it's money in those mountains. Love the candy they make as well (I like food, so sue me :p)

Germany: a very resilient nation that would have been an excelent ally throughout the 20'th century had it not been for WW1. Realy a pitty.

Isreal: This tiny nation managed to kick the asses of all it's neighbors united against it. They also are apparently finaly on the path to peace with the palistinians. Heres to hopeing this doesn't fall through.

Britain: As stated before, great all-rounders, they conqured an exceptionaly large empire, and it lasted for a good while too. Some truely great movies as well (Snatch, Lock Stock and Two Smokeing Barrels). Bad food though.

Are you british? or have you eaten alot of meals here? I'm British and I don't eat bad food!!!

I admire bhutan!!!

I am Canadian and admire my own country for a few reasons. First, we have manged to keep the fastest growing economy in the G8 without sacrificing our healthcare or welfare systems. We helped out in ithe Second World War to such an extent that the Americans who fought beside Canadian troops said that they were the bravest that they had ever seen and repeatedly charged trenches despite the risk. During the Rwandan massacre, Canadians were of the very few nations who stood and fought the genocide. We tend to get along with the United States without backing down on principle, and enjoy a stunning environment (anybody here been to BC?). Finally, I love Canada because people, even if they don't like us that much, can't find any real reason to hate Canada other than the fact that our military has been in a state of decline.

so...

EH!!!!!!!

EHmen!

I agree, we need a better military.

THERE'S NO BLOODY WMD'S!
Everyone thought there was at the time -- even the French.


But there's plenty of oil. And as for Israel, why is it that suicide bombing is terrorism, yet flying helicopter gunships over settlements isnt!

o_O How is flying a helicopter around a terrorist act?

On the topic... as an Australian i am appaled at how much we strive to be the the next state of the US. Howard the snotty little piglet follows Bush into a blind war, we agree to a free-trade deal that is extremely detrimental to Australia and we utterly refuse to ratify the Kyoto protocol. WHY?!

Because humans do not significantly contribute to climate change?

.As Gandhi said, 'There is no way to peace, peace is the way'.
Why would I care what a starving, toilet-carrying Hindu said?

Iceland
Norway
Sweden
Finland
Germany
Scotland
Ireland
Wales

England - Because you can't get cooler than the 24th of Foot making a last stand against 4000 crazed Zulus at Rorke's Drift.

Canada - Because its the best damn country in the world, hands down. Or, at least it will be, when we get our hockey back....

Australia - The country that truly gives a middle finger to the rest of the world on foreign policy.

New Zealand - Because the LOTR trilogy was filmed there.

Scotland - Because the people and landscapes absolutely ooze character and history.

Greece - Because my family's from there and it gave all that the Western World holds dear. Damn straight. And they won the European Football Championships!!!

Sweden - Their women are mint. No other words needed. :P

Iceland
Norway
Sweden
Finland
Germany
Scotland
Ireland
Wales

No Denmark, North Island? You do surprise me ;)

I admire the US of God damn A.

So, you're a right-winger and you think Bush is a dickhead?
So eloquent...

Everyone thought there was at the time -- even the French.


o_O How is flying a helicopter around a terrorist act?

Because humans do not significantly contribute to climate change?

Why would I care what a starving, toilet-carrying Hindu said?

You, sir, are a fascist bastard. You have been added to the enemies of the people list.

No Denmark, North Island? You do surprise me ;)

Don't get me started on the Danes. ;)

You can always find work, it's just a matter of what you're willing to do. Most people aren't willing to flip burgers, but burger flipping joints are always hiring and you can get a job there if you want it.
I really hope you aren't Swedish or Finnish because if you were you'd know that around here a burger does not cost 0.90€ like in the US, it costs 2.50€. It's simply because Swedes and Finns prefer to eat at home. Hence burger companies do not hire all the time.
In general, getting a job here in Finland is really tough. I remember an answer I got when I applied for a simple summer job at a summer sports "camp" that would have made me 500€: "Unfortunately, your application was not chosen from the 1206 applications we got for this job. Have a nice summer!"

Mussolini's wife was not Jewish. She was Italian. His longtime mistress, Margherita Sarfatti was Jewish, but she later converted to Catholicism.

About Serbia: I admire them for their patriotism and strength in the face of NATO aggression.

i am just joining this conversation and i have to say..if i could i would move to someplace like Britian or Spain or maybe Canada. although i dont really have a "favorite" country, but those would be my top choices.

http://www.stephaniesworld.com/beaver1.jpg


http://www.stephaniesworld.com/Canadarocks.gif

http://www.stephaniesworld.com/beaver1.jpg


http://www.stephaniesworld.com/Canadarocks.gif

DAMN straight

Poland and Belgium. Two examples of European defiance against odds.
Poland

Another "better than the French" nation. Hitler lost more men and equipment invading Poland with the Poles on horseback than he did in France with the "might" of the French army against him. Also the Warsaw uprising and occupation was majorly impressive. From April 19th to May 16th 1943, Polish Jewish prisoners held the Warsaw ghetto against the well trained and armed Germans with little food and precious few guns.
Poorly armed Germans thank you very much there was a reason why they had an uprising.
The simple fact that the Russians were knocking the crap out of the Germans.
The uprising didnt even need to happen.Stalin deliberatly let the Germans win so all the pro West leaders in Poland could be wiped out!

Hitler lost more men and equipment invading Poland with the Poles on horseback than he did in France with the "might" of the French army against him.

The reason was, he didn't have the might of the french army against him. He went around.

In one battle against the russians, the germans used more shells in 30 minutes than they did taking france and poland combined. 900k krauts snuffed it in the same battle..

Burger flipping joints are always hiring? in Finland and Sweden? Are you sure? I can make a job, but not everyone can. Furthermore, I quite like the fact that the welfare state provides an opportunity for lazy morons to stay out of my life by not getting in my face at my workplace, selling me burgers etc.
No, they just go to your work place, and get in your face buying the burgers. Now you're in the position where you can't tell them to get bent, because they're the customer.

Part of the value of unemployment benefits is that it gives workers more leverage in looking for a job ... people who have jobs get paid more because there isn't a flood of people competing for work ... and people can choose not to take certain jobs ... forcing employers to treat their employees with some measure of dignity, provision for safety, etc. Under the Hartz IV plan in Germany, women have been forced to accept jobs as prostitutes, or lose their unemployment benefits.

I'm not against unemployment insurance, but only for a short period of time.

Anyway, are you suggesting that the number of burger flipping jobs available at any given time exceeds the number of unemployed people? Because this is ludicrous.

That's certainly true where I live, because most people aren't willing to do that work. That work is normally done by kids in college, the end of high school or adults who are either incapable of or unwilling to getting a better job.

I would be fascinated if you could come up with a trustworthy source for this information. Really!
Listen to Pat Robertson, Jerry Falwell, or any other major evangelical religious leader in America. Then listen to those in the government who invoke god a lot, look at their policies. The president is an unabashed evangelical, Condoleeza Rice is unabashed about her religion and her position on Israel, Ashcroft is unabashedly religious and even bought a $10,000 curtain at taxpayer's expense to cover up the boobs of the statue of liberty in the justice building. I don't have any source other then my observations. I'm sure that finding such sources wouldn't be difficult though.

Do a search on "dominionism" for starters.

This link is kinda propogandist, but it does make a legitimate case.
http://www.yuricareport.com/Dominionism/TheDespoilingOfAmerica.htm

I really hope you aren't Swedish or Finnish because if you were you'd know that around here a burger does not cost 0.90€ like in the US, it costs 2.50€.

Who told you burgers in America cost that? The second figure is more like it. All in all, we're paying about the same for burgers that you are. Carry on. :cool:

I really hope you aren't Swedish or Finnish because if you were you'd know that around here a burger does not cost 0.90€ like in the US, it costs 2.50€. It's simply because Swedes and Finns prefer to eat at home. Hence burger companies do not hire all the time.
In general, getting a job here in Finland is really tough. I remember an answer I got when I applied for a simple summer job at a summer sports "camp" that would have made me 500€: "Unfortunately, your application was not chosen from the 1206 applications we got for this job. Have a nice summer!"

Indeed, we do not (yet) have the "fast food" culture that is found in USA. We actually like to eat real tasting (not cardboard tasting) food if possible...

The so called 'Big Mac' index by 'The Economist' shows that a Big Mac in Sweden costs 30:- SEK (4,30 USD) compared to 2,65 USD in USA.

http://www.oanda.com/products/bigmac/bigmac.shtml

I admire the U.S., cause we've produced the greatest minds of the last 200 years.. the guy who invented corn dogs, that negro guy who invented peanut butter, or at least sparked the interest in peanuts of the people who did, the Ferris Wheel (possibly), and fried cheese.

Also Thomas Edison.. they say he tried close to 10,000 filaments before finding the right one for the modern type bulb.. also Ben Franklin invented the lazy susan I think, and the Armonica, which gave a buncha krauts and English lead poisoning (oops).. also Pepe Dominguez, author, historian, bon vivant - inventor of the stuffed pickle.

Hmm, allot of people would thing this strange; the countries i'd admire are mongolia greenland(i know it's a territory of denmark) svaldbard(territory of finland) iceland bhutan tibet(if it were still a country) and probably cambodia and the koreas

Hmm, allot of people would thing this strange; the countries i'd admire are mongolia greenland(i know it's a territory of denmark) svaldbard(territory of finland) iceland bhutan tibet(if it were still a country) and probably cambodia and the koreas

Svalbard is Norwegian territory, not Finnish.

I'd have to say the Netherlands. It's a hippie paradise, and they have tasty cheese!

I admire the Native American and Australian Aboriginal peoples of the world.

Why? Because they have stood proud in the face of attempted annihilation and still exist, even in a limited capacity, and cling to their ideals - even though those who conquered them wanted them to change.

To Aboriginal peoples everywhere, I salute thee.

********************
There wasn't attempted annihilation. If annihilation was the goal, the Australian and American machines could have handled that easily. Clinging to old ways isn't admirable... Living for what you believe is admirable. That is what they do. They live for what they believe (not all of them but some of them). by the way, not all of the so-called conquering races are evil, and not all of the conquered races are righteous. :fluffle:

USA - Probably the most industrious nation of all time, where your past does not dictate your future. If the US didn't exist (Bush-bashers, please consider all of history here), the world would be a much poorer place.

Slovakia - A piece of other kingdoms for a thousand years, this Slavic tribe held itself as a single people, despite not codifying their own language until the 17th century. They also make the *best* beer... every town of 10.000 has their own (centuries old) brewery.

Poland - An underdog since the time of Jan Sobieski III & the siege of Vienna, the Poles live for each other and love their nation. As far as I know, it is the only nation in the world that never produced a Quisling.

Great Britain - The island with a culture that really did change the world, and an absurdity of talent in just about every field.

Austria - Say softly, "servus". The Austrians embody, perhaps, the best and worst in mankind at the same time.

Just back from a winterclimb and skidecent on Mont Blanc,verry bad conditions but we spend a day in Italy to. Best food and winecountries in the world.

1. Italy
2. France (specially to for their courage against Bush).
3. Finland

241. Kongo
242. Israel
243. US

1) Sweden - (I don't know. I have a soft spot for Scandanvian countries. I just love them.)
2) Canada - (Awesome people, awesome country.)
3) Finland - (See Sweden.)
4) Norway - (See Sweden.)
5) France - (Not bending over to US desires.)
6) Switzerland - (See Canada.)
7) Iran - (See France.)
8) United Kingdom - (See Canada.)
.
.
.
242) United States of America - (I hate the politics, the partisan split, and some of the people. See VoteEarly)
243) Israel - :rolleyes:

it shocks me that so many people have said the USA and Israel! These two countries continuously defy the UN and have absolutely no problem with the means/ends mentality. Excuse me - can I draw your attention to just the latest in an extensive list of wars fuelled by an alterior motive? THERE'S NO BLOODY WMD'S! But there's plenty of oil. And as for Israel, why is it that suicide bombing is terrorism, yet flying helicopter gunships over settlements isnt! On the topic... as an Australian i am appaled at how much we strive to be the the next state of the US. Howard the snotty little piglet follows Bush into a blind war, we agree to a free-trade deal that is extremely detrimental to Australia and we utterly refuse to ratify the Kyoto protocol. WHY?!
The USA are a beacon of 'peace and hope'? My arse.As Gandhi said, 'There is no way to peace, peace is the way'.

****************
Yes, excuse you. You are under the false impression you, and people like you, have access to more information than everyone else in the thinking, free world. You don't have any more information, but it is obvious you have the political propaganda to support your beliefs, or those beliefs you've been told to hold true. WMD's or the lack thereof in Iraq doesn't make all of America a bad place. Helicopter gunships do not equate to terrorism and do not make Israel evil either. You have been told what to think and you wholesale believe what you and your liberal group of friends believe. You're not an independent thinker, because you only regurgitate what you've seen or read. Bring an original thought to the table. Say something you didn't see on the news. America has its faults, but it's a great place. Israel is full of great people. These countries are great countries, and all of your whining, mouth agape in horror, won't change the fact that they are. Stop quoting Gandhi too. I doubt he would want a moron molesting his words to make a cookie-cutter point. :sniper:

So eloquent...

So smug. :sniper:

You, sir, are a fascist bastard. You have been added to the enemies of the people list.

You, ma'am, are a whiner. You have been added to the "Only Useful As Toilet Paper" list. :sniper:

I admire the new Germany a lot..

IT seems they have a greater sense of self...

And they seem to have a fairly good understanding of consequences of past and present actions..

Troy*

Cuba - World's last country which aims to achieve Communism, has best health service and education in Latin America, lower infant mortality rate than USA.

Venezuala - Has elected very left-wing president (Hugo Chavez) who strongly resists US imperialism and globalisation and has started redirecting money from the oil industry (now nationalised) into social welfare.

France - World's best health service, strongly opposed to American imperialism and the Americanisation of culture, increased support for Communist Party in many areas.

Belgium - Highest taxes in Europe, one of Europe's most equal countries, against Iraq war.

Uruguay - Has elected left-wing government for the first time ever,water has recently been declared a human right after a referendum.

Argentina - Also has left wing president (Nestor Kirchner) who has resisted the neo-liberal policies which ruined the Argentinian economy several years ago.

Norway - Richest country in the world, state ownership of large parts of the economy, extensive welfare state.

Sweden - Also one of Europe's wealthiest countries, extensive state ownership and social security, largest percentage of women in parliament in Europe (except Welsh assembly).

Czech Republic - Communists now second largest party, got 20% in recent European election.

Countries I don't admire:

1. Sweden, Norway, Denmark, etc. for proving that Socialism actually works. IhateyouIhateyouIhateyouIhateyou. Unexceptional food.


Note that "works" does not mean the same thing as "works well".

I admit it does work better than a lot of other countries, though

USA because of it's overwhleming worldwide power and reletively high amount for freedoms. I have some issues with my country, but they're personal.

Swizerland: They've managed to stay neutral and sovergn for hundreds of years, and yet still support a large millitia that could give pretty much any nation a run for it's money in those mountains. Love the candy they make as well (I like food, so sue me :p)

Germany: a very resilient nation that would have been an excelent ally throughout the 20'th century had it not been for WW1. Realy a pitty.

Isreal: This tiny nation managed to kick the asses of all it's neighbors united against it. They also are apparently finaly on the path to peace with the palistinians. Heres to hopeing this doesn't fall through.

Britain: As stated before, great all-rounders, they conqured an exceptionaly large empire, and it lasted for a good while too. Some truely great movies as well (Snatch, Lock Stock and Two Smokeing Barrels). Bad food though.

Bad food??? man the foods amazing, roast everything!!!

Canada - Because I live there, people are generally socially liberal, and we have decent freedoms. We've also taken part in every UN peacekeeping mission ever.

Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Iceland - They prove that socialism is a viable form of government, and they are democratic as well. Besides that, all spend a sizeable portion of their GDP on foreign aid.

The Netherlands - Because of it's progressive social policies. Ok, it may be getting a little frayed now, but still good.

Leichtenstein - A tiny, double landlocked country, that still manages to send 0.8% of its GDP as international aid.

Tuvalu - Because I admire their courage. Thanks to us polluting in the west, the entire country is in danger of being submerged. So, they're all moving to New Zealand.

New Zealand - Because they have taken part in every UN peacekeeping mission ever, and are opening their doors to the Tuvalans.

Tokelau - Because they give their domain names away for free. :p

Here are countries I like and what I like about them.

Sweden - a beautiful landscape and cities.

France - great food, cities, and artistic/musical heritage.

Italy - great food, cities, and superpowered artistic/musical heritage.

Canada - beautiful natural landscapes, conscientius, community-minded people, civil liberties.

USA - civil liberties.

Are you ruled by your stomach? There's more to countries than naked statues and pretty pictures. It's national image and capability that is most important.
I disagree. Huge military powers come and go, but great art has an eternal quality about it.

Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Iceland - They prove that socialism is a viable form of government, and they are democratic as well. Besides that, all spend a sizeable portion of their GDP on foreign aid.

Your choices are great, although I have not been to most of the countries you name!

However, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Iceland are not really socialist, because they all have market economies. But yes, their form of government is one of the best in the world.

Your choices are great, although I have not been to most of the countries you name!

However, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Iceland are not really socialist, because they all have market economies. But yes, their form of government is one of the best in the world.
I haven't been to them either, I just admire them.

And yeah, they're not Socialists, but they are Democratic Socialists. So they have a welfare state in place, and they do redistribute the wealth.

In comparison, a country like China, which claims to be socialist, has a huge rich-poor divide, and actually encourages multinational corporations to enter the economy (Walmart anyone?).

I admire Canada, since they're right above the US (geographically), but so much different. They are way more socially progressive, have much better policies especially for minorities - imo, the Canadians are much freer people than the USians.

Another country I like is Switzerland for its neutrality and their similar culture to our own (Germany). Of course Austria too, since they are some sort of brother nation. German-speaking too :)

Another country I admire is China, for it's incredibly long and diverse history, for the size of that country and the prospect that China will eventually (and inevitably) become the world's superpower and they might use their power more responsibly than the Americans. The world is in dire need of a counterbalance to the war-mongering and power-hungry Americans (sorry if I'm generalizing, I mean the Bush-loving kind).

Yet another country I admire is France, for it's unwavering resistance to the Iraq war - Viva La Grande Nation! I think we're seeing eye-to-eye lately, so there is a good friendship possible, if the French can forgive Germany for WW2 that is.

More countries I admire: New Zealand (great landscape, thanks for Lord of the Rings :)), Japan (dunno why, they are just funny people and stereotypical tourists, keke), all Scandinavian countries since they are just as socially progressive as Germany and they usually are neutral too. I think that's it.

The country I least admire are the US, since they are too imperialistic for my taste and the americanization of the world's cultures is very, very bad. However the US do have one of the oldest democracies in the world, although there's not much left of it nowadays. The US also make a great nation to complain about, so thanks for that at least.

Natural conservatism of the Chinese? Conservatism and biological determinism are both bullshit, not to mention out of date. I'd say Japan is cool for maintaining such a good image despite the great evil within. The US could take a few lessons from them on that. I'm told Holland is the freest nation in the world.

Greece: Though only a small nation of just 10 million today, Western Civilzation would not be what it is today withouth them. Greece gave us mathematics, mythology, art, literature, theater, democracy, philosophy, and empiricism. They were had excellent military minds.

China: They are the Greece of the Eastern World. They are the world's oldest civilization, having endured for over 5 millenia and are the home of Confusious (sp?). And while the West was stuck in the Middle Ages, The Middle Kingdom was the most advanced civilization in the world. They are the inventors of countless things we consider normal in today's world

France: Paris was THE center of European and Western civilazation for over 300 years between the years of 1500 and 1800. The French Revolution brought about the Age of Revolution to all of Europe. France is/was home to some of the greatest thinkers, inventors, artists, and writers of the madern world.

United Kingdom: The British Empire is the greatest ever. Larger than the empires of Genghis Kahn and ancient Rome combined. At it's heigh, it covered over a quarter of the world's total land are. England is also the home of the industrial revolution. From 1750-1850, Great Britain went from producing 2% of the entire world's total industrial outpu to 20%. That is a staggering number for a large country, let alone a tiny island.

Oceans Kick Major Posterior.
Yes we do :D

USA its a love the Country and hate the Bushites thing...dont ask.
Netherland...Land of the Free.
Japan...good Cars and Electronics.
China ..I just read their history.

more to come...

I respect all countries in one way or another, but I have to say the country I respect the most is my home country of Canada, thanks to this awesome country, I was able to grow up healthy and strong with open minded beliefs and a respect for all living beings.

Usa

Scandinavian contries, France, Canada, GB, Japan: For being what they are, culturally, gastronomically and politically. Paris is not included.

Brazil: Because I'm from there ;) Best goddamned food in the world. Mostly nice people, except in Rio where people are wankers. :d

Bravo. I second that. To all the indigenous minorities in the world, you deserve our admiration.


They deserve admiration because they are in minority?!
That sounds like admiration just being handed out to those who have done nothing to earn it.
I really dont want to sound like a conceited chauvanistic pig, but what have those minorities accomplished, what has made them great?
Look at Britain, Germany, China, or even the USA and you see that they have left an indelible mark on the vast pages of human history.

Surely this makes them more worthy of admiration that indigenious people that still gather heat from camp fires...

241. Kongo
242. Israel
243. US

Just great, specially the 242 relation towards Israel ;)

Argentina - Also has left wing president (Nestor Kirchner) who has resisted the neo-liberal policies which ruined the Argentinian economy several years ago.


Left wing only by comparison to the military. He is still essentially a Peronist, and Peronism was what wrecked Argentina's economy. (Apart from the completely ingrained self delusion that Argentina is the greatest and most successful country in the world, that is)

Sorry. I live in South Brazil, and Argentinians a a regional hazard in the summer.

On this subject. Why no mention of Brazil, with its PT left of centre government?

Left wing only by comparison to the military. He is still essentially a Peronist, and Peronism was what wrecked Argentina's economy. (Apart from the completely ingrained self delusion that Argentina is the greatest and most successful country in the world, that is)

Sorry. I live in South Brazil, and Argentinians a a regional hazard in the summer.

On this subject. Why no mention of Brazil, with its PT left of centre government?

Nestor Kirchner is one of the most left-wing presidents in Latin America and he has rejected many of the neo-liberal economic policies the USA is trying to enforce on the region. He also appears to be close to Chavez of Venezuala who is the most radical South American leader.

In regards to the economy it is absurd to say that Peronism had anything to do with the collapse a few years ago which was the result of 15 years of a fascist dictatorship and the extreme neo-liberal policies followed by former President Carlos Menem. Kirchner has been the first President to criticise the economic policies followed since 1976 and the progressive policies he is following have resulted in some economic improvements.

I probably should have mentioned Brazil and Lula is another of the new left-wing leaders of Latin America although his failure to implement some of the progressive reforms the Workers Party (PT) had promised has recently resulted in the resignation of two parties from the governing coalition.

Mars...is that a country?

Cuba - World's last country which aims to achieve Communism, has best health service and education in Latin America, lower infant mortality rate than USA.

Venezuala - Has elected very left-wing president (Hugo Chavez) who strongly resists US imperialism and globalisation and has started redirecting money from the oil industry (now nationalised) into social welfare.

France - World's best health service, strongly opposed to American imperialism and the Americanisation of culture, increased support for Communist Party in many areas.

Belgium - Highest taxes in Europe, one of Europe's most equal countries, against Iraq war.

Uruguay - Has elected left-wing government for the first time ever,water has recently been declared a human right after a referendum.

Argentina - Also has left wing president (Nestor Kirchner) who has resisted the neo-liberal policies which ruined the Argentinian economy several years ago.

Norway - Richest country in the world, state ownership of large parts of the economy, extensive welfare state.

Sweden - Also one of Europe's wealthiest countries, extensive state ownership and social security, largest percentage of women in parliament in Europe (except Welsh assembly).

Czech Republic - Communists now second largest party, got 20% in recent European election.

Commies are the imperialists, not Americans.

Commies are the imperialists, not Americans.
you have the same problem he has..
you are brainwash ;)

Sweden - Their women are mint. No other words needed. :P


I think the way morality in Sweden is, most of the women, at least in my opinion, would be classed as "Used". Sweden is not known for morality in regards to sexuality, it seems a very permissive country. Just my thoughts though.

South Africa-

They engaged in 9 frontier wars against crazed tribals, they fought the entire might of the British empire for years, only giving up when it was obvious to continue would doom their women and children to death in the british death camps (the british were the first to ever use concentration camps, and they used them to kill about 25,000 Boer women and children). Then South Africa stood against the rising tide of world communism from the 1940s into the 1980s, finally they were sold out in 1994.

But fear not... Boer natie wilt u een dag verhoging op opnieuw! Sterker dan ooit!



Rhodesia-

What more needs to be said, they were on the frontline against communism for many many years. Rise O Voices of Rhodesia!



Portuguese Angola-

A strong ally of Rhodesia and South Africa. What more must I say?



Salazar's Portugal-

A grand nation all around, need I say more? They were run by the wonderful Antonio Salazar.

I think the way morality in Sweden is, most of the women, at least in my opinion, would be classed as "Used". Sweden is not known for morality in regards to sexuality, it seems a very permissive country. Just my thoughts though.

Yes, those grossly obese virgins from Utah with their tall hair are enchanting...

Yes, those grossly obese virgins from Utah with their tall hair are enchanting...


Have you ever seen a Boer woman? They're enchanting, and many have not been taken in by the ANC self-hate propaganda and thus haven't given into the whoredom that is what has become of South Africa.


But the way you mock virginity and modesty, as I see you seem to mock it anyway, you'd not be able to get a Boer woman, at least not a good one. And nor would you deserve one. If you think mere physical looks are all that matters, then you don't deserve a good Afrikaner Calvinist woman.

You go to Sweden and get all the Swedish women you want, I'll go to South Africa and look for one woman, for I only want one.

You go to Sweden and get all the Swedish women you want, I'll go to South Africa and look for one woman, for I only want one.

I don't know a single South African woman who would put up with you. And yeah, some of them are Boer women...

I don't know a single South African woman who would put up with you. And yeah, some of them are Boer women...

How about women in Boeremag or Afrikaner WeerstandBewiging?

Meh, you're not a Boer, you're not even an English South African, you're not even a white Afrikaans speaker, I don't care what you think, know, or what you think you know...

:D

Meh, you're not a Boer, you're not even an English South African, you're not even a white Afrikaans speaker, I don't care what you think or know or what you think you know...
So you automatically dismiss anything done/said by a non-white person? How sad :rolleyes:

So you automatically dismiss anything done/said by a non-white person? How sad :rolleyes:


No, it's just in your case, your past dealings with me on this forum, and your horrible anti-Boer, anti-Afrikaner, anti-Afrikaans bias, I take what you say with a grain of salt.

Have you ever seen a Boer woman? They're enchanting, and many have not been taken in by the ANC self-hate propaganda and thus haven't given into the whoredom that is what has become of South Africa.


But the way you mock virginity and modesty, as I see you seem to mock it anyway, you'd not be able to get a Boer woman, at least not a good one. And nor would you deserve one. If you think mere physical looks are all that matters, then you don't deserve a good Afrikaner Calvinist woman.

You go to Sweden and get all the Swedish women you want, I'll go to South Africa and look for one woman, for I only want one.

I have to admit that I don't know much about the sexual behavior of people in Africa.
But the opressed, submissive, religious-cult types don't interest me...So I guess I'm lucky to be here in Iceland, where there are plenty of women who are intelligent, good-looking and independant.

anti-Boer, anti-Afrikaner, anti-Afrikaans bias
I have NEVER said anything that was anti-Boer or anti-Afrikaner. I actually speak some Afrikaans and appreciate it as a language. Many of my friends from school back in South Africa were Afrikaners. Many of them were also English, Indian and Zulu.

What I don't like are racist, sexist conservatives.

Don't try to turn it around and make me look like a bigot.

I'll go to South Africa and look for one woman, for I only want one.

So, you are looking for a "suikerbossie"? (you have to call your wife like that in Afrikaans) Zie dat je mevrouw nie beu geraak nie.

Nice languages he! but really, they are rather fat, better take a "kleurling" (mixture of Indian-black("swartmens") and sometimes some white aded), they are really beautifall and less fat ("dik") then the whities ("witmensen").

So, you are looking for a "suikerbossie"? (you have to call your wife like that in Afrikaans) Zie dat je mevrouw nie beu geraak nie.

Nice languages he! but really, they are rather fat, better take a "kleurling" (mixture of Indian-black("swartmens") and sometimes some white aded), they are really beautifall and less fat ("dik") then the whities ("witmensen").


I don't know too much Afrikaans, I'm trying to learn. My father only ever taught me English. My mother tried to teach me the languages she knows (German, Dutch, etc), but when I was a young boy, I really didn't care. Now I do, and it's an uphill battle trying to learn. But I'm making some progress.

Technically, Vatican City is its own nation, so it doesn't really belong to Italy.

Technically, I think he said Italy. Though Vatican city is not in Italy geopolitically , it is geographically within Italy. The culture is Italian, the language is Italian (along with liturgical Latin), the food is Italian. It's within the city of Rome for God's sake. It's not some odd ancient ethnic enclave.

In no specific order:
Sweden
USA
England
Israel
Switzerland
The Chechen People
Japan
Turkey

In no specific order:
Sweden
USA
England
Israel
Switzerland
The Chechen People
Japan
Turkey

Yay for Chechnya!

I admire Katanga (it briefly became a nation in the early 60's when Moise Tshombe seceded from the Congo).

We're studying the unification of Germany in World History. :)

Our class also has a project on this website. Neat-o, eh?

I admire Katanga (it briefly became a nation in the early 60's when Moise Tshombe seceded from the Congo).

I also admire Rhodesia, Taiwan, South Vietnam, the former West Germany, and Australia under Menzies.

We're studying the unification of Germany in World History. :)

Our class also has a project on this website. Neat-o, eh?

The moral-group of our class also have a project on NS, unfortunately I follow religion. :(

Sweden has a major economic problem with the over bearing taxation brought on by the huge welfare programs they have. Perfectly able bodies stay home instead of go to work, because why should they work when they can live just fine off their welfare checks by staying home and playing video games? They're promoting unemployment, and that's putting a very large and unfair burden on those who do work. Those with wealth are leaving Sweden as quickly as they can to get away from the high taxation. That leaves even more of the burden on the working class people who can't afford to move.

Actually, this is not entirely true. The Swedish national budget is quite good, and the economy is better off than in a long time and better than comparable countries... and "over taxation" is not a fact, it's an opinion... Swedes pay around 30% of their income in tax and VAT is 25%. The most pressing problen in Sweden as well as in other western European countries and Japan right now is the demographic gap, which will lead to high percentage of the population retired within ten years.

Countries I admire:
Japan for it's diligence and general sense of duty
Northern European countries for their progressive stand on human rights issues
Canada, same as above
South Africa for proving that one can start anew

ETA: there are lots of countries/regions I admire due to historical reasone, not least Greece and China

I admire New Zealand. It's green, somewhat isolationist, sort of neutral and they are left the hell alone by every other country. It's a prosperous, easygoing small country that's out of the mainstream and goes it's own way. From the perspective of someone living in the U.S. it seems like another world.

The only country on Earth that was 'enchanted' looking enough to be the location to film Lord of the Rings.

I think the way morality in Sweden is, most of the women, at least in my opinion, would be classed as "Used". Sweden is not known for morality in regards to sexuality, it seems a very permissive country. Just my thoughts though.

Where did you get this idea? Sweden is comparable to any other European country in this respect, neither more nor less "permissive". :mad:
This is such an outdated view of this country

Salazar's Portugal-

A grand nation all around, need I say more? They were run by the wonderful Antonio Salazar.

A great man indeed. (http://www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk/SPsalazar.htm) The last of the European dictators. :gundge:

They deserve admiration because they are in minority?!
That sounds like admiration just being handed out to those who have done nothing to earn it.
I really dont want to sound like a conceited chauvanistic pig, but what have those minorities accomplished, what has made them great?
Look at Britain, Germany, China, or even the USA and you see that they have left an indelible mark on the vast pages of human history.

Surely this makes them more worthy of admiration that indigenious people that still gather heat from camp fires...

Maybe I should have stated my point more clearly. My admiration goes to the indigenous cultures that have managed to endure and survive through incredible hardship and against the might of those who tried to exterminate them, culturally and, sometimes, physically. (I've spent a year in Australia, listened to Aboriginals tell of their experiences, read books by Aboriginal authors. Believe me, these people should be admired simply for still being here.)

In any case, I sense your perspective is not the same as mine. First, I'm not judging them by what they have 'accomplished', as you put it, in the wider world. Second, your comment about them them "still gathering heat from camp fires" is both grossly racist (what makes you think a modern way of life is superior?) and utterly ignorant (a vast majority of indigenous people in, say, Australia or New Zealand live in towns and cities like anyone else).

Oh, for those who have listed Rhodesia... You do know it no longer exists? :D

Finally, about Sweden... I happen to have met several Swedish girls, one of whom I still consider a friend. That generalisation about their sexuality is absurd and highly offensive. Their general behaviour is the same as you might find in any European country. Plus, those I've met were very nice people.

Tuvalu - Because I admire their courage. Thanks to us polluting in the west, the entire country is in danger of being submerged. So, they're all moving to New Zealand.


Woohoo! Someone else who voted for Tuvalu!


New Zealand - Because they have taken part in every UN peacekeeping mission ever, and are opening their doors to the Tuvalans.


Shouldn't that be 'Tuvaluans'? ;)

More seriously, Tuvalu is indeed a disaster waiting to happen. It's the epitomy of the helpless innocent who's going to be destroyed by the selfishness of the powerful industrialised countries. I hope very much we won't end up with an entire country wiped off the face of the Earth, but if it does come to that tragedy, I can only hope the world will start at last to think.

The saddest thing is, I'm pretty sure most people just won't give a damn.

USA - My home country and a wonderful place to live. Whether there's a democratic president or republican president I am still provided with a happy life here. The economy is strong and the military is strong. The country is large with many different types of places and people.

Germany - Without the World Wars, Germany would be one of the strongest nations in the world. Germany was extremely powerful before WW1 and they achieved that in only a small amount of time. In both wars, it took a group of strong nations allied together just to stop one nation. Since Germany's reunification, they have again become very powerful in a small amount of time.

Britain - This is an island nation which has been able to achieve a large amount of power. Many of its colonies have gained their independence, but Britain still plays a major role in world politics.

Canada - This country is extremely clean and when I visited, I didn't feel akward. The Canadian people are very kind and there are good freedoms. The country is also large and beautiful. The large city of Toronto was pleasant and wasn't overbearing.

United Arab Emirates - This nation is promoting a strong economy and freedom for its people. A project is underway there to construct the tallest building in the world and its people look to set a good example for the middle Eastern world.

Japan - Japan quickly went from having strong warriors who fought with a sword to a strong modern army. It became very powerful militarily. After WWII this military was limited so the Japanese focused on their economy which has become very strong. Japanese innovations are good for today's high tech world.

Switzerland - Throughout the twentieth century this has been Europe's safe haven by being neutral during the two world wars. It has this same quality today as its city of Geneva remains an important place for world affairs. I'm going there this summer and I'm looking foward to it because the countryside looks beautiful.

So, you are looking for a "suikerbossie"?
Suikerbos ek wil jou hê,
Suikerbos ek wil jou hê,
Wat sal jou mammie darvan sê?

:p Ah childhood in South Africa. And I'm SA Indian :cool:

Frankly, i cant admire most governments. Pick and chose almost any MAJOR one, and youve got a huge share of atrocities and crimes. The US is no exception- as a matter of fact, we've killed a shitload of innocent people. Indians, phillipinos, iraqis. We gave the taliban the guns they needed to surpress their people. We gave saddam the equipment he needed to persecute the kurds. We continue to be extremely racist.

Britain's been an asshole too. All those territories and peoples they divided up like playing pieces... They werent too kind to the old indians either. Theyre doing a bit better now, though.

Germany... ummm.... nazis. Yeah.

Chechnya? You mean the school bombing Chechnya?

Those are four ones ive seen alot so far.

But i guess nobody's perfect. Even the Vatican started wars of conquest and practiced virulent racism. So if i had to choose some favorites under penalty of death.....

1. Northern Europe..(pick one)- when has Sweden or Finland ever persecuted anybody? Low crime rates, no nukes. Plus extremely hot babes. Blond hair, blue eyes, anyone?
2. Israel- one tough little mofo. Hang in there, Jews!
3. Japan- got past being a total asshole in WWII to become an extremely hard working, clean, hard working, efficient, creative, hard working, powerhouse. Did I mention hard working?
4. Canada- just like America, only friendlier and less violent. And you can grow pot there!

I also like New Zealand and Australia.

Just my $.02

I think the way morality in Sweden is, most of the women, at least in my opinion, would be classed as "Used". Sweden is not known for morality in regards to sexuality, it seems a very permissive country. Just my thoughts though.

Your thoughts are not true, plus I would imagine quite offensive to the female portion of our population.

Your thoughts are not true, plus I would imagine quite offensive to the female portion of our population.


I hate Sweden, their government, and the fact most live in a liberal dream up there. I don't really care if I offend a Swedish woman, if they're going to act like whores, I'm going to let them know what the Gospel says they can expect, an eternity of hellfire and brimstone.


We don't beat around the bush about it, Calvinists will not lie to make you feel better. If you're somebody not believed to be Elect, or you're an Elect in danger of falling back into the pit of sin, Calvinist will tell you, because we care that much about our fellow Elect.

I hate Sweden, their government, and the fact most live in a liberal dream up there. I don't really care if I offend a Swedish woman, if they're going to act like whores, I'm going to let them know what the Gospel says they can expect, an eternity of hellfire and brimstone.


We don't beat around the bush about it, Calvinists will not lie to make you feel better. If you're somebody not believed to be Elect, or you're an Elect in danger of falling back into the pit of sin, Calvinist will tell you, because we care that much about our fellow Elect.

And may I ask where you live? I suspect it's a country without much contact with the outside world, as you clearly don't know much about anywhere else. I suspect, by your definition of liberal (I suggest you look up the meaning of the word in Europe) you are from USA.

I suspect, by your definition of liberal (I suggest you look up the meaning of the word in Europe) you are from USA.
Yay! Someone else who hates that usage because it stuffs up so much communication! It's hard to explain anything political when your terms of reference are different. :fluffle:

And may I ask where you live? I suspect it's a country without much contact with the outside world, as you clearly don't know much about anywhere else. I suspect, by your definition of liberal (I suggest you look up the meaning of the word in Europe) you are from USA.



The American midwest, in a small suburban setting. I was originally from a non-suburban setting, but my family packed up and moved in the mid 90s as the black takeover occurred.

The American midwest, in a small suburban setting. I was originally from a non-suburban setting, but my family packed up and moved in the mid 90s as the black takeover occurred.Cause we all know that "the Blacks" now control all the non-suburban midwest. :rolleyes:

I don't really care if I offend a Swedish woman, if they're going to act like whores, I'm going to let them know what the Gospel says they can expect, an eternity of hellfire and brimstone.


Everytime I think stupidity and narrow-mindedness must have a limit, someone pops up to prove the contrary.

You obviously have no clue what the hell you're talking about. Has it occurred to you that Swedish women are just like women (like people) anywhere? Repeating an absurd and offensive statement doesn't make it true. If I were to say to you suddenly, "You, sir, are a paedophile", it wouldn't make it true. Even if I said it twice. And what you're doing is worse, because you're making a generalisation based upon an absurdity.

Any generalisation that targets an ethnic or national group is, by definition, the product of a small, feeble mind, unable to work past simplistic pseudo-thoughts and to take in the complexities of the world. It must be very frightening for you in there. Or no, rather, it would be very frightening if you had the ability to perceive your own limitations... Actually, I assume you feel very secure.

Yay! Someone else who hates that usage because it stuffs up so much communication! It's hard to explain anything political when your terms of reference are different. :fluffle:

Heh. And I thought I was the only one. ;)

Please, everyone, if you're going to use that word, specify where you're speaking from. Here in Europe, "liberal" means "economically liberal", i.e. right-wing and capitalistic. In Australia, it's synonymous with "Conservative" (the Conservative Party is also called the Liberal Party).

Cause we all know that "the Blacks" now control all the non-suburban midwest. :rolleyes:


I was originally from a majority white city (95%+ white), surrounded entirely by black neighborhoods, if you could even call them that, ghettos, shantytowns, any name will suit, take your pick. They were trashy cities full of nameless peasants who could have died and never would we have known. There could have been a civil war there and we'd only have known if we heard the shots being fired. It was like a world apart where they lived.

Everytime I think stupidity and narrow-mindedness must have a limit, someone pops up to prove the contrary.

You obviously have no clue what the hell you're talking about. Has it occurred to you that Swedish women are just like women (like people) anywhere? Repeating an absurd and offensive statement doesn't make it true. If I were to say to you suddenly, "You, sir, are a paedophile", it wouldn't make it true. Even if I said it twice. And what you're doing is worse, because you're making a generalisation based upon an absurdity.

Any generalisation that targets an ethnic or national group is, by definition, the product of a small, feeble mind, unable to work past simplistic pseudo-thoughts and to take in the complexities of the world. It must be very frightening for you in there. Or no, rather, it would be very frightening if you had the ability to perceive your own limitations... Actually, I assume you feel very secure.

Great post there. :)
Ooh, and of course, all women who have premarital sex are whores, right? :rolleyes:

Below are the countries I most admire:

Switzerland - For their benevolent neutrality.

Britain - For fighting on the right side.

France - For french food and culture generally.

Great post there. :)
Ooh, and of course, all women who have premarital sex are whores, right? :rolleyes:
If it's free, they're just sluts.

It´s nice to have many supporters out there, defending the honour of Swedish women. I´m glad that someone is trying to erase the (former?) general opinion of Swedish women based on "the facts" from porn-movies of the 70´s. Thank you. :D

South Korea

After being under Japanese rule for some 35 years until 1945, and then having the Korean War break out on the peninsula from 1950 to 1953, one might think a country would take a long time recovering - but Korea did a magnificent job.
Its GDP now ranks 10th or 11th in the world..Samsung and Hyundai are very good too.
And from what I read on this site -> http://www.sq.4mg.com/NationIQ.htm
Koreans are supposed to be very smart. One more reason to like Korea. :)

Dominican Republic
Cool people..very good baseball players. The country looks like a paradise with its exotic beachs and everything.


United States
Such an interesting country...

Nestor Kirchner is one of the most left-wing presidents in Latin America and he has rejected many of the neo-liberal economic policies the USA is trying to enforce on the region. He also appears to be close to Chavez of Venezuala who is the most radical South American leader.

In regards to the economy it is absurd to say that Peronism had anything to do with the collapse a few years ago which was the result of 15 years of a fascist dictatorship and the extreme neo-liberal policies followed by former President Carlos Menem. Kirchner has been the first President to criticise the economic policies followed since 1976 and the progressive policies he is following have resulted in some economic improvements.

I probably should have mentioned Brazil and Lula is another of the new left-wing leaders of Latin America although his failure to implement some of the progressive reforms the Workers Party (PT) had promised has recently resulted in the resignation of two parties from the governing coalition.

On what grounds you say that Carlos Menem was a fascist dictator?

On what grounds you say that Carlos Menem was a fascist dictator?

Communists consider almost everyone who doesn't drop on their knees and worship Marxism-Leninism a 'fascist.'

I like Italy and canada

Italy has culture and sophistication

Canada is peacefull and have great landscape

I would have so Poland is one of the great countries that I admire. Maybe I am a bit biased since I am part Polish, but their History is so colourful, heroic, and one which is often overlooked. The Western World owes so much to Poland yet they don't know it. If it wasn't for Poland Europe would be Communist, Islamic (i don't mean that in a bad way whatsoever), part of the Mongolian Empire, and also would lack a great part of European culture. The Poles from the earliest stage of their history have been constantly threatened, yet they have developed a unique and flourishing culture. Poland was once the most powerful nation in Europe, it had one the first medeval Republics in Europe, it's Commonwealth streched from the Black sea to the Baltic, and it wanted to grow for the greater good, not for wealth or power. Poland is the only really successful country in fighting back the Mongols, it saved Europe from Ottoman conquest, and yet it was betrayed by all it's neighbours it had helped countless times, and disappeared entirely off the map of Europe. Yet the Poles managed to retain their culture, even when their country was cut in three, and they were one of the few countries to put up a resistance against the Nazis in world war two. While the Poles had cavalry and out of date troops they put up a heroic fight against the Nazis, and believe it or not, they held out longer than France did, even while France was being attacked from one side and Poland was attacked from three sides by two different enemies at once. They managed to fight off communism, and they were the ones who brought down the Soviet Union, they were the ones who were the true winners of the Cold war. While the USA may think they won it, it was Poland which actually caused Russia to collaspe. This is only a few of their achievments, but I do think Poland is and was the greatest nation to ever have existed, not because it conquered, not because it had the biggest Gun, but because of its vitality, its endurance, its culture, and the fact the whole of the Western World from the USA to Europe owe so much to it.

im admire:

1The Roman Empire-They conquered the known world and were a unstoppable military machine

2The Ancient Macedonians-they also conquered the known world before the romans and were led by one of the most famous leaders ever Alexander The Great

3The USA-Undeniable worlds superpower and most powerfull country in history

4Great Britian-Ruled over a massive empire for centuries and if it wasnt for them i doubt the US would have ever existed.

5The USSR- the soviets turned a barren, struggling country full of peasants into a industrialized and modern nation. they also turned it into one of the worlds superpowers

Funny, I rank nations low BECAUSE of things like nationalism. Nationalism is a pride in a piece of dirt, which leads to xenophobia and lots of chest beating. Nationilist countries tend to be warlike. What makes one piece of dirt any better then another piece of dirt. I don't hold loyalty to dirt. If my country starts sucking too badly, I'll move to another piece of dirt in a heartbeat. If America starts sucking too bad, but Brazil starts getting a lot better, I'm movin to Brazil. I see no reason why I should stay where it sucks if there's some place better. Right now, there isn't a place better then where I am, so I'll stay put for the time being.

This is a very sensible position to hold. Makes far more sense than limbic urges like mindless nationalism. Nationalism leads to wonderful things like world war II. If it were easier to move from one country to another without restrictions and tendency-toward-nationalism it would improve the ability to destroy bankrupt ideologies. I whole heartedly agree.

Countries I admire are those that keep personal issues personal and have a nice balance between individual citizens ability to affect change against those with resources to resist change.

I admire countries for their cultural/historical, economic and military strength. The following is a list of nations that I admire (in no particular order) with a short description detailing my reasons:

USA:

The world's greatest an only superpower. America is the absolute forefront of science and technology, as well as political dominance and military power. It's education system may churn out millions of redneck drones but it's policies have certainly attracted some of the world's best and brightest to research science and develop new technologies (for both defense and civilian sectors). America's economy (despite the current recession) is still second to none. The current president may be a dickhead but it's democracy has been admired globally. With a nuclear arsenal matched only by Russia, America is surely capable of destroying this planet in its rage. Nations of the Asia Pacific region will always be grateful of America; if it was not for the two A-bombs, most of the world will be speaking Jap today.

What do you have against the Japanese? Or are you just blindly racist, for no real reason? And if the world were speaking Japanese, do oyu think you'd notice the difference anyway? [you yourself would be speaking Japanese, and you'd probably be proud of it...]

I admire;

Holland
Norway
France
Germany
Canada

What do you have against the Japanese? Or are you just blindly racist, for no real reason? And if the world were speaking Japanese, do oyu think you'd notice the difference anyway? [you yourself would be speaking Japanese, and you'd probably be proud of it...]

Actually on his issue w/ the 2 nuclear bombs dropped on Japan, the data is factually inaccurate when it comes to Japans capabilities at that time. Japan was on the verge of defeat. They were not prepared to fight to the last man and woman on the island. Tokyo had already been carpet bombed to dust. Japanese were already preparing to surrender. The 2 nuclear bombs dropped effectively did nothing. The damage had already been done.

Strategically, the only thing that really makes sense for their use was a sort of back handed warning sign to the USSR. To say that using the weapons was morally questionable is an enormous understatement.

I admire;

Holland
Norway
France
Germany
Canada

Agreed, but I would probably drop france from the list. Their government system and state infrastructure is too chaotic and haphazard. Consider last summer's heat wave and the complete incapability of their health infrastructure to do ANYTHING useful about it.

Netherlands, Germany, Norway, and Sweden are pretty high on my list. Canada dropped off my list after I had the worst pizza in my life on a trip to whistler last weekend...

A great man indeed. The last of the European dictators. :gundge:

I wouldn't be too sure about that my friend. Vladamir Putin is already leaning in that direction so i don't think we've seen the end of totalitarianism.

Personally I admire Switzerland (remained neutral through 2 world wars which practically surounded it, good health care, low crime rate, great landsape etc)

United Kingdom (I live here, we retain our individuality in a world which is increasingly dominated by American and other ideals, dont want to say much else about the UK as it would probably seem too biased)

Most European countries (Home of culture in my opinion, with the EU and each other they create the biggest trading block in the world and therefore the most powerful economy. More integration in the EU would create a superpower to rival the USA but may also take away the culture which we all love so well)

USA (Not my favourite country i have to admit, but the most powerful and innovative at the moment. Deserves respect for that but i do dissagree with the almost Imperialistic conquests of Mr Bush and his failure to join the Kyoto Agreement which I think is just arrogant and narrow minded.)


The above are just a few of the countries which i respect and admire, countries such as Canada, Japan, etc also rank high on my list.

USA (Not my favourite country i have to admit, but the most powerful and innovative at the moment. Deserves respect for that but i do dissagree with the almost Imperialistic conquests of Mr Bush and his failure to join the Kyoto Agreement which I think is just arrogant and narrow minded.)

I'm glad the USA is on your list.

However: please recall that Kyoto failed in the US Senate 95-0 under President Clinton. Even if Bush *did* sign it, there is an excellent chance it wouldn't go through anyway. (Like the League of Nations didn't.)

I obviously admire our country, USA, but im not going sound like a broken record.

I really love Norway. I spent a week there a few years ago and my aunt and uncle have lived there. I love it they love it. The people are very nice there and they seem to have my style of politics. The obviously downside is the cost of living. Oslo is one of the most expensive cities to live in, but just spending the time there I think I can overlook that.

My aunt while there took me too their "ghetto" which living in Milwaukee seemed like a great neighorhood. I saw nothing wrong there, I cant see anything wrong with the country honestly. The winters though might be hard to live in, but it comes around in the summer.

USA-Because we kick ass

Canada-Because they kick ass

England-Because Douglas Adams is from there

Ireland-My ancestral homeland!

Denmark-My other ancestral homeland! And they invented LEGO's

France-Because they helped us kick the crap out of the Brits in the 1700's

Luxembourg-Honestly, how can you not love Luxembourg?

USA (Not my favourite country i have to admit, but the most powerful and innovative at the moment. Deserves respect for that but i do dissagree with the almost Imperialistic conquests of Mr Bush and his failure to join the Kyoto Agreement which I think is just arrogant and narrow minded.)





Kyoto is a nightmare, it's just globalist control of American resources, resources that ought to really be controlled by the American people, or by a group who has the best interests of the American people, in mind.

Kyoto is a nightmare, it's just globalist control of American resources, resources that ought to really be controlled by the American people, or by a group who has the best interests of the American people, in mind.

I see your point but I think any treaty that has anything to do with enviromental issues like Kyoto its not the interests of just one country its the interests of the world because pollution knows no boundries and in this case greenhouse gases know no boundry.

I admire the Sultanate of Oman. It's a desert country, and here in the capital city, it gets to be about 50+ degrees Celsius, but up north in Salalah it's not so bad. It can actually be a beautiful country, and the people (as in the Arabs, not the swarm of expats drawn by the oil industry) are just wonderful. I'd rather hang out with a bunch of Bedouin and eat goat heart (which is DELICIOUS) than with most westerners. The ruler is pretty cool too. He's certainly better than his iron-fist father, and Omanis love him. He's done wonders with the country in a very short time. Eg. while his father was in power, there was a grand total of ONE paved road in the whole country. The press is anything but free, which bugs me, and they seem to be buying too much into Westernization here, which bugs me, but otherwise it's not so bad. :cool:

I admire Israel for its amazing advances and develpment in face of adversity. Also because whats they have managed in so short a time would be a gret example to my own country Ireland,as our histories are quite similar in some ways.

Well said Sankraland!!! Not often some one has good fact based arguments to beat that anti semitic Jewish Cabal crap senseless!!!

1. United States. The first nation founded on reason and ideals instead of tribal feuds and a king's ambition. Truly a nation of hard-working and optimistic people, Americans coined the phrase "to make money"--that pretty much sums up the greatness of this nation.

2. Australia. One of the Crown Jewels of the west, if you will. Wonderful people.

3. Rome. No, it doesn't exist anymore, but it's still admirable. Well, at least before the dictators took power. Established the ideals of a true republic, a model for most later countries.

4. France. For their help in the 18th century. Without them, the United States wouldn't be. Some say the favor's been more than returned, but theirs is a favor that can never be repaid.

5. Iraq. What can one say of a nation of people such as the Iraqis? We don't get those numbers in voter turnout here, and we don't have people trying to kill us.

America because it takes shit and it gives shit :D
Also because we have some of the best cities in the world.Miami,LA,New York,Hollywood,Las Vegas etc.
Our Business motto is "Money Money Money!"
The US made the UN and The US is the last remaining Superpower of the world today

Italy because of its past.The Roman Empire,the best empire the history of the world.Also because of their amazing buildings and art.

Cuba because they take no shit at ALL! :D

Turkey
Azerbaijan
Kazakhstan
Uzbekistan
Turkmenistan
Tajikistan
Kyrgyzistan
Chechnya
East Turkistan
Palestine
Pakistan
Dagestan
Meshetia
...

Poland: people have a great happiness and zest for life even after Communist oppression, religous even after Communist oppression, great food


My native country thanks you.