NationStates Jolt Archive


Stop America Bashing

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Neb Tsenks
18-09-2006, 02:21
Seriously that's how ever god damn thread ends on this forum. Like we're the source the all the worlds problems. I'm tired of taking heat for my governments string of shitty descisions, and then being stereotyped accordingly. The world sees my country as a bunch of fat ignorant assholes, with to much money and time.Meanwhile America's citizen are for the most part like everyone else. I'm sure all of your countries governments have fucked up numerous times aswell, stop complaining, it's not like we're a dictorship or terrorist group. We're more of the asshole friend that everyone talks about about behind their backs :)
The Nazz
18-09-2006, 02:23
Don't confuse Bush-bashing with America-bashing.
WangWee
18-09-2006, 02:25
Stop America Bashing

Make me, fat boy. :)
Liberated New Ireland
18-09-2006, 02:26
AMERICA SUCKS!!!
CthulhuFhtagn
18-09-2006, 02:27
Pretty much the only time I see countries getting bashed is when someone makes a thread to complain about countries getting bashed.
Dobbsworld
18-09-2006, 02:28
Just so long as I don't end up having to spell it "_ian" again.
Utracia
18-09-2006, 02:28
At the moment the people leading our country suck and I am all for bashing them. The people however are, for the most part anyway, great.
Pyotr
18-09-2006, 02:29
AMERICA SUCKS!!!

INDEED
R0cka
18-09-2006, 02:30
Seriously that's how ever god damn thread ends on this forum. Like we're the source the all the worlds problems. I'm tired of taking heat for my governments string of shitty descisions, and then being stereotyped accordingly. The world sees my country as a bunch of fat ignorant assholes, with to much money and time.Meanwhile America's citizen are for the most part like everyone else. I'm sure all of your countries governments have fucked up numerous times aswell, stop complaining, it's not like we're a dictorship or terrorist group. We're more of the asshole friend that everyone talks about about behind their backs :)

Why?

I like it when they do.

It proves we're number 1.
Dobbsworld
18-09-2006, 02:30
AMERICA SUCKS!!!

INDEED

I think it prefers nibbling & licking, though.
New Granada
18-09-2006, 02:31
Wahhhh wahhhh boo hooo hooooo waaaaahhh

STOP WHINING
STOP WHINING
STOP WHINING
STOP WHINING
Heculisis
18-09-2006, 02:31
anytime a country is in power, which america is right now, it is liable to have a number of critics of its actions and goals as well as the effectiveness in which they achieve them. Whether these criticisms are well founded I'll leave up to you.
Utracia
18-09-2006, 02:33
I hate the color red.
R0cka
18-09-2006, 02:34
Don't confuse Bush-bashing with America-bashing.


Do you really think it will change if a democrat is elected in '08?
Call to power
18-09-2006, 02:34
the day American exceptionalism ends is the day I stop America bashing
Kroisistan
18-09-2006, 02:35
http://www.jewishworldreview.com/cols2/flag.burning.jpg

Freedom of speech, baby.
Soheran
18-09-2006, 02:36
Not another excuse for the resident jingoists to betray their irrational tribalist tendencies with indignation at anyone who might question the sacred Motherland.

What, precisely, constitutes "America bashing"? Where is it present? What is wrong with it?
Utracia
18-09-2006, 02:37
http://www.jewishworldreview.com/cols2/flag.burning.jpg

Freedom of speech, baby.

To think we almost banned that. :)
Pyotr
18-09-2006, 02:37
http://www.jewishworldreview.com/cols2/flag.burning.jpg

Freedom of speech, baby.

thats freedom of expression/freedom of assembly ,you phail at reading the constitution

:D
Call to power
18-09-2006, 02:37
http://www.jewishworldreview.com/cols2/flag.burning.jpg

The weird thing is you think people would of learnt by now to make flags inflammable
Sarkhaan
18-09-2006, 02:38
the day American exceptionalism ends is the day I stop America bashing

depends...will said democrat be an asshat to the rest of the world, or no?
Free Soviets
18-09-2006, 02:39
the day American exceptionalism ends is the day I stop America bashing

not a bad call at all
Upper Botswavia
18-09-2006, 02:39
Seriously that's how ever god damn thread ends on this forum. Like we're the source the all the worlds problems. I'm tired of taking heat for my governments string of shitty descisions, and then being stereotyped accordingly. The world sees my country as a bunch of fat ignorant assholes, with to much money and time.Meanwhile America's citizen are for the most part like everyone else. I'm sure all of your countries governments have fucked up numerous times aswell, stop complaining, it's not like we're a dictorship or terrorist group. We're more of the asshole friend that everyone talks about about behind their backs :)


Everybody sees us that way because sometimes we are.

Yes, America as a country and Americans as individuals sometimes do some wonderful things. But you have to admit that we also sometimes do some pretty awful things. So when we do, people are going to (and SHOULD) call us on it. WE should call us on it. And, often, around here, we do get called on it.

Sometimes it is bashing, sometimes not. But take it in stride. Don't be personally offended everytime someone says something you don't like, or you will give yourself an ulcer. Rather, if they are bashing and wrong about it, try to point it out in a reasonable fashion, as folks will be more inclined to listen to that than a "stop calling us names!!!" rant. If they are right, consider saying "yes, that was bad, but here is where we are doing better."
Free Soviets
18-09-2006, 02:41
Don't confuse Bush-bashing with America-bashing.

though in so far as the american public hasn't yet seen fit to chase the bastard out of the whitehouse with torches and pitchforks, they can't escape all blame even on that front.
Chellis
18-09-2006, 02:41
The weird thing is you think people would of learnt by now to make flags inflammable

Nothing is inflammable, my friend. Nothing at all.
Liberated New Ireland
18-09-2006, 02:41
I hate the color red.
DOES THIS WORK BETTER FOR YOU?!?!?!?!
http://www.jewishworldreview.com/cols2/flag.burning.jpg

Freedom of speech, baby.

My friend burned a flag once, and took a picture of it... in the picture, the flames look like a silhouette of the Statue of Liberty. It was really cool...
Utracia
18-09-2006, 02:42
depends...will said democrat be an asshat to the rest of the world, or no?

The rest of the world was practically begging us to elect Kerry weren't they?
CthulhuFhtagn
18-09-2006, 02:42
Do you really think it will change if a democrat is elected in '08?

Yes. Look at Clinton. The international community liked him. Compare that to Bush, has practically pissed in the international community's face.
New Xero Seven
18-09-2006, 02:43
Yay U.S.A.! w00t! w00t!

Eww Bush! bARf! bARf!
Free Soviets
18-09-2006, 02:43
What, precisely, constitutes "America bashing"?

anything i don't like being said somewhere.

What is wrong with it?

the fact that i don't like it. obviously.
R0cka
18-09-2006, 02:43
The weird thing is you think people would of learnt by now to make flags inflammable

They're already inflammable.
UpwardThrust
18-09-2006, 02:44
Pretty much the only time I see countries getting bashed is when someone makes a thread to complain about countries getting bashed.

Quoted for truth
Free Soviets
18-09-2006, 02:45
They're already inflammable.

these colors don't run. but they can be used to roast marshmellows.
Upper Botswavia
18-09-2006, 02:45
The weird thing is you think people would of learnt by now to make flags inflammable

The one in the picture is inflammable. Perhaps you meant non-flammable? And if they did make them, the people who wanted to burn flags wouldn't buy the non-flammable kind anyway, so it would really be a wash.

:p
Utracia
18-09-2006, 02:46
DOES THIS WORK BETTER FOR YOU?!?!?!?!

:fluffle:

Perfect.
R0cka
18-09-2006, 02:48
Yes. Look at Clinton. The international community liked him. Compare that to Bush, has practically pissed in the international community's face.

I don't think a new paint job will fix things.

The only benefit of a democrat president would be that they could perhaps mend fences with Venezuela.
Silliopolous
18-09-2006, 02:50
Seriously that's how ever god damn thread ends on this forum. Like we're the source the all the worlds problems. I'm tired of taking heat for my governments string of shitty descisions, and then being stereotyped accordingly. The world sees my country as a bunch of fat ignorant assholes, with to much money and time.Meanwhile America's citizen are for the most part like everyone else. I'm sure all of your countries governments have fucked up numerous times aswell, stop complaining, it's not like we're a dictorship or terrorist group. We're more of the asshole friend that everyone talks about about behind their backs :)



Aparently not given that you are complaining about people talking about you to your face......

:p
CthulhuFhtagn
18-09-2006, 02:51
I don't think a new paint job will fix things.

The only benefit of a democrat president would be that they could perhaps mend fences with Venezuela.

And not deny the existence of global warming. And not oppose stem-cell research. And not support teaching of creationism in science classes. And not appoint John Bolton to the U.N. And pretty much not do the things that convinced the rest of the world that Bush and, by extension, the people who elected him, were about as intelligent as a turnip.

Oh, right. And be able to pronounce what results when the big red button is pressed.
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 02:54
The weird thing is you think people would of learnt by now to make flags inflammable

(Assuming you meant non-flammable)

Wouldn't work: the standard official way of decomissioning American flags is by conflagration.
Sarkhaan
18-09-2006, 02:54
were about as intelligent as a turnip.


actually, we just got in the most recent results. the turnip is up 10 points.
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 02:55
Nothing is inflammable, my friend. Nothing at all.

Nothing is likely to catch fire? Under what ass-backwards physical laws do you live?
Utracia
18-09-2006, 02:56
(Assuming you meant non-flammable)

Wouldn't work: the standard official way of decomissioning American flags is by conflagration.

But you burn them out of love not out of hating America. ;)
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 02:57
And not deny the existence of global warming.

Flag-burning: a significant contribution to global warming? Discuss.
Sarkhaan
18-09-2006, 02:58
But you burn them out of love not out of hating America. ;)

out of love?
*ponders*

*shudders*...rug burn:eek:
WangWee
18-09-2006, 03:01
But you burn them out of love not out of hating America. ;)

Why would the americans care? USA flags are an important export to Iran.
Neb Tsenks
18-09-2006, 03:02
Not another excuse for the resident jingoists to betray their irrational tribalist tendencies with indignation at anyone who might question the sacred Motherland.

In layman's terms "Look how fucking smart I am!"

What, precisely, constitutes "America bashing"? Where is it present? What is wrong with it?

Quotes:


Joke aside i am from sweden myself.
Define cultured.
Do you mean cultured like in cities and law and so on?
In any case i say The US.
I dont find countries fighting illegal wars,
Accusing other countries for being wussies for not sending out hundreds of thousands of their soldiers to die for no special reason,
Help dictators to come to power just to Fight them 10 years later
Lock people away for 60 years in prison.
I do not find this cultured...
If you think it is cultured, Then you must be crazy.

Regarding someone saying USA had a more distinctive culture than Western Europe (I don't agree with it that statement)
Like eating turkey on the day when they celebrate their genocide of native Americans? What culture?

Things that are like the ladder bases actions of completely different generations and applies them to the people(If you apply this stereotype, than you probabley still think all Germans are Nazis)

or

The First, applying stereotypes to the people based on the governments actions.
WangWee
18-09-2006, 03:07
Things that are like the latter base (If you apply this stereotype than you probabley still thinks all Germans are Nazis)

or

The First applying stereotypes to the people based on the governments actions.

Dude, that swede even kicks your ass at english language skills.
Utracia
18-09-2006, 03:07
out of love?
*ponders*

*shudders*...rug burn:eek:

What better way to put an old flag to its grave then burning it to ash? The emotion that wells up! Now, burning one in a protest, that is hateful and wrong according to some. It is all about your state of mind when you burn the American flag. Perhaps we must take an old tattered flag and burn it in front of a courthouse when another minority is railroaded. It would give the flag a death that serves a good cause. :)
Sarkhaan
18-09-2006, 03:10
What better way to put an old flag to its grave then burning it to ash? The emotion that wells up! Now, burning one in a protest, that is hateful and wrong according to some. It is all about your state of mind when you burn the American flag. Perhaps we must take an old tattered flag and burn it in front of a courthouse when another minority is railroaded. It would give the flag a death that serves a good cause. :)
I ike the way you think. Hit up Boston on Jan 8th. I have jury duty that day, so I'll bring the marsmallows.
Heculisis
18-09-2006, 03:10
Seriously that's how ever god damn thread ends on this forum. Like we're the source the all the worlds problems. I'm tired of taking heat for my governments string of shitty descisions, and then being stereotyped accordingly. The world sees my country as a bunch of fat ignorant assholes, with to much money and time.Meanwhile America's citizen are for the most part like everyone else. I'm sure all of your countries governments have fucked up numerous times aswell, stop complaining, it's not like we're a dictorship or terrorist group. We're more of the asshole friend that everyone talks about about behind their backs :)
Dude, thats what makes america so great. We can bash it without getting tortured or mutilated. So basically when people bash america they're saying that they love it so much that they're willing to advertise their rights as an american citizen.
WangWee
18-09-2006, 03:13
Dude, thats what makes america so great. We can bash it without getting tortured or mutilated. So basically when people bash america they're saying that they love it so much that they're willing to advertise their rights as an american citizen.

Yeah, you're right.

I'm being tortured up here in nazi-communist-terrorist-land as we speak.
Neb Tsenks
18-09-2006, 03:13
Yeah, you're right.

I'm being tortured as we speak.

It's true, I heard it on the news.
Bobslovakia 2
18-09-2006, 03:17
Dude, thats what makes america so great. We can bash it without getting tortured or mutilated. So basically when people bash america they're saying that they love it so much that they're willing to advertise their rights as an american citizen.

See there is nothing wrong with Americans bashing America. We live here!!! We actually know how we are. Thus we can criticize based on actual knowledge rather than stereotypes or that one asshole from America that they've met. Americans (At least not here) don't go around bashing every other country simply based on stereotypes (If they do, they're either trolls or are joking like all the French jokes I like to make). Americans can also bash America because through it all we still love our goddamn, arrogant, fatass, ignorant country. To all you people who bash America without haven't any idea what the hell you're talking about. I raise a one-fingered salute to you all :upyours: . Thank you and goodnight.
WangWee
18-09-2006, 03:18
It's true, I heard it on the news.

Is it true that all the news are printed on Mcdonalds place mats over there?
Utracia
18-09-2006, 03:19
I ike the way you think. Hit up Boston on Jan 8th. I have jury duty that day, so I'll bring the marsmallows.

Heh. If you are on the jury I don't think my services will be required. :)
Soheran
18-09-2006, 03:19
In layman's terms "Look how fucking smart I am!"

Why do you say so? Knowing what "tribalist" and "jingoist" mean is hardly something reserved for "fucking smart" people.

Things that are like the latter base actions of completely different generations and apply them to the people(If you apply this stereotype than you probabley still think all Germans are Nazis)

You mean, Americans today don't celebrate Thanksgiving? And Thanksgiving isn't a major part of the national mythology that ignores the genocide of the natives and instead glorifies the invaders?

The First applying stereotypes to the people based on the governments actions.

The kind of cultural attitudes that permit the government to commit such atrocities is a perfectly legitimate area of criticism.
Neb Tsenks
18-09-2006, 03:21
See there is nothing wrong with Americans bashing America. We live here!!! We actually know how we are. Thus we can criticize based on actual knowledge rather than stereotypes or that one asshole from America that they've met. Americans (At least not here) don't go around bashing every other country simply based on stereotypes (If they do, they're either trolls or are joking like all the French jokes I like to make). Americans can also bash America because through it all we still love our goddamn, arrogant, fatass, ignorant country. To all you people who bash America without haven't any idea what the hell you're talking about. I raise a one-fingered salute to you all :upyours: . Thank you and goodnight.

Exactly what I'm talking about.
Sarkhaan
18-09-2006, 03:21
Yeah, you're right.

I'm being tortured up here in nazi-communist-terrorist-land as we speak.some people like it better that way

See there is nothing wrong with Americans bashing America. We live here!!! We actually know how we are. Thus we can criticize based on actual knowledge rather than stereotypes or that one asshole from America that they've met. Americans (At least not here) don't go around bashing every other country simply based on stereotypes (If they do, they're either trolls or are joking like all the French jokes I like to make). Americans can also bash America because through it all we still love our goddamn, arrogant, fatass, ignorant country. To all you people who bash America without haven't any idea what the hell you're talking about. I raise a one-fingered salute to you all :upyours: . Thank you and goodnight.
So they can't read? And watch the news? and be informed? I'm comfortable talking about England and Sweden because I've read up on them. Amazingly, every country is subject to international criticism. Only Americans seem to think that we deserve to be exempt.
Sarkhaan
18-09-2006, 03:23
Heh. If you are on the jury I don't think my services will be required. :)

haha, well, thank you...but I'm looking to not have to serve (sadly, if I'm chosen, then I have to serve while I have classes, which will end up with many many problems)
Utracia
18-09-2006, 03:26
haha, well, thank you...but I'm looking to not have to serve (sadly, if I'm chosen, then I have to serve while I have classes, which will end up with many many problems)

Well that is the thing about jury duty, anyone but any idiot can get out of it if they want to. It results in you being judged by fellow citizens who aren't exactly the brightest available. But I must say that missing class is certainly an acceptable excuse. If not, hopefully you will get something quick.
Im a ninja
18-09-2006, 03:30
Is it true that all the news are printed on Mcdonalds place mats over there?
I assume you are joking, but just in case, it is most certainly not true.
Neb Tsenks
18-09-2006, 03:31
Why do you say so? Knowing what "tribalist" and "jingoist" mean is hardly something reserved for "fucking smart" people.
No, but they are that and "indignation" aren't really everyday words, I've noticed people that slip in vocabulary words into their conversations are attempting to appear smarter than who they are talking to.


You mean, Americans today don't celebrate Thanksgiving? And Thanksgiving isn't a major part of the national mythology that ignores the genocide of the natives and instead glorifies the invaders?
It doesn't glorify invaders, it glorifies some of the first settlers' hard work, that would later create our nation. Glorifying invaders would be more like "Wounded Knee Memorial Day".



The kind of cultural attitudes that permit the government to commit such atrocities is a perfectly legitimate area of criticism.
Not really, otherwise my nations wouldn't be at 40% right now, he'd have majority support, his all time low was in the 30's and people around the nation will agree he screws up in a lot of descisions.
Sarkhaan
18-09-2006, 03:34
Well that is the thing about jury duty, anyone but any idiot can get out of it if they want to. It results in you being judged by fellow citizens who aren't exactly the brightest available. But I must say that missing class is certainly an acceptable excuse. If not, hopefully you will get something quick.

the only problem with the student excuse is that Boston has specific laws that say students can be called despite not being residents of the city. Its a stupid law, and it screws us over, but hey, what can we do?

If all else fails, "my grandfather was a cop. I believe that everyone who is arrested is guilty"

or hope for a medical case...
East of Eden is Nod
18-09-2006, 03:40
Seriously that's how ever god damn thread ends on this forum. Like we're the source the all the worlds problems. I'm tired of taking heat for my governments string of shitty descisions, and then being stereotyped accordingly. The world sees my country as a bunch of fat ignorant assholes, with to much money and time.Meanwhile America's citizen are for the most part like everyone else. I'm sure all of your countries governments have fucked up numerous times aswell, stop complaining, it's not like we're a dictorship or terrorist group. We're more of the asshole friend that everyone talks about about behind their backs :)

Well, face it, you're the source of almost all the world's problems.
"americanization" is now the universally used term to refer to bad developments in society, economy, entertainment, etc. Within the last 40 years the USAmerican credibility has dropped to almost zero and Bush took away the rest. Even though the world still respects (or rather fears) the US military and economic power nobody puts any trust in the US or its people any more. The divide between the few rich and poor masses as well as between the few educated and the dumbass masses (including all those rediculously religious folks) is too obvious to the world to predict any positive future for the US.
.
WangWee
18-09-2006, 03:41
I assume you are joking, but just in case, it is most certainly not true.

Linky (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarcasm)

And I'll assume you're not a real ninja. :)
Im a ninja
18-09-2006, 03:42
So they can't read? And watch the news? and be informed? I'm comfortable talking about England and Sweden because I've read up on them. Amazingly, every country is subject to international criticism. Only Americans seem to think that we deserve to be exempt.
I actully critize other countries, I don't bash them based on steroytyped. People who say, "America is Imperalisitic becuase........." is a lot different than OMFG AMERICANS ARE A$$HOLES. Critize, don't bash.
Dobbsworld
18-09-2006, 03:45
I actully critize other countries, I don't bash them based on steroytyped. People who say, "America is Imperalisitic becuase........." is a lot different than OMFG AMERICANS ARE A$$HOLES. Critize, don't bash.

Are you secretly Sacha Baron Cohen on a lark?
Soheran
18-09-2006, 03:45
No, but they are that and "indignation" aren't really everyday words, I've noticed people that slip in vocabulary words into their conversations are attempting to appear smarter than who they are talking to.

Except that the words in this case were the best fit for the situation.

It doesn't glorify invaders, it glorifies some of the first settlers' hard work, that would later create our nation.

They were not the "first settlers." And the mythology about them is pretty much all nonsense.

The point, however, is that Thankgiving - like the glorification of Christopher Columbus - is part of the national mythology that glorifies the "settlement" of the "New World" without acknowledging the immense devastation it brought.

Not really, otherwise my nations wouldn't be at 40% right now, he'd have majority support, his all time low was in the 30's and people around the nation will agree he screws up in a lot of descisions.

Good to know that the post wasn't just talking about Bush, isn't it?

And Free Soviets' earlier comment is quite pertinent:

though in so far as the american public hasn't yet seen fit to chase the bastard out of the whitehouse with torches and pitchforks, they can't escape all blame even on that front.
East of Eden is Nod
18-09-2006, 03:48
I actully critize other countries, I don't bash them based on steroytyped. People who say, "America is Imperalisitic becuase........." is a lot different than OMFG AMERICANS ARE A$$HOLES. Critize, don't bash.

You cannot even write proper English, so why should anyone assume that your assumptions are of any better quality?

And the reason why people around the world bash US-Americans is the fact that they are already past the stage of criticism. And the reason for that is that US-Americans have never listened to any criticism.
Neb Tsenks
18-09-2006, 03:49
Well, face it, you're the source of almost all the world's problems.
"americanization" is now the universally used term to refer to bad developments in society, economy, entertainment, etc. Within the last 40 years the USAmerican credibility has dropped to almost zero and Bush took away the rest. Even though the world still respects (or rather fears) the US military and economic power nobody puts any trust in the US or its people any more. The divide between the few rich and poor masses as well as between the few educated and the dumbass masses (including all those rediculously religious folks) is too obvious to the world to predict any positive future for the US.
.

That's true, I don't think we've hit our decline yet, but as of right now America's screwing up. And for the record this kind of post the distinction of a criticism and bashing.
Congo--Kinshasa
18-09-2006, 03:50
And Free Soviets' earlier comment is quite pertinent:

I don't see how behaving like animals will solve anything.
Gatren
18-09-2006, 03:50
Seriously that's how ever god damn thread ends on this forum. Like we're the source the all the worlds problems. I'm tired of taking heat for my governments string of shitty descisions, and then being stereotyped accordingly. The world sees my country as a bunch of fat ignorant assholes, with to much money and time.Meanwhile America's citizen are for the most part like everyone else. I'm sure all of your countries governments have fucked up numerous times aswell, stop complaining, it's not like we're a dictorship or terrorist group. We're more of the asshole friend that everyone talks about about behind their backs :)

This might be out on a limb here. But asking people to stop America/Bush bashing in that manner.. might not get the results your hoping for.
Sarkhaan
18-09-2006, 03:51
I actully critize other countries, I don't bash them based on steroytyped. People who say, "America is Imperalisitic becuase........." is a lot different than OMFG AMERICANS ARE A$$HOLES. Critize, don't bash.

I've seen very few people who actually do the "American bashing" thing. And those who do are generally dismissed very quickly.
Soheran
18-09-2006, 03:55
I don't see how behaving like animals will solve anything.

Deposing statist butchers (hell, deposing oppressors of any kind) is the pinnacle of humanity.
Congo--Kinshasa
18-09-2006, 03:58
Deposing statist butchers (hell, deposing oppressors of any kind) is the pinnacle of humanity.

I agree, but resorting to savagery need not be necessary. Hell, look at Gandhi, MLK, etc.
Soheran
18-09-2006, 04:13
I agree, but resorting to savagery need not be necessary. Hell, look at Gandhi, MLK, etc.

So you'd rather we non-violently chase him out of the White House? I can go with that.
Neb Tsenks
18-09-2006, 04:15
Except that the words in this case were the best fit for the situation. Again not really, I could've said:
"But is indignation, really part of the vernacular of the common American? I have noticed people will slip in high-brow words to appear more ingenious to the subject you they are talking to."
But that wouldn't be the way people talk would it?


They were not the "first settlers." And the mythology about them is pretty much all nonsense.

The point, however, is that Thankgiving - like the glorification of Christopher Columbus - is part of the national mythology that glorifies the "settlement" of the "New World" without acknowledging the immense devastation it brought.
Plymouth itself never really brought devestation, and no American you'll ever meet "went out and killed a bunch of indians", and if you really want to get into it's history, it was never really about Plymouth to begin with it was about victory against the British at Saratoga.



Good to know that the post wasn't just talking about Bush, isn't it?
It's just an example, I've never heard a foreigner complain about the governs of New York State. But I've heard plenty criticise the Bush Administration.
Congo--Kinshasa
18-09-2006, 04:16
So you'd rather we non-violently chase him out of the White House? I can go with that.

Ideally, a bloodless military coup would depose him, but:

A) That's not feasible or likely
B) Military juntas rarely return to the barracks after overthrowing governments
Pyotr
18-09-2006, 04:20
Plymouth itself never really brought devestation, and no American you'll ever meet "went out and killed a bunch of indians", and if you really want to get into it's history, it was never really about Plymouth to begin with it was about victory against the British at Saratoga.


Custer, Andrew Jackson

both killed untold amounts of natives.

Or is wounded knee just a myth?
Neb Tsenks
18-09-2006, 04:25
Custer, Andrew Jackson

both killed untold amounts of natives.

Or is wounded knee just a myth?

No american YOU'LL MEET, I even brought up Wounded Knee before as slaughter of Native Americans, I'm saying that the current generation of Americans are not responsible for what happened way back when.
Pyotr
18-09-2006, 04:27
No american YOU'LL MEET, I even brought up Wounded Knee before as slaughter of Native Americans, I'm saying that the current generation of Americans are not responsible for what happened way back when.

correct.
The Black Forrest
18-09-2006, 04:29
though in so far as the american public hasn't yet seen fit to chase the bastard out of the whitehouse with torches and pitchforks, they can't escape all blame even on that front.

58 million tried.

The problem with the setup is the fact there is a built in end in sight.

It's much easier to say "Just ride the storm for 4 years and he will be gone"

The one thing I would like changed are these controlled debates. Get rid of them. No question should be off the table.

The shrub would never have been elected if he had to think on his feet in an open debate.
Soheran
18-09-2006, 04:31
Again not really, I could've said:
"But is indignation, really part of the vernacular of the common American? I have noticed people will slip in high-brow words to appear more ingenious to the subject you they are talking to."

I have no problem with the first sentence. Your usage of "ingenious" in the second sentence is out of place, however.

But that wouldn't be the way people talk would it?

So what words should have replaced "tribalist", "jingoist", and "indignation"?

Plymouth itself never really brought devestation, and no American you'll ever meet "went out and killed a bunch of indians",

But the point is that our culture ignores this ugly aspect of our history; not because it ignores our history in general, but because it distorts it.

and if you really want to get into it's history, it was never really about Plymouth to begin with it was about victory against the British at Saratoga.

What does this have to do with anything?

It's just an example, I've never heard a foreigner complain about the governs of New York State. But I've heard plenty criticise the Bush Administration.

No, the post you quoted wasn't just criticizing Bush.
The Black Forrest
18-09-2006, 04:32
these colors don't run. but they can be used to roast marshmellows.

Nah The red dye gives me heart burn.
Congo--Kinshasa
18-09-2006, 04:34
The shrub would never have been elected if he had to think on his feet in an open debate.

Hell, I'd rather have an actual shrub for my prez than Bush.
The Black Forrest
18-09-2006, 04:34
Nothing is likely to catch fire? Under what ass-backwards physical laws do you live?

ehehehehehe he said ass ehehehehehe
Im a ninja
18-09-2006, 04:35
But the point is that our culture ignores this ugly aspect of our history; not because it ignores our history in general, but because it distorts it.


Japan still hasn't apologized to China, and they don't even put it in thier textbooks.
Neb Tsenks
18-09-2006, 04:38
I have no problem with the first sentence. Your usage of "ingenious" in the second sentence is out of place, however.



So what words should have replaced "tribalist", "jingoist", and "indignation"?
You could've simple called me "ignorant" or "nationalist"



But the point is that our culture ignores this ugly aspect of our history; not because it ignores our history in general, but because it distorts it.
We don't really, go to a history class in America, they explain they Trail of Tears, or an english class they will show you Uncle Tom's Cabin.
Soheran
18-09-2006, 04:38
Japan still hasn't apologized to China, and they don't even put it in thier textbooks.

"Look, they do it too!" is not an excuse.
Congo--Kinshasa
18-09-2006, 04:39
Japan still hasn't apologized to China, and they don't even put it in thier textbooks.

Personally, I think history books should mention both the good and the bad, rather than just the good (right-wing books) or just the bad (left-wing books).
Congo--Kinshasa
18-09-2006, 04:40
"Look, they do it too!" is not an excuse.

*gives Soheran a cookie*
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 04:41
I don't see how behaving like animals will solve anything.

Are you saying that holding a revolution against the currently established system of governance is a distinctly unamerican and animalistic thing to do?
The Black Forrest
18-09-2006, 04:42
Well, face it, you're the source of almost all the world's problems.


True we do like to kill kittens and steal candy from babies.

"americanization" is now the universally used term to refer to bad developments in entertainment and trite culture.

Just a minor edit.


Within the last 40 years the USAmerican credibility has dropped to almost zero and Bush took away the rest.

Wow didn't know you were that old.


Even though the world still respects (or rather fears) the US military and economic power nobody puts any trust in the US or its people any more.

Oh wah you don't like us.


The divide between the few rich and poor masses as well as between the few educated and the dumbass masses (including all those rediculously religious folks) is too obvious to the world to predict any positive future for the US.
.

You do like those generalizations don't you?
Congo--Kinshasa
18-09-2006, 04:42
Are you saying that holding a revolution against the currently established system of governance is a distinctly unamerican and animalistic thing to do?

No, I'm not, but behaving like uncivilized gangsters is.
Soheran
18-09-2006, 04:43
You could've simple called me "ignorant" or "nationalist"

I have no idea if you're ignorant, and "jingoist" sounds better than "nationalist."

We don't really, go to a history class in America, they explain they Trail of Tears, or an english class they will show you Uncle Tom's Cabin.

I did not say anything about US history classes, merely about US culture.

As far as history classes go, though, while they no longer gloss over atrocities there is still much progress to be made.
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 04:44
Again not really, I could've said:
"But is indignation, really part of the vernacular of the common American? I have noticed people will slip in high-brow words to appear more ingenious to the subject you they are talking to."
But that wouldn't be the way people talk would it?

What exact relevance does the grasp of the english language possessed by the average citizen of the United States of America have on a forum owned by an Australian and hosted in the United Kigndom, prey tell?
Congo--Kinshasa
18-09-2006, 04:44
As far as history classes go, though, while they no longer gloss over atrocities there is still much progress to be made.

*gives Soheran another cookie*

That's two in under five minutes! :eek:
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 04:45
No, I'm not, but behaving like uncivilized gangsters is.

Are gangsters famed for their use of agricultural implements and flaming brands as methods of regime change? Transylvanian peasents in the movies, certainly, but gangsters?
The Black Forrest
18-09-2006, 04:46
Linky (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarcasm)

And I'll assume you're not a real ninja. :)

Pirates are cooler then ninjas!
Congo--Kinshasa
18-09-2006, 04:47
Are gangsters famed for their use of agricultural implements and flaming brands as methods of regime change? Transylvanian peasents in the movies, certainly, but gangsters?

Run that by me again.
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 04:47
I have no idea if you're ignorant, and "jingoist" sounds better than "nationalist."

It also carries distinctly different connotations. Describing someone as a nationalist doesn't really imply that they are pro-war, whereas jingoistic or a jingoist does, obviously.
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 04:49
Run that by me again.

Context:

...though in so far as the american public hasn't yet seen fit to chase the bastard out of the whitehouse with torches and pitchforks...
The Black Forrest
18-09-2006, 04:52
Japan still hasn't apologized to China, and they don't even put it in thier textbooks.

Well I belive China did a few attrocities in (damn I just blanked on the name but I think it was Fuco something) I think it was 1847.

Are they in the textbooks?

But you are correct. I remember some rather scary revisionism comming from a kid in Japan. He talked about sunken ships that survived the war. Some defeats were victories.

Not a damning example but it caused me to wonder at the time.....
Neb Tsenks
18-09-2006, 04:53
What exact relevance does the grasp of the english language possessed by the average citizen of the United States of America have on a forum owned by an Australian and hosted in the United Kigndom, prey tell?

I said american because that's only English Speaking culture I know how the average person speaks, but I think it's safe to say that in other cultures it wouldn't be the way someone normally speaks anway. I don't care about it anymore, just a semantics argument.
The Black Forrest
18-09-2006, 04:55
We don't really, go to a history class in America, they explain they Trail of Tears, or an english class they will show you Uncle Tom's Cabin.

Don't be blaming the system as the fault.

In most of my history classes, most of my classmates tuned out.

You have to wonder when you seen teenagers talking about the Axis powers being Germany, Japan, and England. Well come to think of it..... ;)
Soheran
18-09-2006, 04:55
It also carries distinctly different connotations. Describing someone as a nationalist doesn't really imply that they are pro-war, whereas jingoistic or a jingoist does, obviously.

Since most of the criticism, and most of the indignation, is related to foreign policy, I think that connotation is perfectly justified in this instance.
The Black Forrest
18-09-2006, 04:56
"Look, they do it too!" is not an excuse.

But it does beg the question of hypocrisy when they are saying "How dare you for......"
Soheran
18-09-2006, 04:59
But it does beg the question of hypocrisy when they are saying "How dare you for......"

No, it doesn't - not if they oppose it when their country does it, too.
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 05:01
I said american because that's only English Speaking culture I know how the average person speaks, but I think it's safe to say that in other cultures it wouldn't be the way someone normally speaks anway. I don't care about it anymore, just a semantics argument.

Hang on here, you're jumping on someone's back for use of the words 'tribalist', 'jingoist' and most ludicrously 'indignation', and then see no irony in slipping in the word 'semantics' into your own posts?

***

The way people normally speak depend upon context: here we have discourse about politics coming from a wide range of different opinions, and thus limiting such discussion to the vernacular of the American street corner or bar is really just an artificial limitation.

Secondly, you seem to have made the assumption that the written word is subsidiary to the spoken word here. Now possibly the way we speak determines the way we write more than vice-versa, but on a forum such as this the written word is prime, and to introduce artificial limitations on the vocabulary used seems counterproductive.

One of the major differences between the written word and the spoken word is thatw e are much more accepting of broken sentence structure and more pertinantly repetition in the spoken word. In written texts it becomes jarring if we read the same word over and over again in the course of a few sentences, but we do not feel the same response to the spoken word, and thus it is only natural for people to use a wider range vocabulary when writing. Homonyms are your friend here.
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 05:02
Since most of the criticism, and most of the indignation, is related to foreign policy, I think that connotation is perfectly justified in this instance.

This I am not disputing. In fact, I would go so far as to proffer a 'gung-ho' here.
The Black Forrest
18-09-2006, 05:04
No, it doesn't - not if they oppose it when their country does it, too.

I have heard the US bashed more then once over it's actions with the aboriginals.

I remember one instance of an Australian bashing this country with that very claim and yet thought nothing of his countries handling of their aboriginals.
Barbaric Tribes
18-09-2006, 05:05
As they bash America, America will be the first country they will run to when they face a real military threat however. Because they all know that we're the real badasses and the ONLY nation in the UN with the balls to fight. Having said that don't scream at me that I support Bush or the conservitaves because I don't, I hate the Federal Gov. however What I said is undeniable true.
Soheran
18-09-2006, 05:07
I have heard the US bashed more then once over it's actions with the aboriginals.

I remember one instance of an Australian bashing this country with that very claim and yet thought nothing of his countries handling of their aboriginals.

"Thought nothing" as in, when challenged, didn't think it was a crime, or "thought nothing" as in "didn't bring it up in a thread discussing the US"?
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 05:07
As they bash America, America will be the first country they will run to when they face a real military threat however. Because they all know that we're the real badasses and the ONLY nation in the UN with the balls to fight.

Ah, that is why the operations in Iraq and Afghanistan were carried out by entirely American forces, yes?
Im a ninja
18-09-2006, 05:08
Ah, that is why the operations in Iraq and Afghanistan were carried out by entirely American forces, yes?

Almost entirley.
Neb Tsenks
18-09-2006, 05:08
Hang on here, you're jumping on someone's back for use of the words 'tribalist', 'jingoist' and most ludicrously 'indignation', and then see no irony in slipping in the word 'semantics' into your own posts?

***

The way people normally speak depend upon context: here we have discourse about politics coming from a wide range of different opinions, and thus limiting such discussion to the vernacular of the American street corner or bar is really just an artificial limitation.

Secondly, you seem to have made the assumption that the written word is subsidiary to the spoken word here. Now possibly the way we speak determines the way we write more than vice-versa, but on a forum such as this the written word is prime, and to introduce artificial limitations on the vocabulary used seems counterproductive.

One of the major differences between the written word and the spoken word is thatw e are much more accepting of broken sentence structure and more pertinantly repetition in the spoken word. In written texts it becomes jarring if we read the same word over and over again in the course of a few sentences, but we do not feel the same response to the spoken word, and thus it is only natural for people to use a wider range vocabulary when writing. Homonyms are your friend here.


I'm sorry, I was wrong and you are and will always be right about everything, you can quote me on this. And have I the previlage to meet you in person i will kneel before you and kiss your hand, which I trust is covered in the many rings.
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 05:09
Almost entirley.

'Almost entirely' doesn't sit well with 'ONLY'.

(Not that I am arguing with you on this point).
Barbaric Tribes
18-09-2006, 05:10
Ah, that is why the operations in Iraq and Afghanistan were carried out by entirely American forces, yes?

I'll give other nations credit for Afghanistan but honestly, in Iraq? sending 300 soldiers means nothing in Iraq, that is a very large scale conflict.
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 05:10
I'm sorry, I was wrong and you are and will always be right about everything, you can quote me on this. And have I the previlage to meet you in person i will kneel before you and kiss you hand.

Ah, nothing like intelligent conversation.
The Black Forrest
18-09-2006, 05:10
"Thought nothing" as in, when challenged, didn't think it was a crime, or "thought nothing" as in "didn't bring it up in a thread discussing the US"?

He basically said we are a bad people because of it and yet said it was beside the point when questioned over judging us for the very crimes his country commited.

There is a differnce between saying what was done was bullshit and saying you people are bullshit for having done that....
Soheran
18-09-2006, 05:10
I'll give other nations credit for Afghanistan but honestly, in Iraq? sending 300 soldiers means nothing in Iraq, that is a very large scale conflict.

Sending troops to Iraq is hardly something that is credit-worthy.
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 05:12
I'll give other nations credit for Afghanistan but honestly, in Iraq? sending 300 soldiers means nothing in Iraq, that is a very large scale conflict.

The fact there are eight other nations who have contributed more than 300 soldiers, for good or ill, has escaped your notice?
Soheran
18-09-2006, 05:15
He basically said we are a bad people because of it and yet said it was beside the point when questioned over judging us for the very crimes his country commited.

If you are recounting it correctly, yes, that is hypocritical, and I suppose it is fair to bring up in such instances the atrocities of others.

But in most cases it is merely a red herring.
Barbaric Tribes
18-09-2006, 05:20
The fact there are eight other nations who have contributed more than 300 soldiers, for good or ill, has escaped your notice?

Um, what the hell are you talking about, besides England (which is pulling out) and the US. Those 8 other nations have not ever sent more than 1,000 soldiers. And I'm sorry if this hurts your brain but they also never had front line duty and bassically did little. And that is still a very small amount of men to help control that huge country. BTW I do not support the war in Iraq. I'm simply saying the UN has proven itself to be pussy-footing failures and that when countries (that bash us) all of the sudden want military aid for the militants kicking their ass, they imeidatly run to get US help. Becuase they know that the US will actually really fight.
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 05:28
Um, what the hell are you talking about, besides England (which is pulling out) and the US.

The UK, not England. I seem to have missed the news that the UK are pulling out of Iraq. Really?

Those 8 other nations have not ever sent more than 1,000 soldiers.

Did I ever claim that they did? - we were talking about the figure of 300 a few posts back, how did it suddenly blossom to a nice round thousand? Aside from which three countries other than the USA did provide more than a thousand troops.
Barbaric Tribes
18-09-2006, 05:40
The UK, not England. I seem to have missed the news that the UK are pulling out of Iraq. Really?



Did I ever claim that they did? - we were talking about the figure of 300 a few posts back, how did it suddenly blossom to a nice round thousand? Aside from which three countries other than the USA did provide more than a thousand troops.

Quit the fucking semantics your totally missing the point you harded headed fool. You know the US is the only nation that will actually stand up. Give me one, just one good example in the past 40 years of the UN stepping in (with out almost total US backing) and actually fighting. Actually standing their ground to defend an ally.
Clades
18-09-2006, 05:42
The reason that people dissagree with American politics in other countries currently is because their memories, and our own are too short to remember past events when outside "interference" from stronger nations was not only accepted, but welcomed. First, at least in the history of America would be the fact that we wouldn't have been a country at all if the French wouldn't have sailed their fleet across the Atlantic and killed off the English. At that time we were merely a bunch of rebels, not all of us even agreed on the course of action to be taken (namely war or not). Jumping ahead in history, no one objected when the French were occupied by an outside force (World Wars I and II) when we came and bailed them out (with the help of the English). Or in the same era when Soviets were starving millions of their own people who didn't agree with Marxist doctrination, we went to their aid and people didn't fight it. But now when a group, not necessarily even the majority but simply the most militant group, in Iraq is oppressing their own populations and lowering the standard of living, people get all up in arms about the stronger nation helping out those who can't help themselves. If you are worried about lost lives of American soldiers, fewer have died than in any of the previous wars by far. If you think that the Iraqi people don't want the help, talk to any soldier who's been over there, every one I know has supported his/her actions 100% and never doubted thier thankfulness. For all of you computer people who spend the vast majority of your time criticizing and playing video games, how about you get your head into something realistic for a little while and take things into perspective, you all criticize things you know nothing about.
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 05:46
Give me one, just one good example in the past 40 years of the UN stepping in (with out almost total US backing) and actually fighting. Actually standing their ground to defend an ally.

Bosnia.

EDIT: ...and Kosovo.
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 05:57
TJumping ahead in history, no one objected when the French were occupied by an outside force (World Wars I and II) when we came and bailed them out (with the help of the English).

The British (not English) Army and the Americans weren't occupying France: they were invited there by the French government (or the French government in exile).
Clades
18-09-2006, 06:01
The government in control of France at the time didn't ask us to come in, that would have been the Germans. The ruling government of Iraq was no more a ruler of the Kurds inside of their borders than the Germans were looking out for the French.
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 06:06
The government in control of France at the time didn't ask us to come in, that would have been the Germans. The ruling government of Iraq was no more a ruler of the Kurds inside of their borders than the Germans were looking out for the French.

Government in exile as I said, with respect to WWII - De Gaulle and the Free French were recognised by the UK, whereas the Vichy government were not. I'm not entirely sure of the status of the government in exile as it was viewed by the USA, I seem to remember that they at least initally recognised the Vichy government as legitimate.
Barbaric Tribes
18-09-2006, 06:08
Bosnia.

EDIT: ...and Kosovo.

yeah, I said one where America wasnt the one dishing out more than everyone else combined remmeber. Still applies.
Bodies Without Organs
18-09-2006, 06:16
yeah, I said one where America wasnt the one dishing out more than everyone else combined remmeber. Still applies.


I get the US supplying less troops than either Germany or the UK in Kosovo, and supplying less troops than any of Bangladesh, Belgium, Canada, Czechoslovakia, Denmark, France, Jordan, Kenya, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Norway, Pakistan, Poland, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, the Ukraine and the UK in Bosnia.

These are all individual countries supplying more troops than the US, never mind notions of 'more than everyone else combined'.

I get 7,000 US troops in Kosovo and 748 US troops in Bosnia, compared to, for example, 13,000 and 3,405 UK troops respectively. What figures do you get?

***

Re-reading over it, this post seems overly hostile, and shouldn't be taken as such. We're here to talk, after all.
Nodinia
18-09-2006, 09:30
Quit the fucking semantics your totally missing the point you harded headed fool. You know the US is the only nation that will actually stand up. Give me one, just one good example in the past 40 years of the UN stepping in (with out almost total US backing) and actually fighting. Actually standing their ground to defend an ally.

"Stand up" for what? The right to bomb third world countries and call it a war? There was no rush to defend east Timor, depose Pinochet, stop the killing in Rwanda or end death squads in Latin America.
Myotisinia
18-09-2006, 09:42
Why?

I like it when they do.

It proves we're number 1.

Exactly. If they weren't envious, they'd just ignore us. Oh, wait. They can't.
Zexaland
18-09-2006, 10:11
Seriously that's how ever god damn thread ends on this forum. Like we're the source the all the worlds problems. I'm tired of taking heat for my governments string of shitty descisions, and then being stereotyped accordingly. The world sees my country as a bunch of fat ignorant assholes, with to much money and time.Meanwhile America's citizen are for the most part like everyone else. I'm sure all of your countries governments have fucked up numerous times aswell, stop complaining, it's not like we're a dictorship or terrorist group. We're more of the asshole friend that everyone talks about about behind their backs :)

Suck it up, princess.
German Nightmare
18-09-2006, 10:12
I'll stop complaining about the U.S. once you guys stop associating Germany only with the Shoa and Holocaust and reduce my country's history to 12 years.

Which will be, like, NEVER!
BackwoodsSquatches
18-09-2006, 10:18
I'll stop complaining about the U.S. once you guys stop associating Germany only with the Shoa and Holocaust and reduce my country's history to 12 years.

Which will be, like, NEVER!

You must admit, Germany has been pretty quiet for 60 years now.
What else are people going to remember?

More to the point, only a dumbass only thinks of the Holocaust when thinking about Germany.
Once again, Europeans continue to generalize about every damn American ever born.

For fucks sake, stop talking only to the stupid ones.
We dont like them either...
Philosopy
18-09-2006, 10:21
For fucks sake, stop talking only to the stupid ones.
We dont like them either...
They're much louder, it's hard not to hear them.

Some might say there was a comparison with religion in this regard, and the way people treat ordinary people of faith as fundamentalist lunatics.

But I'm sure no one on this forum would do such a thing...
BackwoodsSquatches
18-09-2006, 10:26
though in so far as the american public hasn't yet seen fit to chase the bastard out of the whitehouse with torches and pitchforks, they can't escape all blame even on that front.

Right, Just like the German people ran Hitler out?

How did that work out for Stalin?

Sure, blame every citizen in this country for voting in a complete retard, twice.

Except we didnt really elect him the first time, and half the voters voted against him BOTH times.

We dont have any more power than the Germans did, or the Russian people did when they had douches in charge.
By the way, you people in other countries should probably be thankful that Bush ISNT Hitler, or Stalin, or we would be knocking over your governments and seizing anything of value that you have.

Be thankful Bush isnt quite as much as of a monster as those two.
BackwoodsSquatches
18-09-2006, 10:31
They're much louder, it's hard not to hear them.

So you like to base your opinions on the loudest idiots you can find?


Some might say there was a comparison with religion in this regard, and the way people treat ordinary people of faith as fundamentalist lunatics.

But I'm sure no one on this forum would do such a thing...

Certainly, there is such a correlation, but I dont believe that every Christian is Fred Phelps, either.

People are one of two things:

Decent folks.

or Assholes.

Most christians are decent folks...many are assholes.
Everyone fits into one of two categories.
German Nightmare
18-09-2006, 10:32
You must admit, Germany has been pretty quiet for 60 years now.
What else are people going to remember?

More to the point, only a dumbass only thinks of the Holocaust when thinking about Germany.
Once again, Europeans continue to generalize about every damn American ever born.

For fucks sake, stop talking only to the stupid ones.
We dont like them either...
I know, dude ;) But Germany ain't all that quiet. Look at economy, science, sports, military - we're around. It's simply that we don't cause the problems any longer :D

I believe the U.S. get their bashing because their foreign policy affects the whole planet - not because of the nice people living there.

(I had to ask: If you don't like the stupid ones, how did Bush end up in office twice?!? :p)
Philosopy
18-09-2006, 10:35
So you like to base your opinions on the loudest idiots you can find?
No, I actually have quite a high opinion of America and American's, which makes it all the worse when the country does something stupid. And, like it or not, most people will base their opinions on the loudest people, because that's all they know of a place/thing. Considering that the loudest idiot of them all is currently your President, and you have a recipe for a lot of America-bashing.

Doesn't make it justified, but it is easy to see where it comes from.
NERVUN
18-09-2006, 10:38
Japan still hasn't apologized to China, and they don't even put it in thier textbooks.
History lesson for ya...

October 23, 1992: Emperor Akihito visits China and admits Japan inflicted "great suffering" on the Chinese people during the war and that he "deeply deplores this."

August 4, 1993: Chief Cabinet Secretary Yohei Kono admits Asian women were forced to provide sex to Japanese soldiers during the war and extends an apology on behalf of the Japanese goverment.

August 10, 1993: Prime Minister Morihiro Hosokawa becomes the first Japanese prime minister to call Japan's conduct in the 1930's and 1940's "a war of aggression" (a position offically addopted by each Japanese government since).

August 25, 1995: Prime Minister Tomiichi Murayama expresses a "heartfelt apology" for Japan's wars, saying it "caused tremendous damage and suffering" to Asian nations "through its colonial rule and aggression."

October 8, 2001: Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi visits the Marco Polo Bridge in China and apologizes for Japan's "aggressision" against China.

April 22, 2005: Prime Minister Koizumi, echoing words from Murayama's 1995 statement, expresses his "deep remorse and heartfelt apology" for Japan's "colonial rule and aggression" during a meeting of leaders from Asia and Africa in Indonesia.
(The Japan Times, Saturday September 16, 2006)

So, uh, you were saying about Japan not having apologized yet? :rolleyes:

And that damn textbook is ONE textbook out of SIX and is used in less than 1% of Japanese junior high schools in Japan. The rest all mention Japan's conduct and terrors that it perpertrated in China and elsewhere.

It should also be noted that the reason that one book hasn't been selling well is that every time it is brought up in a school board, the local population usually comes out in force to denouce it (highly unusal for Japan). The Japanese don't like the damn thing either.

You can even read the books currently approved for use in Japan here:
http://www.je-kaleidoscope.jp./english/index.html
BackwoodsSquatches
18-09-2006, 10:39
I know, dude ;)

I believe the U.S. get their bashing because their foreign policy affects the whole planet - not because of the nice people living there.

See, thats the thing...
The real, honest problem that Americans have, is that we are far too dependant on television to do our thinking for us.
This is why pundits like Bill OReilly have such a huge fanbase, he makes a few statememts that sound intelligent, and then tells you how to think about them.
Bill O Reilly doesnt give you the news, he tells you how to feel about the news.

Stupid people dont like to think.
So, too many of us listen to the O Reilly's, or the Coulters, or the Moores of the country, and dont bother to get the whole story on anything, and that..is how douchebags like Bush get into office.



(I had to ask: If you don't like the stupid ones, how did Bush end up in office twice?!? :p)


See above.
Kilobugya
18-09-2006, 10:40
I definitely do not bash "america", since I'm fond of latin america :)

I do bash "USA" for all the wrong they do on the world, but it's the governement (present and past ones) and the structure of the system that I "bash", not the people themselves. I've a lot of sympathy for the people of USA, who are, they too, victims of the neoliberal imperialist system that I "bash".
WangWee
18-09-2006, 10:44
I don't see how behaving like animals will solve anything.

That's what you guys did to Clinton, wasn't it?
BackwoodsSquatches
18-09-2006, 10:47
No, I actually have quite a high opinion of America and American's, which makes it all the worse when the country does something stupid. And, like it or not, most people will base their opinions on the loudest people, because that's all they know of a place/thing. Considering that the loudest idiot of them all is currently your President, and you have a recipe for a lot of America-bashing.

Doesn't make it justified, but it is easy to see where it comes from.

Now, you begin to understand the frustration of millions of Americans.

Those of us that were against Bush from the very start, have had to sit idly by for six and a half years, while that asshole has fucked up everything we stand for, and everything that we believe our Constitution stands for.

We look at Iraq and feel helpless, knowing it was a rotten idea from the very start, and all the while we've been saying "No, this isnt right!", only to have our loyalties and patriotism attacked and insulted by those very people who are the ones doing the damage.

Those of us who the word "Liberal" is used as a weapon at, get highly pissed when told that we should hate the French, becuase they openly speak out at our attempts ar Imperialization. Not everyone called them "Freedom Fries"...many of us decided to drink MORE French wine and cheese, just to spite the arrogant assholes in office.

Angry, helpess, frustrated, and depressed.

Welcome to half of America.
Philosopy
18-09-2006, 10:49
Angry, helpess, frustrated, and depressed.

Welcome to half of America.

Only a year and a half left to go now. :)
BackwoodsSquatches
18-09-2006, 10:50
Only a year and a half left to go now. :)

Not soon enough...
Meath Street
18-09-2006, 10:58
Do you really think it will change if a democrat is elected in '08?
It depends on what the policies are. It really doesn't matter to us what party your king belongs to.

No, but they are that and "indignation" aren't really everyday words, I've noticed people that slip in vocabulary words into their conversations are attempting to appear smarter than who they are talking to.
Soheran had a point, and with the way you're refuting him he might as well have also put "anti-intellectual" in there too.
East of Eden is Nod
18-09-2006, 11:03
I expected reactions like this: persisting ignorance.

True we do like to kill kittens and steal candy from babies.

No, you endorsed every kind of sinister government or political group when it suited you, and then you wonder why all blows up right in your face. Iran, Cuba, Vietnam, Nicaragua, Afghanistan, Iraq. The list is in fact much longer.

Just a minor edit.

Don't edit my posts. I mean what I say.

Wow didn't know you were that old.

Well, the whole concept of education is to gain knowledge about circumstances and events without experiencing them in person.
It seems you have no use for education.

Oh wah you don't like us.

No, I do not trust you. Just like the rest of humanity outside the US.

You do like those generalizations don't you?

This is not a generalization, this is an accurate description.
.
German Nightmare
18-09-2006, 11:13
See, thats the thing...
The real, honest problem that Americans have, is that we are far too dependant on television to do our thinking for us.
This is why pundits like Bill OReilly have such a huge fanbase, he makes a few statememts that sound intelligent, and then tells you how to think about them.
Bill O Reilly doesnt give you the news, he tells you how to feel about the news.

Stupid people dont like to think.
So, too many of us listen to the O Reilly's, or the Coulters, or the Moores of the country, and dont bother to get the whole story on anything, and that..is how douchebags like Bush get into office.

See above.
And (no joke!) my heartfelt sympathy goes out to those US-Americans who are in the same boat.
I'm waiting for the day that the (smart) US-public stands up for their rights.
That'd be something to praise for a change ;)
NERVUN
18-09-2006, 11:20
No, I do not trust you. Just like the rest of humanity outside the US.
Odd... I've met Brits, Aussies, Canuks, Chinese, Koreans, Philipinos, Brazilians, and (of course) many, many Japanese and they seem to trust and like Americans just fine.

Maybe, possibly, not ALL humanity does not join you in trusting the US?
BackwoodsSquatches
18-09-2006, 11:20
And (no joke!) my heartfelt sympathy goes out to those US-Americans who are in the same boat.
I waiting for the day that the (smart) US-public stands up for their rights.
That'd be something to praise for a change ;)

Nothing would make me happier, but alas, I see it going the other way.
I think more and more of us just give up and roll over everyday.

Not I...

Never retreat..never surrender.
East of Eden is Nod
18-09-2006, 11:20
The reason that people dissagree with American politics in other countries currently is because their memories, and our own are too short to remember past events when outside "interference" from stronger nations was not only accepted, but welcomed. First, at least in the history of America would be the fact that we wouldn't have been a country at all if the French wouldn't have sailed their fleet across the Atlantic and killed off the English. At that time we were merely a bunch of rebels, not all of us even agreed on the course of action to be taken (namely war or not). Jumping ahead in history, no one objected when the French were occupied by an outside force (World Wars I and II) when we came and bailed them out (with the help of the English). Or in the same era when Soviets were starving millions of their own people who didn't agree with Marxist doctrination, we went to their aid and people didn't fight it. But now when a group, not necessarily even the majority but simply the most militant group, in Iraq is oppressing their own populations and lowering the standard of living, people get all up in arms about the stronger nation helping out those who can't help themselves. If you are worried about lost lives of American soldiers, fewer have died than in any of the previous wars by far. If you think that the Iraqi people don't want the help, talk to any soldier who's been over there, every one I know has supported his/her actions 100% and never doubted thier thankfulness. For all of you computer people who spend the vast majority of your time criticizing and playing video games, how about you get your head into something realistic for a little while and take things into perspective, you all criticize things you know nothing about.

The difference is that it was mainly the US that built up Saddam's regime in the first place and gave him the weapons he wanted. So "rescuing" the Iraqi people sounds very hypocritical. And why did the US give the weapons to Saddam? Because he was fighting against the Iranians in whose coutry the US had messed up before. It was the US that managed the overthrow of the government there in 1953/54 and installed the dictatorship of Shah Pahlevi. The Islamic revolution was only the reaction to this US-American puppet's extremely violent rule.
You criticize things you know nothing about.[
BackwoodsSquatches
18-09-2006, 11:23
The difference is that it was mainly the US that built up Saddam's regime in the first place and gave him the weapons he wanted. So "rescuing" the Iraqi people sounds very hypocritical. And why did the US give the weapons to Saddam? Because he was fighting against the Iranians in whose coutry the US had messed up before. It was the US that managed the overthrow of the government there in 1953/54 and installed the dictatorship of Shah Pahlevi. The Islamic revolution was only the reaction to this US-American puppet's extremely violent rule.
You criticize things you know nothing about.[

Really?

Guess who gave him nuclear reactors?

Hint: Not America.
Ariddia
18-09-2006, 11:27
Really?

Guess who gave him nuclear reactors?

Hint: Not America.

So you conveniently ignore everything else.
NERVUN
18-09-2006, 11:27
Never retreat..never surrender.
Pssst... the line is "Never give up and never surrender." ;)
BackwoodsSquatches
18-09-2006, 11:32
So you conveniently ignore everything else.

Nonsense.

I merely mention it to illustrate the point that Sadams former prosperity was not the sole work of the US.
BackwoodsSquatches
18-09-2006, 11:38
Pssst... the line is "Never give up and never surrender." ;)

Actually, I wasnt attempting to quote any particular line, or phrase.
But....noted, if it makes ya feel any better. :)
German Nightmare
18-09-2006, 11:44
Nothing would make me happier, but alas, I see it going the other way.
I think more and more of us just give up and roll over everyday.

Not I...

Never retreat..never surrender.
Good Peter Quincy Taggart quote!
BackwoodsSquatches
18-09-2006, 11:45
Good Peter Quincy Taggart quote!

Apparently, not....

I just thought it sounded appropriate....
German Nightmare
18-09-2006, 11:58
Apparently, not....

I just thought it sounded appropriate....
It is appropriate. The quote I thought of went "Never give up. Never surrender."

Close, but not quite it ;)
Emminger
18-09-2006, 12:39
See there is nothing wrong with Americans bashing America. We live here!!! We actually know how we are. Thus we can criticize based on actual knowledge rather than stereotypes or that one asshole from America that they've met. Americans (At least not here) don't go around bashing every other country simply based on stereotypes (If they do, they're either trolls or are joking like all the French jokes I like to make). Americans can also bash America because through it all we still love our goddamn, arrogant, fatass, ignorant country. To all you people who bash America without haven't any idea what the hell you're talking about. I raise a one-fingered salute to you all :upyours: . Thank you and goodnight.

I second that!!
JobbiNooner
18-09-2006, 12:42
INDEED

Don't like it here? You're welcome to leave anytime you like. Just because we have a bloated, and corrupt government doesn't mean America sucks. Americas ruling class sucks.
Minaris
18-09-2006, 12:45
Nothing would make me happier, but alas, I see it going the other way.
I think more and more of us just give up and roll over everyday.

Not me. I'm preparing for the Moon.

The Moon: The Smart Man's Salvation

(Also working on Transcending... not going very well. :p )
Emminger
18-09-2006, 12:47
I actually believe that all this America bashing is done out of jealousy and envy. If as much of the world hates us so much then how come the immigrants are pouring in like crazy. That doesn't look like hate to me.

Maybe it's because those who bash just can't make the trip or maybe it's because your on the terrorist support list that's not allowed in.

I really do think it's because your jealous and envy our so Great and Powerful country God Bless America.

Also note that whosoever points a finger has three more pointing at themselves.

I say if it makes you feel good inside then go right ahead bash bash bash. But remember this if you as a world tells America what or how to do something We say to the hell with that if your big enough then make us.

And for the one who said earlier that the world begged America to vote for Kerry well guess what Bin Laden and al-queda wanted us to vote for Kerry too so Us Americans will be damned if we give into any terrorists, period.

Note for the wise: Focus on your own corrupt governments and your own corrupted views. Any nation that condemns America more than the terrorists are condemned are fools. America will do anything that we see fit whether you like us or not. Good Riddens
Swilatia
18-09-2006, 12:47
i will not stop bashing america until their stupidy and imperialism comes to an end.
Minaris
18-09-2006, 12:52
i will not stop bashing america until their stupidy and imperialism comes to an end.

When there's another superpower, then they MIGHT stop, but not until then.
Emminger
18-09-2006, 12:56
Funny thing is is that most everyone loves our movies, loves our food, really loves our money and donations, Loves our Freedoms, and landmarks but the real funny thing is they still continue to bash. Like I said for the most part you envy us and that you should be.:D
WangWee
18-09-2006, 13:02
I actually believe that all this America bashing is done out of jealousy and envy. If as much of the world hates us so much then how come the immigrants are pouring in like crazy. That doesn't look like hate to me.

Maybe it's because those who bash just can't make the trip or maybe it's because your on the terrorist support list that's not allowed in.

I really do think it's because your jealous and envy our so Great and Powerful country God Bless America.

Also note that whosoever points a finger has three more pointing at themselves.

I say if it makes you feel good inside then go right ahead bash bash bash. But remember this if you as a world tells America what or how to do something We say to the hell with that if your big enough then make us.

And for the one who said earlier that the world begged America to vote for Kerry well guess what Bin Laden and al-queda wanted us to vote for Kerry too so Us Americans will be damned if we give into any terrorists, period.

Note for the wise: Focus on your own corrupt governments and your own corrupted views. Any nation that condemns America more than the terrorists are condemned are fools. America will do anything that we see fit whether you like us or not. Good Riddens

You're absolutely right: I bash america because I envy your bad spelling, amazing ignorance and your ability to spew forth idiotic nationalist drivel at an incredible rate.
Rambhutan
18-09-2006, 13:05
Funny thing is is that most everyone loves our movies, loves our food, really loves our money and donations, Loves our Freedoms, and landmarks but the real funny thing is they still continue to bash. Like I said for the most part you envy us and that you should be.:D


...and there was me in my American Bashing way thinking USians couldn't manage irony. Adam Sandler and Kentucky Chicken, gee thanks there.
Emminger
18-09-2006, 13:19
May God continue to Bless America!!! USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA

And to all those who love to bash and hate i say.......:upyours:
NERVUN
18-09-2006, 13:21
May God continue to Bless America!!! USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA

And to all those who love to bash and hate i say.......:upyours:
Do you have anything rational to say or are you just going for emotional responces and trolling?
Meath Street
18-09-2006, 13:26
I actually believe that all this America bashing is done out of jealousy and envy.
This is what all American conservatives say, and they're all wrong. The people bashing America aren't the same people immigrating.

Why are you so fucking egotistical?

And for the one who said earlier that the world begged America to vote for Kerry well guess what Bin Laden and al-queda wanted us to vote for Kerry too so Us Americans will be damned if we give into any terrorists, period.
Actually bin Laden issued a statement wishing that Americans vote for Bush.

Funny thing is is that most everyone loves our movies, loves our food, really loves our money and donations, Loves our Freedoms, and landmarks but the real funny thing is they still continue to bash. Like I said for the most part you envy us and that you should be.:D
And hates your government. That's the thing.

You can't see anything from another person's point of view can you? And I bet you're one of these hypocrites who calls himself Christian...

May God continue to Bless America!!! USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA
America is not the light of the world, Jesus is. American "Christians" worship their country, not their God.
Emminger
18-09-2006, 13:26
Actually this thread seems to be mainly stuck on bashing America so I felt that as my patriotic duty to show a bit of American support. As far as I know it isn't against intn'l law to show your country a bit of support. When so many of you are stuck on hating America.
and again I say God Bless America
New Stalinberg
18-09-2006, 13:29
i will not stop bashing america until their stupidy and imperialism comes to an end.

Stupidity? Bush may be a dumbass, but Cheney and Rumsfeld are the ones pulling the strings. I wouldn't call them stupid, more like assholes who make terrible decisions. Really terrible decisions.

I wouldn't go so far as to call it imperialism either. Besides, the idea of spreading democracy looks good on paper right?

Call us stupid and bash us all you want, it actually makes you look quite ignorant. Do you think we actually like Bush? If you don't, why should we? He only represents those below the mason-dixon line (Austin not withstanding). He gives our country a terrible rep, and it's going to stick with us for a while.
Emminger
18-09-2006, 13:31
Well, I would call myself a christian, meaning a strong believer in God and Jesus Christ. I don't really attend the church services because they seemingly, in my own opinion are losing their reputation.

Also, if I recall correctly, God does mention how you need to respect and abide by your nations law. And Yes Americans are filled with Pride and I see that as a very good thing.
Cabra West
18-09-2006, 13:31
Funny thing is is that most everyone loves our movies, loves our food, really loves our money and donations, Loves our Freedoms, and landmarks but the real funny thing is they still continue to bash. Like I said for the most part you envy us and that you should be.:D

Really? You mean Hollywood actually came out with one good movie in the last 10 years? Wow. I must have missed that one.

What food? Fastfood and freedom fries?

What freedoms? There was a thread not too long ago that the country with the most freedom on the planet is Estonia.

I'm not bashing the USA. But whenever people lance into a rant like that, I feel it's my responsiblity to get them back to the hard facts...
Rambhutan
18-09-2006, 13:34
Stupidity? Bush may be a dumbass, but Cheney and Rumsfeld are the ones pulling the strings. I wouldn't call them stupid, more like assholes who make terrible decisions. Really terrible decisions.

I wouldn't go so far as to call it imperialism either. Besides, the idea of spreading democracy looks good on paper right?

Call us stupid and bash us all you want, it actually makes you look quite ignorant. Do you think we actually like Bush? If you don't, why should we? He only represents those below the mason-dixon line (Austin not withstanding). He gives our country a terrible rep, and it's going to stick with us for a while.

Well I suppose that is the trouble with representative democracy - you elect assholes and people think they represent what you are like.
NERVUN
18-09-2006, 13:34
Really? You mean Hollywood actually came out with one good movie in the last 10 years? Wow. I must have missed that one.

I protest! Lord of the Rings was New Line which IS Hollywood. ;)
Cabra West
18-09-2006, 13:35
Actually this thread seems to be mainly stuck on bashing America so I felt that as my patriotic duty to show a bit of American support. As far as I know it isn't against intn'l law to show your country a bit of support. When so many of you are stuck on hating America.
and again I say God Bless America

If we hated it, why do you think we'd spend that much time criticising it? You don't ciritise whom you hate, you criticise who you like, hoping they'll understand what you see is going wrong.
Cabra West
18-09-2006, 13:36
I protest! Lord of the Rings was New Line which IS Hollywood. ;)

NO comparisson to the book. :p
;)
NERVUN
18-09-2006, 13:36
NO comparisson to the book. :p
;)
I won't argue with that, but it WAS a good series of movies. :D
Emminger
18-09-2006, 13:38
If you don't hate and truly like Americans then why do I recieve the 3rd degree when I say God Bless America.

It seems as if the world has rights to their views but us Americans should be restricted on having our own views. So reading all these threads are kind of offensive and confusing.
Cabra West
18-09-2006, 13:39
I won't argue with that, but it WAS a good series of movies. :D

It wasn't all bad, but it's not among my favourite movies, I'm afraid.
NERVUN
18-09-2006, 13:42
If you don't hate and truly like Americans then why do I recieve the 3rd degree when I say God Bless America.
Because what does it really say except, "We're right and you're wrong no matter what you say?" and "God favores us over YOU!"

There are many GOOD things about home, and I also get very frustrated with people who can't seperate Americans from the Government of the United States... BUT, having said that, living abroad I can also see a lot clearer what it is people from other countries complain about.

Waving the flag and refusing to listen and address some very real problems just confirms the sterotypes out there that your fellow Americans are working hard to try and show to be false.
Cabra West
18-09-2006, 13:43
If you don't hate and truly like Americans then why do I recieve the 3rd degree when I say God Bless America.

What's the "3rd degree"?
And the reactions are probably due to the association of that phrase with the kind of people who really want the best for themselves, but hide behind partiotism to make the rest of the country follow them
NERVUN
18-09-2006, 13:44
It wasn't all bad, but it's not among my favourite movies, I'm afraid.

Takes all kinds then, but I still thought they were good movies.

Hmmm.... Batman Begins was good too, does that count?
Aelosia
18-09-2006, 13:45
Seriously that's how ever god damn thread ends on this forum. Like we're the source the all the worlds problems. I'm tired of taking heat for my governments string of shitty descisions, and then being stereotyped accordingly. The world sees my country as a bunch of fat ignorant assholes, with to much money and time.Meanwhile America's citizen are for the most part like everyone else. I'm sure all of your countries governments have fucked up numerous times aswell, stop complaining, it's not like we're a dictorship or terrorist group. We're more of the asshole friend that everyone talks about about behind their backs :)

Of course our goverments have fucked up. I'm pretty sure our goverments have fucked up a lot more than yours. But you know what the problem is?

We recognize it, usually.

I mean, several people can from time to time say..."You know what?, this country really sucks"

Instead you US citizens (and of course this is a dumb generalization, this thread IS about dumb generalizations, so please the smart ones knows that "all" means "many") usually defend your country to death no matter what, your only defense being that "America" is perfect, and can hold no flaw.

That's like the guy who is moderately fat and insists that he is thin as a straw. He just provokes more bashing than he deserves.
Emminger
18-09-2006, 13:46
Because what does it really say except, "We're right and you're wrong no matter what you say?" and "God favores us over YOU!"

There are many GOOD things about home, and I also get very frustrated with people who can't seperate Americans from the Government of the United States... BUT, having said that, living abroad I can also see a lot clearer what it is people from other countries complain about.

Waving the flag and refusing to listen and address some very real problems just confirms the sterotypes out there that your fellow Americans are working hard to try and show to be false.

Those 3 words mean that much. Wow. What an interpretation
Emminger
18-09-2006, 13:50
Of course our goverments have fucked up. I'm pretty sure our goverments have fucked up a lot more than yours. But you know what the problem is?

We recognize it, usually.

I mean, several people can from time to time say..."You know what?, this country really sucks"

Instead you US citizens (and of course this is a dumb generalization, this thread IS about dumb generalizations, so please the smart ones knows that "all" means "many") usually defend your country to death no matter what, your only defense being that "America" is perfect, and can hold no flaw.

That's like the guy who is moderately fat and insists that he is thin as a straw. He just provokes more bashing than he deserves.

You know what...We do criticize our government, especially our Judicial system. Another thing, we Americans do know that our country fucks up. We do know we aren't perfect. We, Americans, do know that we are way over due for an over haul on Both Domestic and Foreign issues. Yes us, Americans, are fed up with our government.

The bottom line is......We still love our country, and as a majority we love our God.
NERVUN
18-09-2006, 13:50
Those 3 words mean that much. Wow. What an interpretation
Really? Because THAT is what I hear, over and over again whenever those words are said because that is the context.

Listen to the next politican that invokes it and you'll hear them.
Meath Street
18-09-2006, 13:50
And Yes Americans are filled with Pride and I see that as a very good thing.
That is not a good thing. It blinds them to their own flaws. If Americans were as Christian as they claim they wouldn't support warmongering. Humility is an important aspect of living a moral life.

If you don't hate and truly like Americans then why do I recieve the 3rd degree when I say God Bless America.

Saying "the world bashes us because they're jealous" is really stupid. You can't justiufy such incorrect opinions.

And how dare you be so arrogant as to proclaim yourselves to be the modern day chosen people?
Cabra West
18-09-2006, 13:51
Takes all kinds then, but I still thought they were good movies.

Hmmm.... Batman Begins was good too, does that count?

"Princess Mononoke" was good. "Goodbye Lenin" was good. "Black cat, white cat" was good. "Whalerider" was good. "Was tun wenn's brennt" was really good. "Sonnenallee" was really good. ;)

I did see Batman begins, but it's really just looking at pictures, not much of a story. "A nice screensaver" as a friend of mine put it. That doesn't make it bad, but it's not enough to make it good in my book.
NERVUN
18-09-2006, 13:53
"Princess Mononoke" was good. "Goodbye Lenin" was good. "Black cat, white cat" was good. "Whalerider" was good. "Was tun wenn's brennt" was really good. "Sonnenallee" was really good. ;)

I did see Batman begins, but it's really just looking at pictures, not much of a story. "A nice screensaver" as a friend of mine put it. That doesn't make it bad, but it's not enough to make it good in my book.
Damn... this is like debating about movies with my wife. I like sci-fi and she likes romances... hmm... :p
Cabra West
18-09-2006, 13:55
Damn... this is like debating about movies with my wife. I like sci-fi and she likes romances... hmm... :p

There's no accounting for taste, but there is such a thing as quality ;)
Rambhutan
18-09-2006, 13:56
"Princess Mononoke" was good. "Goodbye Lenin" was good. "Black cat, white cat" was good. "Whalerider" was good. "Was tun wenn's brennt" was really good. "Sonnenallee" was really good. ;)

I did see Batman begins, but it's really just looking at pictures, not much of a story. "A nice screensaver" as a friend of mine put it. That doesn't make it bad, but it's not enough to make it good in my book.

Careful, they might do American remakes of them
Emminger
18-09-2006, 13:57
and as for our elections we the People can't help it that money talks. We need an Average Joe in office but the truth of the matter is if you don't have money how the hell can you get into office.

We had 2 real choices on the ballot for the presidency. So we had two evils and we chose the lesser of the two evils.

If an average Joe was to get on the ballot somehow some way I'd vote for him.
Fartsniffage
18-09-2006, 14:00
And how dare you be so arrogant as to proclaim yourselves to be the modern day chosen people?

Hell let them claim it. The Jews tried that on a few thousand years ago and look it the ride they've had :p
Allers
18-09-2006, 14:01
stop!
you should take your weapon and claim you right to be free.
i thought it was writen in your constitution
Emminger
18-09-2006, 14:03
just making my case stronger when you continually misinterpret and add words and meanings together.

Take it for what it is....

May God Bless America!!!:)
German Nightmare
18-09-2006, 14:03
Right, Just like the German people ran Hitler out?

We dont have any more power than the Germans did...

By the way, you people in other countries should probably be thankful that Bush ISN'T Hitler, or Stalin, or we would be knocking over your governments and seizing anything of value that you have.

Be thankful Bush isnt quite as much as of a monster as those two.
No, but he has the same kind of blatant disregard when it comes to the country's laws, doesn't he?
At least enough people tried in Germany and paid with their lives. If that doesn't count as an effort, what else might? And please don't forget the July 20 plot.
I have yet to see some real opposition in the U.S. - and it's not even a dictatorship (yet).
Only a year and a half left to go now. :)
Fast forward, please?
Actually this thread seems to be mainly stuck on bashing America so I felt that as my patriotic duty to show a bit of American support. As far as I know it isn't against intn'l law to show your country a bit of support. When so many of you are stuck on hating America.
and again I say God Bless America
Since when does International Law mean anything to the U.S. or its citizens?
Well, I would call myself a christian, meaning a strong believer in God and Jesus Christ. I don't really attend the church services because they seemingly, in my own opinion are losing their reputation.

Also, if I recall correctly, God does mention how you need to respect and abide by your nations law. And Yes Americans are filled with Pride and I see that as a very good thing.
Then Bush is a godless heathen! And I would be ashamed to be a citizen of the U.S. in these times, not take pride in it.
Deep Kimchi
18-09-2006, 14:03
Don't confuse Bush-bashing with America-bashing.

America bashing by Europeans = European Nationalism
Aelosia
18-09-2006, 14:05
America bashing by Europeans = European Nationalism

And when it is done by non-europeans?

Other-World Nationalism?
German Nightmare
18-09-2006, 14:06
And when it is done by non-europeans?

Other-World Nationalism?

Forget it - it's DK...
Allers
18-09-2006, 14:06
America bashing by Europeans = European Nationalism
nop! imperialism bashing is about history,
Rambhutan
18-09-2006, 14:06
and as for our elections we the People can't help it that money talks. We need an Average Joe in office but the truth of the matter is if you don't have money how the hell can you get into office.

We had 2 real choices on the ballot for the presidency. So we had two evils and we chose the lesser of the two evils.

If an average Joe was to get on the ballot somehow some way I'd vote for him.

Sorry are you arguing that America is a corrupt country that cannot run a fair democratic process? Are you defending America or bashing it?
Deep Kimchi
18-09-2006, 14:07
And when it is done by non-europeans?

Other-World Nationalism?

Exactly.
German Nightmare
18-09-2006, 14:07
Sorry are you arguing that America is a corrupt country that cannot run a fair democratic process? Are you defending America or bashing it?
What is that U.S. de-mock-racy you're talking about?
Allers
18-09-2006, 14:10
Exactly.
explain
Aelosia
18-09-2006, 14:11
explain

My bet is that we're not going to get a clear explanation of that.
Emminger
18-09-2006, 14:12
Sorry are you arguing that America is a corrupt country that cannot run a fair democratic process? Are you defending America or bashing it?

I am simply saying in layman terms, that America is filled with imperfections but is overall a Great Country.

I'm just getting tired of hearing the world whine and cry about their own misinterpetations and misguided corrupt thinking of America, their People, and their Government.

I don't know if I can say this any simpler so that the world may understand it better...but I'll try.....America in NOT perfect as you claim us as saying....America's government needs a major over haul, this we know....America is still, to this day, a Great Nation....America, overall, Is far more good than evil.....American People are GREAT people and may "God Bless America!"
Deep Kimchi
18-09-2006, 14:13
explain

I think it's pretty obvious. Anyone who complains about America is offering their own system as a paragon of international virtue, and since every person thinks that they way they live is the only way to live, then they are trumpeting their own way of life, their own culture, and their own country (and their own cause - say, Socialism or Islam or whatever strikes their fancy).

Inescapable.
Mythador
18-09-2006, 14:13
I will keep it short and sweet... Bush is an idiot yes... America has made plenty of bad decisions yes...

But then again... all the rest of the world has still made a hell of a lot more bad decisions than we have... Why? Cause your all still 2nd and 3rd world countries in comparison to us. So I dont care if you guys bash America... anyone who cant walk the walk sure as hell should at least TRY to talk the talk...

And FYI, if we were half as undiplomatic and tyranical as all you say we are... we would have nuked the rest of your countries under-nourished asses long ago...

Suck it... :sniper:
Allers
18-09-2006, 14:15
My bet is that we're not going to get a clear explanation of that.

Americans more likely to be shot by law enforcement than killed by terrorists

my bet too
Fartsniffage
18-09-2006, 14:19
I am simply saying in layman terms, that America is filled with imperfections but is overall a Great Country.

I'm just getting tired of hearing the world whine and cry about their own misinterpetations and misguided corrupt thinking of America, their People, and their Government.

I don't know if I can say this any simpler so that the world may understand it better...but I'll try.....America in NOT perfect as you claim us as saying....America's government needs a major over haul, this we know....America is still, to this day, a Great Nation....America, overall, Is far more good than evil.....American People are GREAT people and may "God Bless America!"

America behaves in a way that serves it's own national interest and that fine, most, if not all, nations foreign policy it designed to do exactly the same thing. You just shouldn't be surprised when the rest of the world thinks you are a bunch of arrogant asholes when that self serving foreign policy results in you bombing their house.

*snip*

When I first arrived I thought that first post gun smilie thing was a bit of a standing joke but not really the truth, day by day I'm proved more wrong.
Aelosia
18-09-2006, 14:21
I think it's pretty obvious. Anyone who complains about America is offering their own system as a paragon of international virtue, and since every person thinks that they way they live is the only way to live, then they are trumpeting their own way of life, their own culture, and their own country (and their own cause - say, Socialism or Islam or whatever strikes their fancy).

Inescapable.

Entirely mistaken.

No, my country is a hellhole, and I am lately growing more used to bash it. But I do not think of the United States of America as a better place (and I am lately growing more prone to bash it too). For me it is equal of worst.

Was your argument a rule, an axiom or a theory?
German Nightmare
18-09-2006, 14:21
I will keep it short and sweet... Bush is an idiot yes... America has made plenty of bad decisions yes...

But then again... all the rest of the world has still made a hell of a lot more bad decisions than we have... Why? Cause your all still 2nd and 3rd world countries in comparison to us. So I dont care if you guys bash America... anyone who cant walk the walk sure as hell should at least TRY to talk the talk...

And FYI, if we were half as undiplomatic and tyranical as all you say we are... we would have nuked the rest of your countries under-nourished asses long ago...

Suck it... :sniper:
How cute. And you also didn't forget to include a gun-smiley. (See, Fartsniffage - they really do exist! Just saw your post up there...)
Boonytopia
18-09-2006, 14:23
*snip*

When I first arrived I thought that first post gun smilie thing was a bit of a standing joke but not really the truth, day by day I'm proved more wrong.

Do not underestimate the unholy alliance that is the first post & the gun smiley. It seems to have a resonance all its own.
Aelosia
18-09-2006, 14:25
I will keep it short and sweet... Bush is an idiot yes... America has made plenty of bad decisions yes...

But then again... all the rest of the world has still made a hell of a lot more bad decisions than we have... Why? Cause your all still 2nd and 3rd world countries in comparison to us. So I dont care if you guys bash America... anyone who cant walk the walk sure as hell should at least TRY to talk the talk...

Why always the only argument in the US citizens repertory when you bash their country is comparative? Sounds like an abuse of the Ad homine fallacy.

2nd and 3rd world accorsing to your categorization, good lad. I mean, US citizens categorization.

And FYI, if we were half as undiplomatic and tyranical as all you say we are... we would have nuked the rest of your countries under-nourished asses long ago...

Suck it... :sniper:

And you would had died in a cloud of nuclear waste, freezing in eternal winter. That would be an improvement.

Your attitude of "Suck it", alongside with the use of a gun smilie, is not going to either help your argument, (because it is strangely similar to the attitude that helps a lot of people around the world to hate you), or improve your station on this forums, but meh.

1st post. Whoah.
Deep Kimchi
18-09-2006, 14:26
Entirely mistaken.

No, my country is a hellhole, and I am lately growing more used to bash it. But I do not think of the United States of America as a better place (and I am lately growing more prone to bash it too). For me it is equal of worst.

Was your argument a rule, an axiom or a theory?

Hypothesis. It works to describe most bashers. But not, apparently, in your case.

Of course, you and I probably share a more cynical view of the nature of government and the nature of power than some people.
Aelosia
18-09-2006, 14:32
Hypothesis. It works to describe most bashers. But not, apparently, in your case.

Of course, you and I probably share a more cynical view of the nature of government and the nature of power than some people.

Cynical, indeed.

Point taken, I concur.

This is going to sound sooo wrong but, How else you can expect people that have never tasted power to understand how it is like, how it smells, looks, and tastes?

Once you aproach that line and sadly have a taste, you can only keep the cynical view.
Emminger
18-09-2006, 14:34
America behaves in a way that serves it's own national interest and that fine, most, if not all, nations foreign policy it designed to do exactly the same thing. You just shouldn't be surprised when the rest of the world thinks you are a bunch of arrogant asholes when that self serving foreign policy results in you bombing their house.

No surprises, not at all. It actually should be expected from the so very arrogant world.:D
Deep Kimchi
18-09-2006, 14:37
Cynical, indeed.

Point taken, I concur.

This is going to sound sooo wrong but, How else you can expect people that have never tasted power to understand how it is like, how it smells, looks, and tastes?

Once you aproach that line and sadly have a taste, you can only keep the cynical view.

If you haven't read it yet, pick up a copy of Donald Kagan's "On The Origins Of War And The Presevation Of Peace"

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donald_Kagan

It's a simple history book, but reading it can give you nightmares, if you watch the evening news at the same time.
IL Ruffino
18-09-2006, 14:44
Seriously that's how ever god damn thread ends on this forum. Like we're the source the all the worlds problems. I'm tired of taking heat for my governments string of shitty descisions, and then being stereotyped accordingly. The world sees my country as a bunch of fat ignorant assholes, with to much money and time.Meanwhile America's citizen are for the most part like everyone else. I'm sure all of your countries governments have fucked up numerous times aswell, stop complaining, it's not like we're a dictorship or terrorist group. We're more of the asshole friend that everyone talks about about behind their backs :)

America does suck!
Aelosia
18-09-2006, 14:44
If you haven't read it yet, pick up a copy of Donald Kagan's "On The Origins Of War And The Presevation Of Peace"

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donald_Kagan

It's a simple history book, but reading it can give you nightmares, if you watch the evening news at the same time.

Indeed an interesting title. Actually the most interesting alongside the ones that appear in the wikilist.

He's defined as a fierce neoconservative, although...That could prove interesting. If I ever ran into a copy (not quite probably), I'll give it a try.

Your bashing of the news hits on so many personal levels...We just sell a high profile product, why are we so guilty of giving the public exactly what they are looking for? :p
Deep Kimchi
18-09-2006, 14:45
Indeed an interesting title. Actually the most interesting alongside the ones that appear in the wikilist.

He's defined as a fierce neoconservative, although...That could prove interesting. If I ever ran into a copy (not quite probably), I'll give it a try.

Your bashing of the news hits on so many personal levels...We just sell a high profile product, why are we so guilty of giving the public exactly what they are looking for? :p

Well, in the old days of journalism... ok, William Randolph Hearst was doing the same thing years ago.

There was a brief interlude with Ed Morrow that I was happy with. After that, it was all entertainment and sensationalism again.
Mythador
18-09-2006, 14:52
Your attitude of "Suck it", alongside with the use of a gun smilie, is not going to either help your argument, (because it is strangely similar to the attitude that helps a lot of people around the world to hate you), or improve your station on this forums, but meh.

1st post. Whoah.

Haha. Well a couple notes on that, wether I keep an argument "clean" or "dirty" you people would still complain about America cause you cant keep up. And secondly, Im not here to raise my social status with you all, so I dont give 2 shits if you dont like what I say.

And stick to the point Aelosia...

America has made PLENTY of mistakes... but every other country sure as hell has made MANY MANY MANY more if you want to start comparing countries.

Out of curiosity, what country are you from? Or are you not going to tell me? Ahh... come on... you know you wanna...

Oh and to stick to the American sterotyping...

"2nds are always good...."

suck it.... :mp5:
Urikistan
18-09-2006, 14:55
America has made PLENTY of mistakes... but every other country sure as hell has made MANY MANY MANY more if you want to start comparing countries.


http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/7769/iminurhistorynj5.jpg
Boonytopia
18-09-2006, 14:57
*snip*

Oh and to stick to the American sterotyping...

"2nds are always good...."

suck it.... :mp5:

Impressive, you must be considered a real thinker in your town. You've used a gun smiley in your second post too! :rolleyes:
Mythador
18-09-2006, 14:58
Im still waiting on the punchline for that joke I guess...
Fartsniffage
18-09-2006, 14:59
Im still waiting on the punchline for that joke I guess...

n00bs always seem to use a gun smilie in their first post and it makes them look daft so we laugh at them.
Mythador
18-09-2006, 15:01
Impressive, you must be considered a real thinker in your town. You've used a gun smiley in your second post too! :rolleyes:

Haha. Well I do own several corporations developing software for worldwide distribution. (Who knows... maybe you like playing my games...) Wouldnt that be ironic?

I notice you guys can only respond to me posting a gun toting smiley face... Tell me what country you are from and we can do a little history comparison and see where we all line up... Come on... you know you wanna...
Mythador
18-09-2006, 15:02
n00bs always seem to use a gun smilie in their first post and it makes them look daft so we laugh at them.

If thats the case thank God I missed that punchline and dont visit these forums enough to understand it. Some of us have lives I guess huh?
Fartsniffage
18-09-2006, 15:03
Haha. Well I do own several corporations developing software for worldwide distribution. (Who knows... maybe you like playing my games...) Wouldnt that be ironic?

I notice you guys can only respond to me posting a gun toting smiley face... Tell me what country you are from and we can do a little history comparison and see where we all line up... Come on... you know you wanna...

Give me a call when your country has been around longer than any of the houses I've lived in and then we'll talk.
Hamilay
18-09-2006, 15:03
Haha. Well I do own several corporations developing software for worldwide distribution. (Who knows... maybe you like playing my games...) Wouldnt that be ironic?

I notice you guys can only respond to me posting a gun toting smiley face... Tell me what country you are from and we can do a little history comparison and see where we all line up... Come on... you know you wanna...
Oh dear. That would explain a lot about online gaming today.
Anyway, other countries have made more mistakes than America? Fine then. I accept your challenge, sah. Australia? Britain?
Boonytopia
18-09-2006, 15:04
Haha. Well I do own several corporations developing software for worldwide distribution. (Who knows... maybe you like playing my games...) Wouldnt that be ironic?

I notice you guys can only respond to me posting a gun toting smiley face... Tell me what country you are from and we can do a little history comparison and see where we all line up... Come on... you know you wanna...

<--- My country's no secret, it's right there.

See where we all line up in regards to what exactly?
Fartsniffage
18-09-2006, 15:04
If thats the case thank God I missed that punchline and dont visit these forums enough to understand it. Some of us have lives I guess huh?

Nice, you're new around here and you try to insult the rest of us by implying that we have no lives because you made a faux pas and are embarrased about it.
Mythador
18-09-2006, 15:04
Give me a call when your country has been around longer than any of the houses I've lived in and then we'll talk.

TRANSLATION: Im not going to tell you what country Im from cause you can chew my ass out with the shit load of mistakes we have made.
Fartsniffage
18-09-2006, 15:06
TRANSLATION: Im not going to tell you what country Im from cause you can chew my ass out with the shit load of mistakes we have made.

Look at the location tab doofus, I've never made a secret about it.

<----------------<<
Emminger
18-09-2006, 15:06
Oh dear. That would explain a lot about online gaming today.
Anyway, other countries have made more mistakes than America? Fine then. I accept your challenge, sah. Australia? Britain?

Britain did make a disastrous mistake invading the farmers of the new world. :D
Emminger
18-09-2006, 15:11
Also as History has claimed the title to occupying other nations does indeed belong to Great Britain They have occupied a hell of a lot more nations than the USA has.
Aelosia
18-09-2006, 15:12
Haha. Well a couple notes on that, wether I keep an argument "clean" or "dirty" you people would still complain about America cause you cant keep up. And secondly, Im not here to raise my social status with you all, so I dont give 2 shits if you dont like what I say.

And stick to the point Aelosia...

America has made PLENTY of mistakes... but every other country sure as hell has made MANY MANY MANY more if you want to start comparing countries.

Out of curiosity, what country are you from? Or are you not going to tell me? Ahh... come on... you know you wanna...

Oh and to stick to the American sterotyping...

"2nds are always good...."

suck it.... :mp5:

I was just warning you. Just that.

I can keep up, I live better than a lot of "americans". And I don't buy the "us and them" crap. There are no "we" and not "they". I speak in singular pronouns, such as "I", or "me". Helps me to keep my individuality, that I price a lot.

I am from America, just a different part of America than you, it seems. I am currently living in Venezuela.

Side Note: I didn't get the "american stereotyping" part, too much local knowledge for me.
Mythador
18-09-2006, 15:13
And Australia for an unexciting country has been known to make a few boo-boo's....

Like ummm... slaughtering the natives...

"In the initial British invasion of Australia indigenous peoples were slaughtered on a grand scale. In Tasmania between 1804 and 1834, the Aboriginal population was reduced from an estimated 5000 people to just 200. This represented a 90% reduction in just 30 years."

90%... wow...

MY POINT = You country has made just as many mistakes as mine (if not many many more...) and America has clearly made many more RIGHT decisions than yours has or your country would be the superpower of the world.
Fartsniffage
18-09-2006, 15:15
And Australia for an unexciting country has been known to make a few boo-boo's....

Like ummm... slaughtering the natives...

"In the initial British invasion of Australia indigenous peoples were slaughtered on a grand scale. In Tasmania between 1804 and 1834, the Aboriginal population was reduced from an estimated 5000 people to just 200. This represented a 90% reduction in just 30 years."

90%... wow...

MY POINT = You country has made just as many mistakes as mine (if not many many more...) and America has clearly made many more RIGHT decisions than yours has or your country would be the superpower of the world.

Because Americas superpower status has nothing at all to do with its plethora of natural rescources or it's massive areas of agriculturally viable land?
Szanth
18-09-2006, 15:16
And Australia for an unexciting country has been known to make a few boo-boo's....

Like ummm... slaughtering the natives...

"In the initial British invasion of Australia indigenous peoples were slaughtered on a grand scale. In Tasmania between 1804 and 1834, the Aboriginal population was reduced from an estimated 5000 people to just 200. This represented a 90% reduction in just 30 years."

90%... wow...

MY POINT = You country has made just as many mistakes as mine (if not many many more...) and America has clearly made many more RIGHT decisions than yours has or your country would be the superpower of the world.

The difference being I'm pretty sure they didn't make that into a national holiday.
Aelosia
18-09-2006, 15:18
Mythador is a "Guide to find Ten Reasons to Hate and Bash the USA. For Dummies".

I cannot find why we are arguing on why we bash "America" when he is giving out exactly why we do. Let's give up, and let him totally own the thread.
Politeia utopia
18-09-2006, 15:18
I really like Americans they have a great sense of humour, and I really like the comedians they elects as their presidents.

But why give them all that power?

Methinks God might be a comedian as well :p