Talking America

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• 1. At 03:29am on 13 Oct 2008, jonkellyusa wrote:

  If anyone wants to post up any burger recipes, be my guest. papabryant and christianleft, I'm counting on you here.

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• 2. At 03:41am on 13 Oct 2008, dennisjunior1 wrote:

  Jon:
  If i had a great burger recipes i would be more than willing to put on...

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• 3. At 03:58am on 13 Oct 2008, StarWrecker wrote:

  Fast food restaurants like McDonald's typically use standard hamburger meat which has a much higher fat content than steak. You can save yourself the obesity by skipping the McDonald's and making your own hamburgers at home. Ground Sirloin is available at any grocery store nationwide right next to the hamburger for about a quarter more per pound. Ground Sirloin has the same fat content as steak and is tastier. You can still enjoy that hamburger!

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• 4. At 04:02am on 13 Oct 2008, Y_K_Hui wrote:

  I really commend these teenagers. Cory Jarvis is so right, for example, while much of the media (NYT, NPR, etc.) intentionally and otherwise project a negative and wrong image of America in the world. The U.S. troops did not occupy and terrorize Iraq but liberated them from a tyrant and are working to improve the lives of the people there.
  
  I wish the U.S. can do that in Sudan and North Korea as well, but the U.S. just cannot do it all. The Africans and the South Koreans can do more than what they have done.

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• 5. At 04:05am on 13 Oct 2008, TinyRI wrote:

  Stopping at New York City is leaving a great deal of the country, and it has differing foods from the rest of the areas, makes your trip incomplete.
  Try Dynamites in Woonsocket,
  Linguica and Chourese in any of the many good Portuguese areas (spelling is not accurate)
  Real clam chowder and clam cakes,
  I could go on but do wish you would try New England.
  We are no longer mad at the Tories and I am sure we would welcome you with open arms.
  Physical type, not muskets.
  
  Regards
  Bob G. Lincoln, R. I.
  TinyRI

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• 6. At 04:32am on 13 Oct 2008, Uriel wrote:

  It's linguica and chourico, TinyRI. (The final c's both have the little squiggles under them that make them into S-sounds. And chourico is pronounced as you spell it -- without the final O.) Being of Portuguese descent myself, I grew up on them. Didn't like 'em much, though. Don't tell my family, though -- I'd be out of the will!
  
  I think the key to a good homemade burger is to mix the salt, pepper, and whatever other spices you like into the meat with your fingers, and then make a ball and flatten it out. So much more flavorful! My mom makes a killer burger with hoisin sauce in it, topped with bleu cheese. Mmmmmmm!

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• 7. At 04:33am on 13 Oct 2008, olivia724 wrote:

  I'm sad that the conclusion that not all Americans are idiots is so surprising. The fact that some American teenagers have opinions about stuff is really so revelatory? It's not as if they've said anything very amazing. I'm 18, I'm far more liberal than Obama but that's who I'm voting for, I've been out of the country numerous times (to coutries in Europe and South America), I read BBC because I like to know how things are perceived without American political biases, and I'm very interested in how the world perceives Americans. And by the way, I'm a vegan. I eat veggie burgers very occasionally. Burgers are not part of the regular diet of anyone I know. I cook my own meals, and when I eat out I usually go for Asian cuisines.
  
  My thoughts about the country.... I love my country. I do. I'm very proud to be American. But that does not mean I agree with its politics. I don't think we should be at war. I think that if we are going to make a pretense of being interested in just helping people out or being "liberators," then we should be someplace like Darfur. I would like the world to have a better opinion of our country. But when I have been among young people from other countries (both when I studied in Germany and foreigners in this country) I am always met with interest and heard good things. Pretty much all the young people I knew in Germany were envious of my being from California. I have classes currently with a number of students from various places in Europe, and they speak of the opportunities here and the desire to stay here. So I think you get some interesting conflicts.

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• 8. At 04:56am on 13 Oct 2008, Tiffany76 wrote:

  I too am a vegetarian, one of the worst sorts in the U.S.- I don't eat meat and I live in Southern California by a beach! :)
  
  Our country is so diverse from state to state and the current state of the U.S. worries me.
  
  I read BBC News because it is the most unbiased I have found. This blog confirmed a lot of what I believe the rest of the world thinks about.
  
  The majority of us do not agree with what Bush has done. The majority of us do not want someone from his political party in the seat again. (At least according to the polls).
  
  Most of us don't want us to be in this war, blame our administration for the economic downfall and really want what most people want. We want peace, steady employment, a house, and a future for our kids.
  
  When I think of what other countries probably think of America, based on what I think about America, I am almost ashamed. I love my country and I wouldn't want to be anywhere else, but I am embarrassed by our behavior to say the least.
  
  Thank you for a well spoken blog.

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• 9. At 05:03am on 13 Oct 2008, mikebmcl wrote:

  It's interesting, and telling, that the "symbol" of America is the hamburger. It is a food born of immigrants from Germany and modified over time for easy consumption by American workers. Like many so-called American things, it is an amalgam of concepts, blended together.
  
  As to the concept of it being a disc of beef between two buns and smothered with relish, I must object. First, it is a disc of ground beef of varied dimensions. In its most basic form it is stuck between halves of a single bun. The meat is usually topped with ketchup and a few disc-shaped slices of picked cucumber. Often it is also topped with a few leaves of lettuce and a slice or two of tomato. Sometimes, prepared mustard is added; sometimes mayonaisse; sometimes both. It it is a cheese burger, a slice of American cheese is traditionally added to the top of the burger patty just before it is finished cooking, allowing the cheese to melt slightly.
  
  But the only consistency in burgers that I have ever met is the ground beef patty in between two halves of a bun. Beyond that, I've met every topping from grilled mushrooms and swiss cheese to bleu cheese and bacon to just about anything else that may taste good in combination. I have yet to meet a burger topped with relish (by which I mean diced, pickled cucumbers sometimes accompanies by other spices or herbs).

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• 10. At 05:08am on 13 Oct 2008, Joooo2002 wrote:

  I recently took a car touring vacation in western USA for 5 weeks from my home in Thailand (I am from the UK). My only previous visit was 30 years ago in the east, which i did not really enjoy. This time was different - I thoroughly enjoyed the american west - the countryside and scenery were spectacular and the people very fine. However, the food was appalling. I only ate one hamburger from McDonalds and the rest of the food I ate was fairly standard american fare. Most of the food americans eat is way too unhealthy - not only the cookies and donuts etc, but even mid-range restaurants have meals that stress quantity rather than quality. I really missed Thai food, with its freshness and green vegetables. I now understand why so many americans are obese.

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• 11. At 05:25am on 13 Oct 2008, brilliantTB wrote:

  I agree with Joooo2002. We did a similar trip back in 1999 and found the same experience with the food. Even fresh fruit was hard to come by in the places we visited. We lived ion bagels, peanut buuter and jam and creamed corn and noodes! Healthy, eh?

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• 12. At 05:32am on 13 Oct 2008, Eutectics wrote:

  More of this sort of stuff please! Anything to break out of American introspection.
  
  What is it someone once said
  
  'People never do evil so cheerfully or completely as when they do it from religious conviction"
  
  "They think we're a bunch of violent people," Cory added. "But we're over there to help them."
  
  

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• 13. At 05:42am on 13 Oct 2008, sunlion11 wrote:

  I think it's sad that the US is known internationally for it's fast food chains and it's desire for war. While there are those aspects of the US, there are many, many American's who don't value these things and who have heart for the well being of animals and people by not supporting places like McDonalds or KFC who deliberately hurt animals and under pay employees just to "keep costs low"; not to mention the war. Anyway, I just think it's too bad the way others view the US because there are people with heart and integrity in the US and they should be acknowledged as well. Even though they may not consist of a large percentage of the total US population.
  

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• 14. At 05:42am on 13 Oct 2008, Wil wrote:

  I personally have some American friends that travel out of America. They are straight forward and nice, once you get used to their sense of jokes.
  
  However, America herself is not protraying the same image as I know of my friends.
  
  The America of recent years protrays herself as the biggest bully and has no sense of empathy. The iraq war was suppose to be self defense against WMD. However, when IAEA and UN informs US that iraq might not have WMD just before the war. The information was suppress and war declared. The world realise that the war is more than self defense, especially when the oil companies pump oil without a meter in the beginning.
  
  Then with recent Election in America, the world see a big group of Americans as being very closed in their mindset and their chosen leader are willing to lie for power. What is the differences between this group and some of the muslims organisation in iran? They are both closed minded and willing to destory the other for their objective.
  
  I really hope for the sake of America and the world that Obama wins and that he deliveries what he promise. And maybe in a decade or two, America can repair the damage done by Bush and retake the image of liberty.

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• 15. At 06:06am on 13 Oct 2008, Neo Politicus wrote:

  What's amazing about Europeans (and I know it's an insult to lump the British in with them) is that they think we care. Europe is irrelevant and moribund. Europeans grew fat and lazy under US protection during the Cold War. They have no principles and are not even willing to fight for their own survival. Soon enough we'll be eating our hamburgers while watching Europe's cities burning on CNN.

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• 16. At 06:12am on 13 Oct 2008, thingirlsrus wrote:

  Don't think Americans are the only people who are bombarded with the hamburger and all it's advertising. We here in Australia get it too. The ads for these companies run night and day. We are not happy about it but we are constantly shown happy people enjoying a hamburger in a fast food restaurant. They are made to look like the typical Aussie family enjoying a family dinner together. What a joke. The actors for these commercials are all young and thin and look reasonably healthy but we as a nation are now called the "Fattest Nation on Earth"
  Ha! I say. But then who is to blame. The advertisers for these companies? or the fact that Families don't have a lot of time to shop, prepare and cook a healthy dinner each night. Where the man used to work, now the wife has to work too. So who gets to stay home and cook? Not me.

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• 17. At 06:15am on 13 Oct 2008, JackBP2001 wrote:

  Traveling through Europe this summer as a 19 year old American confirmed a suspicion I had previously held. That Europeans stereotype Americans. As someone that is very critical of American society, particularly the trend of politics since World War 2, I accepted these stereotypes as something that is sad but not surprising. I don't necessarily blame people for these opinions, but they are still uninformed and unfair. Throughout my trip I considered it my duty to reverse anyones negative stereotypes of today's Americans.
  
  My dad moved from England to America when he was 30. Obviously, he taught me things that many other American children don't benefit from. Things like the importance of being wary of ethnocentrism, skeptic of the media, and skeptic of politics. It seems like many Europeans hold their stereotypes due to the fact that Americans elected George Bush not once, but twice. I must admit, this left me scratching my head as well. But thats just the point. Many, many, many Americans do not support Bush or any of his policies. He just barely won a majority in 2004, and he didn't win in 2000. The problem lies not in the people, but in the government that has slowly but purposefully moved against democratic ideals. The Republican party was able to turn the 2004 election into a fight for morals (abortion, gay marriage ect). They knew that if people voted based on the real issues, such as the war, the outsourcing of jobs, the corporitization of America and the widening wealth gap, and the many other real issues that I could continue to name, that they would lose the election. In fact, it would be a landslide loss.
  
  It is true, there are many ignorant Americans. There are people that get their news from Fox and that really believe that Obama is a terrorist because his name rhymes with Osama. There are people that voted for Bush even after he lied to us about Iraq because he was against abortion. But what many don't realize, and what this blog is attempting to point out, is that there also exist millions of young, brilliant Americans that know the truth and are trying to change the world. America was created based on the ideals of freedom and equality, which means the foundation of America is the greatest in the world. The problem is, our society has never truly prescribed to these ideals. But let me assure you, there is still hope. There are those of us that want America to finally become what the rhetoric of our constitution laid out for us. There are those of us that want to spend our tax dollars on inner city education, aid relief to africa, ect and not on national defense and the Iraq war.
  
  Again, the real problem is not the American people. The problems are the greedy CEOs, the corrupt politicians, and all the others that have manipulated the democratic system for their benefit. The problem is the "American Dream" that has been drilled into every Americans head. The idea that buying that nice car or that nice house in the suburbs or that diamond ring will bring you happiness. The problem is that most politicians don't care about the African Americans in the ghettos. "Statistics show they don't vote, so why should my policies help them?" The problem is the lack of accurate news that is readily available to us. Most people don't get their news from BBC or Al Jazeera. I could go on and on, but the problems of this society run much deeper than just a simple ignorance on the part of its people.
  
  I apologize for the length and lack of organization of this post, but I'm procrastinating on a paper about the portrayals of the Iraq war found on BBC compared to Fox News so I'm in the mood to vent.

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• 18. At 06:23am on 13 Oct 2008, Grrrlie wrote:

  Containerized 'farming' with its attendant horrendous pollution via 'lakes' of manure, tons of antibiotic drugs, and endless torture of animals, are the PRIMARY means of raising meat in the USA, not the exceptions. And the devastation of forests and stripping of the land for beef throughout South American countries e.g. the Amazon is all to 'feed' the burger addiction here in the USA and around the world. I stopped eating any meat or consuming any dairy products - all the product of torturous factory-farming practices and extreme use of chemicals and antibiotics. My health has improved greatly; and I encourage others to do the same. Meat & dairy farming are major contributors to global warming, to terrible pollution. And now in Minnesota where I lie, we've had to had a town's population evacuated due to health risks from the sewage 'ponds' and other exudates from their local factory 'farm' industry. TIME FOR CHANGE TO SUSTAINABLE EATING HABITS: local produce wherever possible, and mostly vegan eating habits.

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• 19. At 06:28am on 13 Oct 2008, Naheed wrote:

  I have also noticed this more than many times that when you think of hamburgers, America clicks to the mind instantly. Speaking of the role of America in Iraq and Afghanistan, I among those who highly disagree with the president.

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• 20. At 06:33am on 13 Oct 2008, michaelchunt wrote:

  JACK BP that is all well and good, but in the Internet age how come we hear so little of the sane side of America? The European media, if your comments are exact, would surely pounce on any chance to recruit American Youth to their side?
  As for the blog..again, this is all fine, but why don't we ask the direct questions that we need to know? Will Obama finally once and for all perform a proper investigation into 911 and let us see some EVIDENCE from both sides? When will the Senate FINALLY get tough on the Military Budget instead of us having to listen to the rubbish that McCain and Palin talk about? And if the American people are not responsible for Bush per se, are these the only candidates out of 150 million people available? Why do they continually receive support? And can we FINALLY PLEASE define DEMOCRACY?
  These are the reasons the US has a bad name abroad, simply hypocrisy and bad management. It's the same with the Arab League countries, so who's to blame when all the apples are bad? THE BAD APPLES ARE.

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• 21. At 06:41am on 13 Oct 2008, jalexmedeiros wrote:

  I from Brazil, and when I was at school the most of teachers used to give us de idea that all the ours problems was due to The American Imperialism. Is that true that North Americans has helped the military dictatorship, in Brazil between 1960-1984. On the other hand put the guilty for every trouble that we have in them is too much.
  My advice to country that think the same, is that solve yours problems by themselves e leave the Americans with their problems.
  
  Thank´s
  (Obrigado)

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• 22. At 07:25am on 13 Oct 2008, bigbri91 wrote:

  Why do people dislike president bush so much? I beleive that the answer to that question lies in the medias represintation of him as a bumbling fool. While at the same time they accuse him of masterminding the iraq war, i fond this highly ironic. President bush is far from an idiot but rather a great president who stands but his convictions and does what he believes is best for AMERICA not the world becuase he is president of AMERICA. which brings us back to why the world hates Preident Bush, it is because he does not care what the international community thinks, he will not allow the greatest and most powerful country in known to man to be controlled by a group of thugs that the world calls the UN. Europeans are never willing to stand up for there nation(with the exception of GB) france was invaded and controlled by foreign nations twice in a 50 year span. Why is it that when there is a crisis somewhere in the world the US is always first in the scene or when a nation is in turmoil they ask for help from us it is because we are a great nation that does not and never will need permission to do what is right and in the end the Iraq war will be right and the world will thank none other than President George Bush. So my message to europe is be proud of your counties dont feel the need to be part of the world community but be a part of your nation and then you will have a glimpse into how americans love there county.

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• 23. At 07:34am on 13 Oct 2008, cambones wrote:

  Why sweat the fact that America is known for the hamburger/ chicken. It has given a living to millions worldwide.
  Everybody knows America has a wide and diverse menu.
  People, the success of these foods is something to take pride in. The PC attitude towards some American food is ridiculous. It is all about freedom and choices. Self disipline is the individuals problem.
  Carl's Jr. has a good guacamole-bacon burger, check it out!

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• 24. At 07:35am on 13 Oct 2008, ladycm wrote:

  Even outside of America there is narrow minded people wherever you go. And yes, there are plenty of narrow minded idoits here. The fact of the matter is that Americans get portrayed very poorly even by our own media. Our government thinks we're stupid and worthless and they always claim that we are "victims" of circumstance; like George Bush's policies etc... But the fact of the matter is, is that we picked him to lead (again). I am hopeful that things will start to turn around once Bush is gone, but the lasting effects of his idiocy and ignorance will last a long time. When it comes down to it, we have terribly long work weeks our companies expect us to devote our lives with little compensation given back. Little vacation, terribly expensive health care that you can't depend on because you get turned down for all of your claims, and not to mention that we have no job security due to many companies outsourcing work. Oh yah, and we're fat and love fast food too much. I think unfortunately a lot of that is true due to the fact that the normal middle class person has no time to cook and spend time with their family anymore. I do love this country but, it is fundamentally flawed. Sorry for the rant but, it's important that the voices of normal American's be heard and that when it comes down to it we are all very similar in our values no matter what country you live in. Most of us just want to be happy and left alone. Right?

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• 25. At 07:54am on 13 Oct 2008, WebPendragon wrote:

  It is sad that the BBC has chosen only correspondants who are fully paid up fans of America ,it's values and way of life.In the interest of balance it would be good to read reports from someone who did not see their role as being to justify America to BBC viewers.I am not asking for hostility,only objectivity.

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• 26. At 07:57am on 13 Oct 2008, Peter Wells wrote:

  From my own experiences in the US, it strikes me that the country is one of such extremes: either you are a fast-foodie dining on unhealthy diner food and hamburgers or you are eating moondust to reach a size zero; either you are in the military-equals-patriotism camp or you are hugging trees; you and everybody around you must be either conservative or "liberal"; you either live in excessive wealth or abject poverty; you are either religious or you are a communist. I know that there are(because I've seen and met) many exceptions to these generalisations, but I've yet to meet anyone who doesn't fit into at least one of these polar opposits. But this doesn't make any American a bad person, or worse than any other nation. The problem is when US policy towards other unknown differences around the world is translated as anti-american and therfore needs to be corrected (often by force). Such policies do then lead the rest of the world into labelling the US (collectively) as ignorant, xenophobic and a bully. Consider this found last week on another BBC Blog "Have your say": "Shelley from the US", wrote: "Go MaCain! Pleeeeeeeease save us from Socialism. I've been to Europe and I don't want to live like those folks!". QED.

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• 27. At 08:09am on 13 Oct 2008, a_bunny wrote:

  Mexico,Guatemala,El Salvador,Honduras
  Nicaragua,Panama,Cuba,Jamaica,Haiti
  Dominican Republic,Puerto Rico,Grenada
  Colombia,Venezuela,Guyana,Suriname
  Ecuador,Peru,Brazil,Bolivia,Chile,Paraguay
  Argentina,Uruguay,Germany,Portugal
  Italy,Yugoslavia,Albania,Greece,Chechnya
  Turkey
  
  A partial list of the countries that the U.S has interfered with since 1945, I left out Africa, Asia and the Middle east
  
  Some estimates put the civilian death toll as high as 20 Million people (Pre Afghanistan/Iraq).
  
  Of course pre 1945 was just as bad and included the Philippines, Hawaii and Cuba 3 times.
  
  As to the "Respect the troops" comment I suppose you could put this in context by saying that during WWII Germans were right in supporting the war,concentration camps and every war crime committed.
  
  Because we support our soldiers.
  
  Like fast food, America and Americans are bad for your health.
  
  
  
  
  
  

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• 28. At 08:25am on 13 Oct 2008, newScrolllock wrote:

  brilliantTB wrote: "I agree with Joooo2002. We did a similar trip back in 1999 and found the same experience with the food. Even fresh fruit was hard to come by in the places we visited. We lived ion bagels, peanut buuter and jam and creamed corn and noodes! Healthy, eh?"
  
  You found "fresh fruit was hard to come by" in America? Are you kidding? Did you and Jooo2002 even bother to get off the highways? Quite a bizarre comment and certainly not the America I know. And by the way, those foods you mentioned are in fact healthy. What is unhealthy is eating to excess. That is the cause of obesity!

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• 29. At 08:41am on 13 Oct 2008, incred_d wrote:

  FAO StarWrecker
  
  Fat doesn't make you fat - excess calories do. Educate yourself before posting rubbish on an internet forum.

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• 30. At 08:41am on 13 Oct 2008, newScrolllock wrote:

  a_bunny wrote:"Like fast food, America and Americans are bad for your health."
  
  That's ok at least America has done more for freedom and democracy than any other country that has probably ever existed in this world. What has Europe done in that regard? Oh yeah, it started the most destructive and highest casualty wars that the world has ever seen. It's were millions of Jews were murdered. It sat and watched the extermination of thousands by Serbia. It is the birthplace of fascism and communism which are both responsible for 10s of millions of dead throughout Europe and the Soviet Union. Yeah, America is so so bad. Right.
  
  
  
  

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• 31. At 08:46am on 13 Oct 2008, CorySchulz wrote:

  I'm American and have live here my whole life and I must say that I am very much disappointed at this culture and its inability to produce quality human beings who are intelligent, aware, and capable individuals. The education systems are underfunded, the media seems to tell people what they want and what type of person they should be, no one understands politics or has any valid political opinions, the music is crap, sports here are lame, the banking and financial system is very corrupt and immoral (especially credit card companies), the government doesn't listen to the people or understand what they want/need, no one appreciates good art, and the food is often times cheap and lacking in flavor and nutritional value.
  
  My whole life it has felt that I am living in a world of ignorant idiots. Idiot politicians making ignorant laws for idiot people who work at their worthless jobs serving ignorant customers who go home to their idiot children who they're ignorantly raising so that their children can grow up and live the same worthless, empty, ungratifying lives of material consumption and financial failure. It's a terrible cultural problem with primitive malfunctions reaching to all common perspectives and extending deeply into the framework of how everyone and everything thinks and functions. The very design of this cultural malfunction is self perpetuative and is frighteningly powerful.
  
  I appreciate all of you countries kindly reminding us Americans that we are broken, but I can assure you that no one is more frustrated and ashamed at the current state of America and its culture than the few people who live here who do happen to be educated and aware and are slowly working to make this country a better place. Unfortunately, progress is slow when you are battling a monster that is both invisible and everywhere.
  -Cory

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• 32. At 09:00am on 13 Oct 2008, watchfuli wrote:

  I'm not an American and before i step on the land i won't really want to form notions abt it especially based on someone else's fact file. But I myself associate 'the hamburger' with American food and i really enjoy the eating experience. Every chance that i get i step into Mc Donald's and grab a bite (well, more than a bite)!! I don't think its bad or unhealthy but as the saying goes "too much of anything is bad". So its on us as to how we manage our diet and indulging oneself every once in a while is not such a bad idea. yummmm....
  
  And as far as the Iraq war is concerned, its a bad political move and the non-deciding Americans are paying for it too, sadly enough. A biasness based on this is like limiting our horizons of understanding. The war is bad, but the Americans are equally suffering, what with the American soldiers giving their lives!! Its the sad state of decision making that sometimes (i'd say mostly) impacts the public to irreparable extents.

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• 33. At 09:00am on 13 Oct 2008, Schwerpunkt wrote:

  26. Peter Wells wrote:
  
  "Consider this found last week on another BBC Blog "Have your say": "Shelley from the US", wrote: "Go MaCain! Pleeeeeeeease save us from Socialism. I've been to Europe and I don't want to live like those folks!". QED."
  
  I am not sure how this is meant to demonstrate American ignorance, or even xenophobia. I am an American who has lived in Europe much of my life and I vehemently oppose Obama because of his socialist leanings, having seen what it does to a people first hand.
  
  Far from fielding a uniting candidate, the more extreme elements of the Democratic party felt that anyone would be a shoo-in after GW Bush so went for someone from the left. I'm no fan of Hilary but if she was standing against McCain it would have been a toss up who to vote for. Obama vs McCain? No question I vote for McCain.
  
  On the hamburger issue, Europeans I have made them for always love them but are amazed when I don't add egg or breadcrumbs (??!!). Just lean ground beef, salt, pepper and maybe topped with cheese (something tangy works best).

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• 34. At 09:04am on 13 Oct 2008, PickmansModel wrote:

  Iraq is, rightly, figuring prominently in this discussion as it should in any consideration of the image of the US (and UK).
  
  'Liberating' a country is not normally best achieved by killing some 600,000 of its inhabitants (figures from US study) - the vast majority of whom are innocent men, women and children.
  
  It's not exactly likely to win hearts and minds, is it? Or is America simply trying to liberate Iraq and its oil wealth from the Iraqi population?

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• 35. At 09:10am on 13 Oct 2008, newScrolllock wrote:

  a_bunny wrote:"Of course pre 1945 was just as bad and included the Philippines, Hawaii and Cuba 3 times."
  
  Hmm, lets compare the standard of living and freedom of the Phillipines and Cuba to the American state of Hawaii. Oh that's right, there is no comparison. You also forgot to include the Europeans that also interfered with Hawaii before it became a state. A state where around 95% of the population voted in favor to become an American state. That's a number the EU could only dream of as it tries to coerce and bully European nations to give up their sovereignty in its arrogant and pathetic attempt to create a federal state to control the European continent.

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• 36. At 09:15am on 13 Oct 2008, edamanbe wrote:

  So - the "Hamburger" is a symbol of America? Ho! ho! ho! Just for information, folks, it comes from Germany, and the word "Hamburger" itself literally means a resident of Hamburg. The native Hamburger, however, calls it a "Rundstück" - literally a "round piece". It originally consisted of a white bread roll with a slice of rye bread for its filling. The present-day filling of cooked mincemeat is simply an American adaptation of the German original, and is NOT an American invention!
  
  

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• 37. At 09:16am on 13 Oct 2008, SmallHadron wrote:

  One of the big problems with a lot of Americans, as can be seen from some of the more ignorant responses here, is that they are actually educated to have a world view that is fundamentally skewed.
  
  Take this comment: "That's ok at least America has done more for freedom and democracy than any other country that has probably ever existed in this world."
  
  No, it hasn't.
  
  America did not invent freedom and it did not invent democracy. The electoral college system means that even the election of their president is not fundamentally democratic.
  
  The fact that their major politicians are beholden to big business for the funds they require to get elected makes the US far from being a functional democracy.

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• 38. At 09:24am on 13 Oct 2008, newScrolllock wrote:

  CorySchulz wrote: "I'm American and have live here my whole life and I must say that I am very much disappointed at this culture and its inability to produce quality human beings who are intelligent, aware, and capable individuals. The education systems are underfunded, the media seems to tell people what they want and what type of person they should be, no one understands politics or has any valid political opinions, the music is crap, sports here are lame, the banking and financial system is very corrupt and immoral (especially credit card companies), the government doesn't listen to the people or understand what they want/need, no one appreciates good art, and the food is often times cheap and lacking in flavor and nutritional value."
  
  It sounds to me that you would fit in quite well with the so-called Brussels elite as a model European. Maybe it is time to emigrate, or to lose some of that cynicism?

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• 39. At 09:25am on 13 Oct 2008, Mark wrote:

  Oh I had to laugh at newScrolllock's mis-informed views. For one thing, Europe isn't a country, so there go all your theories in one fell swoop. "Europe" didn't start a war, Germany did. And it was America who sat lazily by watching as Germany killed the Poles, Jews, Roma, etc. As for this peace loving nation called America, I think the Vietnamese and Iraqis might disagree... and those living in Panama, Lebanon, Korea etc etc.
  
  I was bemused by the student's sadness that the Spanish exchange student had come to the US with preconceived ideas. Reminds me of how Americans view Russian. They don't see the people, they see the government officials.
  
  At least in Britain we realise that in the past we brought with us death, destruction, murder and mayhem. We not only realise it, but we celebrate it. We even give it a name - the Commonwealth.

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• 40. At 09:34am on 13 Oct 2008, U4466131 wrote:

  #15 NeoPoliticus
  
  "What's amazing about Europeans (and I know it's an insult to lump the British in with them) is that they think we care. Europe is irrelevant and moribund. Europeans grew fat and lazy under US protection during the Cold War."
  
  Here I was thinking 'this is a good blog, an exchange of views some provocative but really interesting comment', and then along comes the rubbish shown above.
  
  Whats amazing about Americans like Neopoliticus is that they believe this rubbish.
  
  As a Brit living in France I'm proud to be both a Brit and a European.
  
  One and one half million Brits went out on the streets to tell Mr B Liar that we didn't want to go to war in Iraq. We knew there were no WMD's we knew that Saddam and Al Quaeda hated each other. He much, to our shame, went to to war. Hundreds of thousands of innocent Iraqis died.
  
  You didn't protect us in the cold war we were the buffer zone between you and the communists that you were so frightened of. Britain was used as an aircraft carrier and would have been obliterated in the event of that war. We, the citizens of Europe also provided our own defence forces.
  
  In the same way you didn't join in WW11 to come to our aid, liberate France or any of the other reasons you give. You were attacked by the Japanese and the day after that the Germans declared war on you. You had no choice.
  
  Please note I'm not saying that many brave Americans did not assist in that war, they did and the participation of the US certainly shortened the war. It also probably stopped most of Western Europe being communist at the end of it.
  
  If 'to save money' the US wants to remove all of it's forces from Europe in the coming months or years it's fine by me. As long as it's all of them including the early warning systems and those silly missile bases you want to base in Poland and Czech Republic. They won't defend us and we don't need them.
  
  Now having got that out of the way can we get back to having an informative change of views.

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• 41. At 09:36am on 13 Oct 2008, BrusselsBore wrote:

  As European and vegetarian I do occasionally enjoy vegetarian 'burgers'.
  Obviously with coming elections there is increased interest in the USA but aren't we here just mythologising the subject. With all its achievements and faults USA in just another country (as Johnny Rotten famously sang).
  In every country you have those who think differently and disagree with their government. This discontent is dealt with state violence is some countries (ie China) or with estrangement from the politics-that-matters (ie UK, USA). One could argue that the latter is more effective as it, on one level, gives a sense of freedom, but on the other guarantees a broad legitimacy to politicians and poor policy that leads to war in the USA or wall of mirrors in the UK.
  This is all coupled with the false impression perpetuated by the media that every opinion (or thought) matters. This has led us to the world where Sarah Palin is taken seriously and voted for.

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• 42. At 09:42am on 13 Oct 2008, lacerniagigante wrote:

  Wasn't also pizza invented somewhere in the USA?

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• 43. At 09:42am on 13 Oct 2008, Hunter Stockton wrote:

  The Land of the Free, yet a suspension of Habeus Corpus.
  
  Invasions of Sovereign Countries in order to topple Governments in a badly disguised attempt to secure Oil reserves.
  
  It's a shame in some ways that a Government's own spin and propoganda can have such an effect on its own populace.
  
  I've met plenty of different Americans with a very strong view on the United States but the only views that I've heard which have been free of that most ridiculous of American bias that they seem to garner when talking about their country, have been from those who have lived outside of the United States for a considerable time of their lives - mostly in Europe.
  
  The Hamburger is such a potent sign of Americanism for precisely this reason - because so many Americans when outside of their own territory will ignore local custom and cuisine and simply head towards a McDonalds, something they know and understand, for their sustenance rather than learning and understanding about other cultures. It's not necessarily the World's perception of the US which is the issue, it's the other way around. How many other Countries on Earth have an Elected Head of State that had to issue him with a Passport as he'd never been outside of its borders???

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• 44. At 09:46am on 13 Oct 2008, Tuuktalus wrote:

  I surprised Americans are typified as junk food- eating violent idiots by many of the comments here. We had an (American) vegan comment, a vegetarian, and I myself am vegetarian. I also have a fairly large (organic) garden. I dont approve of the war and never did. I also did not vote for Bush.
  
  My point is, Americans are not all the same, we are varied in views as well as lifestyles, maybe even more so than the people of other nations. Bush has a 25% approval rating, congress 18% give or take. Obviously we dont like our government anymore than the rest of the world does. So please people, stop judging Americans as one monolithic group. We are very, very diverse and some of us actually deplore junk food)
  
  

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• 45. At 09:47am on 13 Oct 2008, rgreulich wrote:

  I think what a lot of foreigners don't seem to realize about America is just how big it is. What people see about this country in the media is a small percentage of East Coast and West Coast and all that falls in-between. We are a multi-ethnic nation with some of the greatest percentages of diversity in the world, and that equals some of the greatest diversity in views in opinions as well. What you'll get out of the mouths of teens in Manhattan isn't necessarily going to be the same as teens in Miami or San Francisco or small town Lubbock. I'm from Texas, and even here, being a white female, I'm in the minority (you have Latino, but also Asian, African, Middle Eastern, European, Pacific Islander, etc etc). It's a very diverse country, and if you give it time, you'll find many of us are incredibly open-minded as well. It's just the few retards who shout the loudest that seem to get the most attention . . . unfortunately.
  
  As for hamburgers . . .
  
  I'm 26, 5'7", weigh 126 pounds, haven't had a major illness since 8th grade, and I've been eating hamburgers my entire life and LOVE them. They can actually be very nutritious. In my family, we blend spices in with the meat (a little smoked salt, dried peppers (cayane and chile), Worcestershire sauce, and a top secret family marinade) and top it with mushrooms, tomatoes, and avocados, and load it all onto a bun. The real secret to good burger, however, is in the quality of meat: not too high or low in fats and preferably from organically fed and free-ranging cows--happy cows make happy meat. :P And the perfect bun: firm on the outside but soft and springy on the inside so the toppings don't fall off, first grilled with a bit of butter. And a REAL hamburger must ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS be GRILLED.
  
  This is Texas, so hamburgers and steak pretty much are a staple for my family, and we're all incredibly healthy individuals. You just gotta balance it out with enough fruits and vegetables . . . and bordering Mexico, we get fresh fruits and vegetables almost year round (if they aren't first available at the local farmer's market). Organic whole grains have become increasingly easily available even in regular supermarkets as well. :) This is a country growing, and a lot more people are becoming aware of the wonders of fresher food. But there's still a lot to shake from the 50's era of bleach and scrub all nutrition away (ie: white eggs, flour, and rice).
  
  So no, we aren't all McDonald's junkies who sells sub-par slabs of prefabricated meat (if you can even call it that) in an attempt to give another hit to the salt-addicted who can't seem to get enough of the stuff. And we're working on weaning those who ARE back to the real food that's not only American, but tasty and nutritious as well. :)

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• 46. At 09:49am on 13 Oct 2008, lacerniagigante wrote:

  I've lived 5 years in the USA, but I've been to Belgrade for one day. I must admit that the best burger I've ever eaten was (surprise surprise) in Belgrade. They call it Pleskavica, it's made from fresh meat, mixed with herbs and garlic (no cheesy substances needed on top to enhance taste). In the USA, a barbecue always started with a gasoline smell and frozen patties ensued... I don't hate "America", I just want to eat proper food. Fortunately, most of my North American friends are vegetarians.

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• 47. At 10:03am on 13 Oct 2008, K Morrison wrote:

  The stereotypical side of America is rarely shown if you join online forums and debates. I have been part of a McDonald's debate and there were at least half the comments were against fast-food for various reasons (others were against the way of farming etc but still liked to eat the burgers). I have been on online forums for several years and the majority were from US, and there were plenty of smart Americans. The idea is to keep an open mind ad not believe the media stereotypes- not everyone's the same as George Bush!

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• 48. At 10:05am on 13 Oct 2008, Peter Wells wrote:

  Dear Schwerpunkt,
  
  ... Obama's "socialist leanings" - you make it sound like he has some kind of depraved tentendicies!?.. I'm intrigued, could you give examples of what you have seen that "socialism has done to people first hand"?..... Socialism isn't communism; and socialism isn't fascism. I would have thought that as you have lived in Europe most of your life, you would have noticed that most of the continent (with the exception of Belarus) no longer has a planned economy overseen by a myriad of despot dictators. Capitalism has well and truly taken over (for better or worse - see recent developements), with social measures such as free health care, education, social protection for children, the elderly, the unemployed etc. being retained. If these forms of social responsibilities, shared by all, are seen as socialism - then you are correct, and we are also depraved. [BTW - Government bail-outs of private businesses (paid for by tax payers) is socialist too] ... (but that's a whole different blog entirely!)

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• 49. At 10:08am on 13 Oct 2008, Varangkol wrote:

  The people of America are no different from the natives of other countries. They consist of the "good, the bad, and the just plain ugly". Regretfully, the "bad - and the ugly" - of the Americans seem to have more persuasion and clout than the "good"! And the "good" seem to have little ability to resist the pressures of the "bad and the ugly". They, the good, might even be called gullible. The Carpet Baggers of the 19th century springs to mind. More recently, the election and re-election of Pres. Bush is a fine example. Perhaps this most recent collapse of the financial markets might just be an asset to the "good", whilst the "bad and ugly" are struggling to re-establish their holds on the market place. But - is there any "good" american strong enough to move in before they recover? And will that "good" american have enough clout to gather all the other "goodies" along with him - or will they all scamper back into their holes to await the outcome?

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• 50. At 10:09am on 13 Oct 2008, Peter_Sym wrote:

  #13 'I think it's sad that the US is known internationally for it's fast food chains and it's desire for war.'
  
  Yet oddly no-one thinks this about Germany or Japan. One of the things that REALLY annoys me about this sort of blog is that its fine to say that the US is the only country to have used A-bombs and therefore has no right to criticise Iran etc for wanting nukes, but it would be almost taboo to say Germany is the only country that has attempted to irradicate an entire race by industrial means so shouldn't criticise other nations that carry out genocide.
  
  Why? Neither Bush nor Merkel were even alive when these things happened yet Bush seems somehow responsible for WW2 yet Merkel isn't. This sort of anti-US double standard is so entrenched its almost normal and I think many people don't even notice it anymore.
  
  Incidentally your comments about McDonalds deliberately hurting animals are libelous. The BBC wouldn't have published them if you'd used them against a european multi-national.

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• 51. At 10:13am on 13 Oct 2008, Freddie wrote:

  To JackBP2001: you wrote an excellent post. Sadly, the problem of the "greedy CEOs, the corrupt politicians, and all the others that have manipulated the democratic system for their benefit." is not just an American problem, I think it is universal.
  
  Americans get stereotyped as much as any other nationality. I have given up explaining to my friends that in Germany we don't necessarily walk around in Lederhosen and eat sausages everyday.
  
  I would have never put the Hamburger as an American symbol.

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• 52. At 10:13am on 13 Oct 2008, Peter_Sym wrote:

  #37. The US doesn't claim to be a democracy. Its a republic. It uses a democratic system to elect the President and senate but thats where it ends. The college system is quite sensible given the history and population demographics of the USA. Remember that the USA isn't exactly a single nation- rather its like a super-federalised EU and each state has its own governor with immense personal powers, unique laws, huge budgets and in some cases a military larger than many European armies.
  
  The system isn't perfect but its a damn site fairer and more popular than the european parliament (or British first past the post system) could ever hope to be!

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• 53. At 10:21am on 13 Oct 2008, Wilburrobert wrote:

  Maybe people don't want America's Democracy, Iraqi's seem less than pleased to have all of these westerners setting up camp there.
  And, judging by the choice American's have been given this time round, it looks like nothing's going to change for another 4-8 years.
  I dont know where these stereotypes of "hamburger" have come from. I think of america and the words, Born again Christianity, Obesity, and Self Rightousness come to mind.
  Land of the Free? Rich in Possibilities...
  The Founding fathers went over to the New world, to escape Religion and Oppression.
  It seems they have come full circle and become the Religious Oppressors.

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• 54. At 10:26am on 13 Oct 2008, jamminben13 wrote:

  I'm sad the conclusion has been reached that Americans are not stupid, this was a very small survey and if we take all the evidence available, ( Sarah Palin just getting a Passport, George Bush, the two Miami Dolphin Fans in Earls Court a couple of Months ago who asked me if Poland was part of the UK), we can see that many Americans are, if not intellectually challenged, very insular and self absorbed.
  Any article that challenges this perception is heresy and should be avoided at all costs. The world must know the truth.

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• 55. At 10:31am on 13 Oct 2008, Kev wrote:

  No need to apologise JackBP2001, a well thought out and written comment.

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• 56. At 10:39am on 13 Oct 2008, rivaldo2k8 wrote:

  USA? Love the place and the food. I regulary visit California....for burgers there is only one place to visit...Carls JR! mmmm

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• 57. At 10:44am on 13 Oct 2008, kbwong wrote:

  Oh dear.
  
  I am an American who is currently living in the UK. I'm not the widest traveled person in the world, but neither am I the least.
  
  What I've mainly noticed in my travels is that people are more the same than they are different. We all have our bigotries. Due in large part to that whole Us vs. Them thing that human beings like so much, many people are bigoted about the Americans, or sometimes just America, while they have no problems with Americans. ("All Americans are ****, but the ones I know are all right.")
  
  There are certainly people I've spoken to who are bigots where America is concerned. One extreme example is the Englishwoman I talked to who said she would never set one foot in the US because they once kept an MP on a plane over some papers for FORTY FIVE MINUTES (she couldn't name the MP) -- yet her dream place of residence is China, that well-known bastion of human rights.
  
  A particularly insidious and ugly viewpoint I've observed is that the US *deserved* 9/11, etc. (This morally and ethically bankrupt viewpoint, taken to all logical ends, would also mean that the innocent people of Armagh deserved a bomb in the middle of their shopping district, as just one "for instance".) I've noticed that it's held by many of the left-leaning Brits that I've met. Oddly, I've found the right-leaning Brits of my acquaintance view this idea with nausea, which confused me, a left-leaning person myself, until I realized it was a bigotry on my part. :)
  
  It is to my considerable bemusement that many people simply cannot and will not see their own bigotries, but then I suppose that's why we are bigots. There are lots and lots of bigots everywhere, in every country, and sometimes they're us.
  
  The ironic thing about British people bigoted about Americans/America, of course, is that for ages it used to be about the British, for everyone else. Rule Britannia.
  
  By the way, I realize that the hamburger was simply a literary device, but I would like to point out that if you want a humburger, you don't go to McDonalds. You stay home and make one. What you get at McDonalds is a McDonaldsburger, which bears only a passing resemblance to a real hamburger.
  
  Also, the person from the UK who talks about American fat people as if the US has sole proprietorship of obesity has obviously never sat for very long looking at the people walking down the average UK high street. My English friends tell me it's always been like that. Chinese children have the fastest growing obesity rate in the world, and my Australian friends (I just came back from a visit) told me recently that Australia is either first or second for obesity rate.
  
  Obesity, I'm starting to think, is not about laziness or a national propensity. It's a question of economics.

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• 58. At 10:52am on 13 Oct 2008, Tryingtobeobjective wrote:

  NeoPoliticus using the latin spelling does not make you more intelligent. You'd better don't comment ( alongwith newSrolllock) but read! You are given a good chance to know opinions different from your politicians' media ones.
  I am glad to get to know that americans like JackBP2001 and Corel Shultz DO try to explain their country fellows that you are hardly on the right way of living.
  I am avoiding to post my personal opinions since I try to maintain the level of my nickname, but ... PEOPLE OPEN YOUR EYES!

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• 59. At 10:57am on 13 Oct 2008, NouManor wrote:

  Like rounders and netball, Americans have reinvented, not to mention improved the sandwich with their usual relish and success. And yes, homemade are so much better... lean beef steak with some finely chopped, fried onion and garlic and herb breadcrumbs, the mixture held together with beaten fresh eggs. And grilled, of course, rather than shallow-fried.
  
  Find this article a tad condescending to be honest. Kind of obvious that in a country with a diverse population of X million people, you are bound to find differences of opinion.
  
  Sorry Jon, but I don't see anything new here. Did you write some blinding copy about the FBI that your editor wouldn't print?

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• 60. At 10:57am on 13 Oct 2008, a_bunny wrote:

  newScrolllock:
  
  Please, continue to post I think you are proving some valid points.
  
  Cuba: Standard of living is very poor, probably because the U.S has illegally embargoed the country since 1960 and called for the embargo of any country or business that has any dealings with Cuba.
  
  38 Years !
  
  For the last 13 years the United Nations has called for an end to this illegal embargo the vote is every country in the world versus the US, Israel, The Marshall Islands and one or two other Island nations with usually 3 to 4 abstentions.
  
  So what part of democracy don't you understand.
  
  Philippines: Living standard very poor.
  
  Initially invaded by the U.S in 1898 followed by a 44 year American occupation.
  
  also
  
  U.S supported military dictatorship (remember Marcos ?) 1972 - 1986 directly supported by the U.S. The Filipinos were actually poorer when he was ousted then when he was first elected President (1965)
  
  And of course occupied by the Japanese as well, the Philippine people haven't had very much opportunity in the last century to improve their lot.
  
  Hawaii: Government overthrown by U.S. and U.S sugar interests in 1898.
  
  Statehood gained in 1959, 66 years after the country was invaded.
  
  So Iraqis only have to wait another 60 years, I'm sure they will be happy to know that!
  
  newScrolllock you might want to read some history so that instead of saying look at what they are today.
  
  You could maybe see how they got where they are today.
  
  But in your case I doubt it would make any difference
  
  

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• 61. At 10:57am on 13 Oct 2008, jedijimjimnj wrote:

  Not everyone in the US is a Republican or Democrat, or an Evangelical Christian, or a Jew, or a millionaire, or white, or dirt poor, or illiterate. There are 305,000,000 of us (give or take a few million), and each one of us is an individual. I see so many people here trying to pigeonhole us as one extreme or another, but isn't that the same as saying all Aussies are named Bruce; all Brits eat scones at every meal, or all Indians are Hindus? The narrowmindedness of Europeans (and those wanna-be-Expats) who love nothing more than bashing the US and the 300,000,000 of us who mostly just go about our business and try and let the others do the same, is just disheartening.
  
  I'm not going to claim that the US is a perfect place to live...I just can't think of a better place for me. Or my wife and daughter. Or our unborn twins. We have a pretty good life here in New Jersey (other Americans think of NJ the way Europeans think of the US, by the way). We live in a nice house, I have a pretty good job, my wife doesn't have to work, we eat three square meals a day, and take an active part in politics and our local communities. Who wouldn't want to live here? Unless you really like where you are, in which case, good on you.
  
  I live near two military facilities, one Army and the other Navy. We have protesters outside the gates of teh Army base every day, one group on the east side of the street protesting against the war, and one group on the west side of the street protesting against the protesters. I would gladly go to the grave defending teh rights of BOTH sides to say and think what they want. That is the wonder of the US, the fact that for most of us, even if we don't agree with what you say, we agree you have the right to say it. Everyone here has the right to be stupid, and that's the way we like it.
  
  Those of you who don't appreciate or like the US or Americans, you are free to stop shopping at Wal Mart, eating at McDonalds, driving Ford/GM/Chrysler producs, flying on Boeing planes, watching US produced films and TV shows, or frequenting Starbucks.
  
  Thanks and Regards,
  
  Jim from New Jersey (GO DEVILS!)

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• 62. At 11:00am on 13 Oct 2008, slyfox wrote:

  As usual we Brits like to think ourselves intellectually superior to our American cousins (even that phrase has a whiff of condescension).
  
  However, I'm willing to bet that 100 US teenagers would have more idea about who Gerald Ford was than 100 British teens asked about Harold Wilson.
  
  The problem is that the political agenda is taken up by the likes of Sarah Palin - who's views at time seem quaint and very 19th century. However, even though I think creationists are loonies a lot of the people behind this movement are very intelligent individuals just with a somewhat blinkered view.

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• 63. At 11:02am on 13 Oct 2008, U4466131 wrote:

  #45 rgreulich
  
  Thank you, thank you, thank you, and all of in Europe are not starving SOCIALISTS living on state hand outs. I totally agree about the diversity of the US and it's population and about Hamburgers.
  There is nothing wrong with a home made burger it's only when you add the chain influence with their sneaky tricks, high fat content, massive amounts of mayonnaise and the rest that things become bad.
  Can we please keep up the intelligent exchange of views and not the knee jerk we are the greatest stuff.

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• 64. At 11:07am on 13 Oct 2008, Peter_Sym wrote:

  42. lacerniagigante wrote:
  
  "Wasn't also pizza invented somewhere in the USA?"
  
  If anyone tells you that they're lying. Pizza was invented in Naples.

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• 65. At 11:14am on 13 Oct 2008, Makeze wrote:

  The last American people who visited me in Germany, were two texan girls. They pretty much confirmed the MTV image, bringing over 20 pairs of shoes on a 14 day trip.
  But I could not help myself beeing very impressed, when they were confonted (as Americans so often are) with Pres. Bush and his war on terror, eventually yelling out:" F-word you! George W. Bush is Texan! You know nothing about us! We love Bush! Yeeeehaw!"
  Right they are. We know so little and complain so much. Nothing against constructive criticism, but constantly moaning Europs, who have no idea about what their own countries are up to, should not be leaning out of the window too far!
  Or in their own words: God bless those Texan chicks!

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• 66. At 11:19am on 13 Oct 2008, U4466131 wrote:

  #52 Peter_Sym
  Thanks for the first part of the post it was most informative. Shame that you then went on to spoil it with the bit below.
  
  'The system isn't perfect but its a damn site fairer and more popular than the european parliament (or British first past the post system) could ever hope to be!'
  
  Are all Americans so lacking in self confidence? Why have you the need to constantly tell yourselves and the rest of the World that you are the greatest
  Democracy
  Economy
  Health Service
  Political System
  
  It's a lot better to let others work that out for themselves don't you think. If they like it they'll imitate it.
  

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• 67. At 11:24am on 13 Oct 2008, newScrolllock wrote:

  T1m0thy wrote:"He much, to our shame, went to to war. Hundreds of thousands of innocent Iraqis died."
  
  Interesting that you leave out the many more murdered by the Iraqi government.
  
  "You didn't protect us in the cold war we were the buffer zone between you and the communists that you were so frightened of."
  
  Don't be silly if it were not for America the Soviet Union could have steamrolled all over Europe. Maybe you were not frightened of the Soviet Union because you didn't have to live under such a system. Convenient, huh?
  
  "Britain was used as an aircraft carrier and would have been obliterated in the event of that war."
  
  Why didn't that happen if it could be so easily "obliterated?"
  
  "We, the citizens of Europe also provided our own defence forces."
  
  Citizens of Europe? Last time I checked there was no such thing as a country called Europe. Why not let the EU coerce and bully its way into making that a reality first before proclaiming it as somehow reality. They were also quite tiny in comparison to the Soviet Union.
  
  "In the same way you didn't join in WW11 to come to our aid, liberate France or any of the other reasons you give."
  
  And who was giving the UK and the Soviet Union the crucial aid it needed? America was giving "aid" long before boots hit the shore.
  
  "the participation of the US certainly shortened the war."
  
  It very likely made the difference between winning it and losing it.
  
  

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• 68. At 11:29am on 13 Oct 2008, endebe wrote:

  Well there we go, the good 'Ol US of A is OK after all!
  
  Pity many of us don't agree with that, the kids are as brainwashed as the politicians are war like.
  
  The US is driven by one thing and one thing only OIL.
  
  That why the invasion of IRAQ happened, oh and to make sure that as many American companies as possible won the contracts to rebuild the place after the military had finished using it for target practice.
  
  The US government has been involved in more direct and indirect attempts to overthrow regimes since the end of WW2 than any other, and why, OIL people, OIL.
  
  Uncle Sam doesn't give a monkies about tin-pot countries and banana republics so long as the OIL keeps rolling in.
  
  The whole attitude of the US is "Live for Today" never mind that you SHARE the planet with the rest of the world.

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• 69. At 11:32am on 13 Oct 2008, bairnstorm wrote:

  Quote from JackBP2001:
  
  "Traveling through Europe this summer as a 19 year old American confirmed a suspicion I had previously held. That Europeans stereotype Americans"
  
  Does that mean all Europenas stereotype American's? You just stereotyped me!

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• 70. At 11:35am on 13 Oct 2008, tinybubbadee wrote:

  There are a lot of factors that have gone into generating the stereotyped opinion that I have of American people - the american culture and society is pushed in our faces everyday as though it is a benchmark for people aspire to. If it's not films, TV, music, or books, then its politics and current affairs. Within all of these contexts, I find that it is the Americans themselves that project the stereotype. Taking your typical hollywood blockbuster, how many good guys save the day on account of anything more than brawn and luck? Many of these people / characters represent themselves as the "idiots" who just got lucky, mainly on account of being American and not much else.
  
  That being said, I have naturally formulated a stereotype but I know very well that it is a stereotype and I don't judge Americans that I meet by it. I've heard some horrible tales of what individuals have to face when they come to Europe, and in my opinion that is equally as ignorant behaviour.
  
  When Clinton was in power, I was admittedly quite young but public opinion of America was a lot higher then. I distinctly remember the shock and horror of everyone when Bush was elected the first and second time.
  
  My question to the Americans here is that when a blatantly obvious systematic error like that happens, (even if election by popular vote doesn't immediately appeal to us as a democratic approach) shouldn't alarm bells by ringing?

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• 71. At 11:40am on 13 Oct 2008, Peter_Sym wrote:

  #54 re your claim that americans are all stupid and saying anything to the contrary is heresy: how about we judge the intellect of the UK on Jade Goody, Heat Magazine and Eastenders. Its as valid as as your examples.

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• 72. At 11:50am on 13 Oct 2008, Simon Ward wrote:

  The reason I dislike the burger chains is that they are expensive and make poor burgers that are smaller yet cost more in the UK than they are in the USA. However, the solution is simple - don't go to the chains, and make your own instead!
  
  To make your own burgers, simply roll about 200g/8oz of mince into a ball with some salt and pepper. Squash it flat and fry it. Then lightly toast a bun. First put some mayonnaise on, then some lettuce, then a slice of beef steak tomato. Then put the burger on. Note: putting the lettuce at the bottom keeps it crisp and the tomato slice stops the heat of the burger wilting it. Then at the toppings: cheese, bacon, mushroom, barbecue sauce, cucumber pickle, raw or cooked onion, mustard etc. as you like. Put the top and eat!
  
  You should be able to make burgers for under a pound each that are bigger and better than the chain ones.
  
  P.S. If you are really adventurous (or a pig!) you can make even bigger burgers by making 300g of dough in a bread machine and baking it in an 8 inch cake tin, then use 1lb of mince in a big frying pan and you can make a burger 8 inches across. Here's one I made: www.tragopan.demon.co.uk/MonsterBurger.jpg
  However, this is the upper limit of a burger you can pick up and eat. Although is it actually deserving of the name "Big"/"Whopper" - unlike the chain burgers!

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• 73. At 11:56am on 13 Oct 2008, protozoa213 wrote:

  I think #52 makes a valid point regarding why "America" is such a nation of confusion. From idealism to culture to cuisine, as much as each State is governed by a Central Legislature, each person is governed by its State Legislature, which varies wildly up and down the country. This results in a myriad of cultural, religious and political bias being fed to the populus of each State pretty much independently of any other.
  
  So, honestly, is it any wonder that American "culture" is so insular? Is it any wonder that American "education" is so insularly driven?
  
  As pony a comment as it may be to make, why do we view the hamburger as being symbolic of America and Americanism? Because it's the one thing that unites the entire Nation.

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• 74. At 11:57am on 13 Oct 2008, newScrolllock wrote:

  Wilburrobert wrote:"I think of america and the words, Born again Christianity, Obesity, and Self Rightousness come to mind."
  
  Sorry to break it to you but obesity levels are rising throughout the West. If you want to see the ultimate expressions of "self righteousness" just talk to any of the Europhiles that post on this site. Christianity made the West what it is today. Western values and morals are based on Christianity.
  
  "Land of the Free? Rich in Possibilities...
  The Founding fathers went over to the New world, to escape Religion and Oppression.
  It seems they have come full circle and become the Religious Oppressors."
  
  Very funny because most of the founding fathers were much more religious than our politicians of today. They were also quite more open and vocal about. The kind of politicians that America hating leftist Europeans would call lunatics or evil.
  
  Also the majority of the founding fathers did not go "over to the New World" since most were American born.

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• 75. At 12:00pm on 13 Oct 2008, NottsDean wrote:

  What disturbs and frightens me, and most people I talk to, about modern America is the apparent attitude that 'The end justifies the means'. Unfortunately an approach that seems to be gaining ground within the UK as well.
  
  History is littered with the appalling legacies of Nations that felt so strongly about their own beliefs that International Law and Human Rights were either totally ignored, or at best made subservient to a vision of the greater good.
  
  I do believe that the vast majority of people in America as elsewhere want nothing more than to live in peaceful co-existence, but while we allow our leaders to wage war, imprison and torture people we suspect of crimes against us without due recourse to the process of law and lie to their own people in order to gain the mandate to do these things .. all in the name of some greater good, a great many of us will find it very difficult to rest easy.
  
  

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• 76. At 12:03pm on 13 Oct 2008, newScrolllock wrote:

  SmallHadron wrote:"One of the big problems with a lot of Americans, as can be seen from some of the more ignorant responses here, is that they are actually educated to have a world view that is fundamentally skewed.
  
  Take this comment: "That's ok at least America has done more for freedom and democracy than any other country that has probably ever existed in this world."
  
  No, it hasn't.
  
  America did not invent freedom and it did not invent democracy."
  
  Talk about "ignorant." What kind of logic causes you to state "America did not invent freedom and it did not invent democracy" based on what I said? How on earth did you arrive at such bizarre conclusions?
  
  I'll pass on the equally flawed analysis and understanding you have of America's election system.
  

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• 77. At 12:05pm on 13 Oct 2008, smashingredXI wrote:

  To olivia724:
  
  I think it's quite ''revelatory'' that you think that you think that Europe and South America are (sic) ''countries''.
  
  Part of the problem?

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• 78. At 12:08pm on 13 Oct 2008, smashingredXI wrote:

  olivia724, i'm actually the idiot. Accept my apologies.

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• 79. At 12:13pm on 13 Oct 2008, golass wrote:

  Lest we all forget, Americans were first Europeans. We are all the same, fundamentally.

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• 80. At 12:17pm on 13 Oct 2008, Peter_Sym wrote:

  "For the last 13 years the United Nations has called for an end to this illegal embargo (of Cuba) the vote is every country in the world versus the US, Israel, The Marshall Islands and one or two other Island nations with usually 3 to 4 abstentions.
  
  So what part of democracy don't you understand."
  
  ironic: cuba isn't a democracy. Neither are the vast majority of the members of the UN. It seems you only focus on the US's failings, not those of the rest of the world.
  
  Incidentally I've a lot of time for Castro- he's certainly a lot better than the Batista regime, but thats not saying much.

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• 81. At 12:20pm on 13 Oct 2008, newScrolllock wrote:

  madloverci wrote:"Oh I had to laugh at newScrolllock's mis-informed views. For one thing, Europe isn't a country, so there go all your theories in one fell swoop."
  
  When did I ever say it was a country. When I lump Europe as a whole it is directed at those that see Europe as somehow one entity or wish that to be the case. Along with that desire there is usually a strong sense of superiority directed towards America.
  
  "Europe" didn't start a war, Germany did. And it was America who sat lazily by watching as Germany killed the Poles, Jews, Roma, etc."
  
  See my response above. As for the Holocaust what would you have had America do? Bomb the concentration camps? There were many people a lot smarter than you and I that determined the best thing to save them was to end the war as quickly as possible.
  
  "As for this peace loving nation called America, I think the Vietnamese and Iraqis might disagree... and those living in Panama, Lebanon, Korea etc etc."
  
  Hmm, lets compare South Korea to North Korea. Gee, which one is free and prosperous? The Iraqis now have their first chance at living in a real democracy. Vietnam is a Communist country where people are not free. Lebanon is an epicenter of Middle east violence/not America's fault! Panama? Please.
  
  "At least in Britain we realise that in the past we brought with us death, destruction, murder and mayhem. We not only realise it, but we celebrate it. We even give it a name - the Commonwealth."
  
  That's because of all the nations I have visited I have never met one as self-loathing as the UK.
  
  

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• 82. At 12:27pm on 13 Oct 2008, U4466131 wrote:

  #61 Jim from New Jersey
  
  Those of you who don't appreciate or like the US or Americans, you are free to stop shopping at Wal Mart, eating at McDonalds, driving Ford/GM/Chrysler producs, flying on Boeing planes, watching US produced films and TV shows, or frequenting Starbucks.
  
  Thanks Jim I appreciate the size and diversity of the US and it's population. There is one little but, however, that only accounts for 6% of the world's population and the rest of us think we are pretty good as well. With regard to the above we do not see a lot of WalMart in Europe. I can't stand McDonalds. the reason Ford/GM/Chrysler have just been bailed out to the tune of US$25bn is because not even the Americans want to buy them. Airbus seem to be as good as Boeing. Starbucks coffee wouldn't even get used for dishwater where I live (France). Which leaves us with the films. and some of them are very very good, but they often send out a very bad image of the US. e.g. US made cars are dangerous they always burst into flames when they crash. The US is a violent and dangerous place everyone is always shooting each other.

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• 83. At 12:34pm on 13 Oct 2008, Supadan1977 wrote:

  I have not read all the responses to this article, just a few, but from the few I have read I find it hilarious that Americans are upset by the stereotypical image the rest of the world has of them. Every nation has sterotypical images that the rest of the world refers to. Thats why Brits on American TV shows always have an emperial accent, drink tea, and watch play cricket.

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• 84. At 12:36pm on 13 Oct 2008, Freddie wrote:

  No. 31 CorySchulz who said "The education systems are underfunded, the media seems to tell people what they want and what type of person they should be, no one understands politics or has any valid political opinions, the music is crap, sports here are lame, the banking and financial system is very corrupt and immoral (especially credit card companies), the government doesn't listen to the people or understand what they want/need, no one appreciates good art, and the food is often times cheap and lacking in flavor and nutritional value."
  
  I can understand where you are coming from. However, with your comment you do exactly what countless people do when they talk about Americans, you GENERALISE.
  
  Take this for example: "no one appreciates good art". Have you been to a museum lately? Have you been to an exhibition lately? If you have, was it empty? Were you the only person? (Maybe we should first discuss what you mean by "good art").
  
  Furthermore, I find it quite upsetting to read that you think my friends are far from "quality human beings who are intelligent, aware, and capable individuals". I can assure you they are. Why would I otherwise bother?

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• 85. At 12:37pm on 13 Oct 2008, 151179 wrote:

  lacerniagigante (#42) I seriously hope you're joking.
  
  Cambones (#23) I agree. Unfortunately for some of these extreme lefties it's not enough to live entirely on a diet of cardboard and lettuce - they have to evangelise about it too, and either condemn anyone who chooses otherwise or patronise them with the notion that they're 'victims' of easy fast food and pernicious advertising.
  
  The number of sanctimonious vegetarians on here speaks volumes, as does the fact that being 'obese' is still, by the Left at least, considered the worst thing in the world and perfect justification for the moral condemnation and ridicule directed at this group.
  
  Personally, I love American fast food, partly for the taste and convenience, but also because of the lack of the good side helping of guilt that is now being served up with any type of food in Britain. Is it organic? Is it fairtrade? Brown or white? Will it make you fat? Enough already. It's my business what I put in my mouth, however much the nanny-state socialists might try to convince us that food, and weight, are now serious political topics demanding uncompromising intervention.

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• 86. At 12:40pm on 13 Oct 2008, jpatie wrote:

  Nice to read the thoughts of young people, honestly stated. The trouble is that they will probably never travel outside the US to see what the rest of the world is like.
  
  I first went to the states in 1979 and was in awe of the place. I visited many times over the years until 2006. When I realised the security at airports was ridiculous, the food in restaurants was huge & awful. Supermarket fruit and veg had no flavour, and that the rest of the world had passed America by and that it had become a third world country but with money.

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• 87. At 12:42pm on 13 Oct 2008, Peter_Sym wrote:

  #66. I'm quite amused. I'm not an american, I'm a Brit. The confusion is easily explained... I must be one of the few europeans who doesn't have a blind hatred of all things american.
  
  Actually I quite like our first past the post system because it gives us strong government (at least compared to the coalitions you get in Europe) but its anything but fair or democratic. That said its far fairer than the EU parliament and I'd repeat my comment about its popularity- if Brits love Europe so much why is our government afraid to give us a referendum on Lisbon?
  
  You should click on my name and read some of my other posts especially my criticism of private health care. The NHS isn't perfect by a long way but its still better for most than the US system.

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• 88. At 12:44pm on 13 Oct 2008, U4466131 wrote:

  #67 newScrolllock
  
  Interesting, the nit picking use of words European citizen. Europe doesn't exist.
  Europe or the European Union has a population of around 496 million and an economy one and one half times that of the USA. Non existent!!
  
  'And who was giving the UK and the Soviet Union the crucial aid it needed? America was giving "aid" long before boots hit the shore.'
  
  Aid? I thought it was called 'lease lend' and we paid for it.
  Having fought off the Germans at first almost alone and then aided by the Russians we then had you 'coming to our aid'. Except you didn't, you joined in because you were attacked and then Germany declared war on the USA.
  
  I notice you don't address the point about removing your military and weapons systems. The reason being that if you did you would be a lot more vulnerable. We in Europe are and always have been a buffer zone for the US.
  
  It's the great American self deception, you always seem to have to need to explain your actions on the grounds of altruism and not self interest.
  
  

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• 89. At 12:46pm on 13 Oct 2008, Alex_t2000 wrote:

  I think the main obstacle preventing mutual understanding between Europeans and Americans is education. Most Europeans speak three languages because that is what they are taught in their schools. Most Americans only speak English and expect others to speak English when they travel to Europe. That in itself is taken for arrogance. To overcome this obstacle and pave way for mutual understanding, the public school system in USA must be improved. Although English is the international language of business, it is not necessarily the primary medium for mutual understanding and fostering of good relations. Knowing a foreign language is the source of learning others' culture and also opens one's eyes in understanding others' perspectives.

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• 90. At 12:46pm on 13 Oct 2008, newScrolllock wrote:

  a_bunny wrote:"Cuba: Standard of living is very poor, probably because the U.S has illegally embargoed the country since 1960 and called for the embargo of any country or business that has any dealings with Cuba."
  
  Gee, I didn't realize it was America's duty to trade with Cuba to sustain their superior Communist system. No one country that I know of has been stopped from trading with Cuba. Your tourists also visit there quite often.
  
  "the United Nations has called for an end to this illegal embargo the vote is every country in the world versus the US, Israel,"
  
  Good thing the UN doesn't always gets what it wants.
  
  "Philippines: Living standard very poor."
  
  I have friends from the Philippines that all agree when I say they would have been much better off as an American state or territory.
  
  "Hawaii: Government overthrown by U.S. and U.S sugar interests in 1898. Statehood gained in 1959, 66 years after the country was invaded."
  
  Don't forget the European participation. And of course don't forget around 95% of the Hawaiian population voted in favor of American statehood. :)
  
  "So Iraqis only have to wait another 60 years, I'm sure they will be happy to know that!"
  
  60 years??
  
  "newScrolllock you might want to read some history so that instead of saying look at what they are today.You could maybe see how they got where they are today."
  
  Where America has stayed the distance and with cooperation from the local population there has only been success.
  
  "But in your case I doubt it would make any difference."
  
  Yet you still feel it necessary to set me straight? :) Typical.
  

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• 91. At 12:51pm on 13 Oct 2008, Lesta Legend wrote:

  'there a symbol any more American than the hamburger? I don't think cowboys, the Statue of Liberty or even the Stars and Stripes come close'
  
  Your kidding right? Is this a serious blog? The stature of liberty and the stars and stripes are the most enduring symbols of the US by a country mile.

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• 92. At 12:52pm on 13 Oct 2008, RedwoodRon wrote:

  America has indeed had a bad press for some time. When there is a crisis somewhere in the world, be it humanitarian or political, Europeans tend in the main to sit on their hands and pontificate. Words are issued, but often there is a marked lack of decisive action. On the other hand, the USA tends to be there early. This can be an unquestionably good thing, in times of natural disaster for example, but in other instances has left them open to criticism. Consider the rise of the Islamic extremists and their hatred of the west, and their aim to convert the world by force to their ways. While it is people in Arabic countries that are suffering, Europe is content to turn a blind eye, saying we should not interfere in other "cultures". When they start to export their hatred and violence, Europeans start muttering that something really ought to be done, but simply argue amongst themselves as to what this should be. So nothing is done. This is how the Nazis rose to rule much of the continent.
  America, on the other hand, will blunder in and try to sort things out. Well intentioned, but perhaps a little clumsy, but far easier to criticise by those that would do nothing. Hence their bad press.
  Other reasons that America is subject to ridicule; well, just look at their TV companys' output. They seem to produce a far higher percentage of banal worthless rubbish than most countries, and heaven knows we can produce some trash of our own in this country. Their destruction of the English language - not that we in the UK are perfect (seen Eastenders lately, or the average radio DJ in the London/Thames area?). Anyone that has dealings with companies in the US will be appalled by their poor use of language, even at quite senior levels. Their healthcare for the less well-off is not a subject for celebration either, I understand.
  But there is much that is good about the place that is relatively unsung. They have achieved remarkable things of the decades, partly due to their size and economic capacity, and partly due to the (relatively) fee nature of their society. Where is the country to which of those (rich or poor) in the most anti-American countries would like to emigrate? America. Despite their food! This says it all really.
  

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• 93. At 1:00pm on 13 Oct 2008, Biscuiteater wrote:

  Firstly, on the food theme. My favourite place in the States is the South West, TX, NM and Ar. Apart from the fantatic long traffic free highways and scenery it has to be the Tex Mex food. Fresh warm tortillas and homemade salsa on your table, fantastic. It may be the image of America, but you do not have to eat it. I cannot remember the last time I had roast beef, or Fish & Chips.
  
  As to the view people have of Americans, well, it is one of the hardest things to understand people from another country. You have only got to see what happens when somebody like Spielbarg for instance tries to represent the British to see this.
  
  A funny story. While I was in Texas a couple of years ago, I was invited to an evening meal in somebodies Winibago (I think it is spelt), and they had the 4 Feathers on the DVD. A film about the British in the Sudan. I had to explain it was the British they were looking at, but my attempts to explain Corporal Jones of Dad's Army, who's character served in the Sudan led to looks of amazement and utter bafflement. People say we are similar, but that evening you would not have thought it.

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• 94. At 1:02pm on 13 Oct 2008, newScrolllock wrote:

  tinybubbadee wrote:"When Clinton was in power, I was admittedly quite young but public opinion of America was a lot higher then. I distinctly remember the shock and horror of everyone when Bush was elected the first and second time.
  
  My question to the Americans here is that when a blatantly obvious systematic error like that happens, (even if election by popular vote doesn't immediately appeal to us as a democratic approach) shouldn't alarm bells by ringing?"
  
  The arrogance in your post is quite stunning. It's a "blatantly obvious systematic error" for Americans to vote for and choose who they want to run their own country? Is this a joke? Since when did Americans need the approval of foreigners on who to elect president? Do Britons or Germans or the French need American approval on who they should elect to office? Get over yourself.

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• 95. At 1:02pm on 13 Oct 2008, tiptoplisamich wrote:

  Schwerpunkt wrote:
  On the hamburger issue, Europeans I have made them for always love them but are amazed when I don't add egg or breadcrumbs (??!!). Just lean ground beef, salt, pepper and maybe topped with cheese (something tangy works best).
  
  
  An observation about "egg or breadcrumbs": I was born and raised in central Illinois, so perhaps this is a regional thing (?). Growing up and especially when Dad's paychecks were lean, Mom would add egg and breadcrumbs (or oatmeal or some other type of filler) to the ground beef. It was called meatloaf and baked in an oven. Mom did this to "stretch" the meat and make the meal go farther for a family of 5. Never ever did we grill a hamburger with egg or crumbs added to it. Doing so was considered a poor-man's burger. If Dad grilled a burger, it was meat only with a little onion and seasoning added to it before making the patties (and my brothers and I celebrated because we hated meatloaf!). Adding egg or crumbs to the patties, especially at family barbecues, would have made a statement that he couldn't afford enough meat for the family. Dad wasn't a rich man, but he had his pride.
  Again, just an observation from my extended family's midwest outlook on burgers :-)

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• 96. At 1:04pm on 13 Oct 2008, newScrolllock wrote:

  Supadan1977 wrote:"I have not read all the responses to this article, just a few, but from the few I have read I find it hilarious that Americans are upset by the stereotypical image the rest of the world has of them."
  
  You take pleasure in seeing people "upset?"
  
  "Every nation has sterotypical images that the rest of the world refers to. Thats why Brits on American TV shows always have an emperial accent, drink tea, and watch play cricket."
  
  None of which are insulting, unlike most American stereotypes coming from that side of the Atlantic.

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• 97. At 1:05pm on 13 Oct 2008, PapasWorld wrote:

  An interesting discussion here, I must say.
  
  Admittedly, I had a very negative, sterotypical image of the average American until I actually visited the place.
  
  Maybe it was the place I visited (Boston) but I must say, I found the 'average' American to be incredibly warm, generous and full of humour with good grace. Nearly everyone I met was interested in the UK and other places and I was genuinely surprised by the level of community spirit - something we seem to be lacking over here.
  
  Food-wise, in the week I was there, I ate Italian, Mexican, Thai and I even had fish 'n' chips that *almost* rivalled ours over here! I also had a meal from one of the biggest salad bars I've ever seen. It was all scrummy.
  
  Didn't try a hamburger though ...
  

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• 98. At 1:07pm on 13 Oct 2008, Peter_Sym wrote:

  #82. ASDA (the UK's 3rd largest supermarket) is owned by Walmart so Europe has plenty. Ford also own jaguar etc and seem to sell pretty well here. My Vauxhall astra is a GM and about every 3rd car on the roads in the UK seems to be a Vauxhall. Mine has never broken down in 9 years and I'd happily buy another one. Airbus IS about as good as Boing but given the level of state subsidy it recieves it should be. I've had some very good coffee in France and I've had some filth. There's nothing wrong with Starbucks, its just too expensive and the majority of their menu choice isn't coffee in any recognisable form anyway. Equally your home country of France has more McD's per head than the UK so although you may not like them someone in France does.

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• 99. At 1:10pm on 13 Oct 2008, itzig66 wrote:

  #22 Bigbri91 Sadly it is comments and attitudes like your's that give Americans a bad name.
  Patriotism is not the same as nationalism...if it were Germany in the late 30's and early 40's should be your role model..along with Russia from 1917 to '89...This fact seems to be convieniently ignored by many flag waving Americans today.

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• 100. At 1:13pm on 13 Oct 2008, DavidJW242 wrote:

  There's no denying America IS the land of opportunity - you have the opportunity to eat as much as you like!

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• 101. At 1:14pm on 13 Oct 2008, Ian Watson wrote:

  Ye gods... do some of you Americans posting here really see yourselves as "liberators" and all-round good guys?
  
  What part of "liberation" please was the use of chemical weapons against civilians of Fallujah about then please? Or the myriad of "trophy" videos that have spawned showing American soldiers thoroughly enjoying themselves whilst they massacre the people of Iraq.
  
  I am haunted forever by the video I saw on Youtube, of a man fleeing with his toddling children, his hands in the air as he ran across a bypass, his kids screaming with fright.... then take in the rest of the picture, the US Marine turning his 50 caliblre onto them all and with a grin, a "woohoo" he blew him and the children to pieces and he with his cohorts were having a great time.
  
  The world has suffered decades of American lies, propoganda, death and destruction, to me the image of America isn't the hamburger, to me it is the user, the taker, the thief, the murderer, the liar, the backstabber, that is what I see around the world...
  
  The world has also suffered decades of American meddling, interference with the end results like the current global economical crisis, the constant threats of using nuclear weapons against Iran because Iran dared say "no"... because Israel sees Iran as a real threat to its own hegemony, the turning of a very blind eye to atrocities committed by Israel that are very similar to those committed by the US in Iraq, the Palestinians killed and robbed paid for by US tax dollars, killed by US bullets and guns.
  
  I wake up every day and thank the stars that I ain't an American because one day... all them chickens are coming home to roost.
  
  And America, consider this... those lovely little "liberators" who shoot up schools in Iraq and Afghanistan, who quite happily decimate unarmed men, women and children will one day be back in YOUR community... won't that be nice?

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• 102. At 1:22pm on 13 Oct 2008, newScrolllock wrote:

  golass wrote:"Lest we all forget, Americans were first Europeans. We are all the same, fundamentally."
  
  First off, not all American ancestry is of European origin. You have of course American Indians and plenty of ancestry that originates from other parts of the world like Asia and Africa. Also, most of the founding fathers were American born.
  
  We are not "fundamentally" the same. Europeans value the collective and government control and regulation much more than Americans do. Americans value individuality, self-enterprise, and freedom much more. I hope that never changes. It is what has made America, in its short history, the most successful country, in many areas, that the world has ever seen.

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• 103. At 1:27pm on 13 Oct 2008, tiptoplisamich wrote:

  #82
  I was in agreement with you line by line of your post until I read the last two sentences. Then I was back to shaking my head again at the generalizations.
  
  To dispel the myths:
  Currently living in and commuting with St Louis traffic I see car crashes on a daily basis, but I've never seen an American (or foreign made) car burst into flames. (I do agree that US car quality is not worth the purchase price). Before I leaped into loyal Toyota ownership, my American made car was once involved in a crash, yet fortunately did not burst into flames.
  
  Also, I exercise every morning by walking a good distance. I've never seen anyone being shot, never had anyone shoot at me, nor have I heard gun shots fired in a distance. In fact, having lived in 5 different US states, I can honestly say I have never known or met anyone who has been shot even though hundreds of my friends/acquaintances are gun owners, including 5 of my current neighbors. Including myself in your "everyone is always shooting each other" comment, I have to assume it's an untrue stereotype. Something to keep in mind is that Hollywood movies are not reality.
  

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• 104. At 1:29pm on 13 Oct 2008, bellezc wrote:

  The problem with all that is the notion that any country can be the saviour of the world. Does the USA or its citizens hold the absolute truth? The US wants to go to Iraq and save it because what? Out of the kindness of its heart? Please...The US should maybe focus on its own issues - ie Katrina and what happened in New Orleans- and look at saving itself first before meddling with other people's lives. Yes Saddam was a tyrrant. But let's not forget how he managed to get hold of such power - guns trade anyone? Not to mention the - proven historically and factually - involvement of past US governments in the rise to power of several dictatorships around the world - Greece anyone? How people feel about the US in governmental terms and in respect to its citizens are two different things however the problem is that part of the country did - democratically, apparently - vote for an uber-conservative, trigger happy president TWICE!
  
  As for my burgers, I eat local meat ;-)

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• 105. At 1:35pm on 13 Oct 2008, AntoCapra wrote:

  I not sure how to define a typical american, I think the 'opinion' of those are based on what 'stands' out in the crowd.
  
  Every time I have been Europe, once for 5 months, I was asked repeatedly in Spain, France, Italy and Germany
  
  'Are you Scottish?' I was never sure why, I suppose being very tall and handsome they assumed I wasn't English or Irish. And they were surprised by my answer of being an American.
  
  Point being that they are more than likely a greater percentage of American 'approved' and not assumed as Americans than they realize.
  
  Everyone Everywhere, I think, has a interesting point of view. I love hearing & learning for other people and I know that I am not alone in this.
  
  Hatred and Nastiness comes easy to most.
  
  
  

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• 106. At 1:40pm on 13 Oct 2008, bellezc wrote:

  After re-reading my comment and then this by newScrolllock :
  
  "The arrogance in your post is quite stunning. It's a "blatantly obvious systematic error" for Americans to vote for and choose who they want to run their own country? Is this a joke? Since when did Americans need the approval of foreigners on who to elect president? Do Britons or Germans or the French need American approval on who they should elect to office? Get over yourself."
  
  I realised that they are quite right, people voted and this is who they elected and people agree and disagree but just to re-iterate, what other countries do and their citizens is their issue and problem, however when it affects world order then it becomes others' problem as well and it's herein that the problem lies. US citizens, by all means, vote for whoever you want, I just want the US to stop trying to enter other people's lives!!!And that applies to the other weirdos /super- powers, you name it around the world.

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• 107. At 1:41pm on 13 Oct 2008, farqy wrote:

  The comments from the teenagers did nothing to make me think any differently of the USA.
  
  About the USA being so obviously a great place to be...
  "The immigrants are coming here because they want a better job, they want a better life - obviously, they believe they can get all that here," - hmm!!
  
  about Iraq/Afghanistan
  "They think we're a bunch of violent people," Cory added. "But we're over there to help them." - oh dear.
  
  However, I was impressed by Travis Carlton,16.
  "I'd like America to be what it's portrayed as: the land of the free. I want it to live up to the name." - can't argue with that.

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• 108. At 1:46pm on 13 Oct 2008, boabmcdafty wrote:

  When it comes to American politics and policies I find huge contradictions.
  
  American provides the largest aid packages of any country in the world to far reaching countries all over the world. However, America itself has a huge issue of homelessness and poverty. Contradiction no. 1.
  
  American politicians seems to feel the necessity to try and solve other countries problems by interving with war, killing tens or hundreds of thousands of incocent people along the way. Not forgeting killing American soldiers as well. Contradiction no. 2.
  
  You cannot fight everyones wars for them. This is why the UN and NATO exisits
  
  

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• 109. At 2:00pm on 13 Oct 2008, DagHammarskjold wrote:

  I think the fact US citizens call themselves Americans says more about 'America' than Hamburgers ever will. People pointing out that Europe not a country, well America! Ditto. I'm sure this really pees of every other country on the South and North American continents.
  
  Anyhoo! Burgers are great and every Usonian I have met has been a credit to their nation.
  
  My cousins were glad to lose their Texan drawls pretty damn quick when they moved to Blighty and all due to preconceptions from those inner city folks. Just goes to show 'Stereotyping is bad, m'kay" and everyone does it.

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• 110. At 2:16pm on 13 Oct 2008, itzig66 wrote:

  #102 Are you serious?
  
  "It is what has made America, in its short history, the most successful country, in many areas, that the world has ever seen."
  
  This is tosh of the highest ignorance and arrogance. You are discounting the Roman Empire, the Greeks, the Mongols, the Chinese Empires and the British Empire, all pretty successful enterprises in their own time, and that is really the problem with your viewpoint; you are making statements with no evidence to support them that also simply ignore history.
  Americas achievements in it's time are in many cases, to be admired, but just as all the above ended so will the current American era.

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• 111. At 2:21pm on 13 Oct 2008, Peter_Sym wrote:

  " What part of "liberation" please was the use of chemical weapons against civilians of Fallujah about then please? "
  
  Perhaps you can tell us what chemical weapons were used? Lead? Thats a toxic chemical found in virtually every bullet in the world. The use of lead bullets is not illegal. Neither incidentally are phosphorous, napalm or depleted uranium. In fact given that every atom in the universe is a chemical the only way the US can NOT use chemical weapons would be if they used X-rays (a wave of energy) as weapons!
  
  Your use of 'civilian' is interesting too. Certainly there were some innocent people killed in faluja but equally there were many 'civilians' that were using RPG's and AK's. The correct term for these is 'partisan' and the geneva convention is very negative about such people.
  
  You would be hard pressed to find any major European power that hasn't carried out far worse than Falluja in the past 60 or 70 years too.

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• 112. At 2:34pm on 13 Oct 2008, U4466131 wrote:

  91 Lesta Legend
  
  The 'stature' of Liberty was that an intentional misspelling? One of the most enduring symbols of the US given to you by that nation you so love to hate the French.
  With regard to the 'Stars and Stripes' why is it you feel the need to hang so many of them up all over the place. It's always puzzled me.
  
  

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• 113. At 2:37pm on 13 Oct 2008, protozoa213 wrote:

  To #105:
  
  When I was in RI, the number of times I was asked whether I was Scottish beggared belief. The fact that I have (by anyone's standards) quite a stereotypically "stuffy" english accent seemed to pass the (very polite, albeit) counter-woman in Walgreen's by.
  
  When in a salon having my nails done, after clearing up the Scottish or English debate with a group of women in there, I became embroiled in a conversation about the British Monarchy. Unfortunately, the only thing these women knew about our Monarchy, was Princess Di (this was last year).
  
  Although I cannot deny how polite these women were (including being offered a lift back to my hotel after they discovered I'd walked the entire half mile to the salon), it seemed sad to me that their knowledge of Britain was limited to the "celebrity" affair of a one-time Royal.
  
  I don't know what this says about the country as a whole, but for as much as America may well be "the land of opportunity" to those of us looking for a better future; for those Americans I know well, many of them - as proud of their heritage as they may be - cannot wait to get out.

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• 114. At 2:40pm on 13 Oct 2008, U4466131 wrote:

  #95 tiptoplisamich
  
  I always use egg in my burgers as a binder not to bulk them up. I have a friend in California who uses yoghurt for the same purpose. I also nearly always use chopped parsley, and oregano for the herbs and, of course, onion.
  
  I live in SW France and have recently been experimenting with using Piment d'Espelette in them. It's a mild (4 on the Scoville scale) chilli with a very delicate smoky flavour.
  
  Hey isn't this much better than arguing about politics

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• 115. At 2:41pm on 13 Oct 2008, tiptoplisamich wrote:

  #109:
  Please note that referring to ourselves as Americans is not a subliminal message that we somehow encompass all that is good and worthy in the Western Hemisphere to the exclusion of all others. We don't think that way.
  
  I've read this supposed point of contention on other blogs, and until the past few years never realized it was such a problem to non-US people that we referred to ourselves as Americans. A theory: Americans...er, US residents are notorious for shortening up the language. Perhaps instead of identifying ourselves as "I am from the United States of America" we have over time just shortened up our end of the conversation to say "I'm American." It also flows a little easier off the tongue that to say, "I'm a US of A-ian/ite".
  
  Honestly, there is no arrogance at work here.

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• 116. At 2:45pm on 13 Oct 2008, protozoa213 wrote:

  #105 writes:
  
  "I suppose being very tall and handsome they assumed I wasn't English or Irish"
  
  This made me laugh from 4 different pov's:
  
  1) The arrogance
  2) The stereotype
  3) The potential irony of the statement if intended seriously
  4) The potential irony of the statement if intended to be ironic

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• 117. At 2:51pm on 13 Oct 2008, NottsDean wrote:

  #111
  
  'You would be hard pressed to find any major European power that hasn't carried out far worse than Falluja in the past 60 or 70 years too'
  
  Very true, but are you seriously suggesting that that makes it ok? The world is supposed to have come a long way in that time to try and protect people from exactly those kind of atrocities. At least most European nations have the grace to feel a sense of shame for those acts, and an overwhelming desire to make sure that NO-ONE is subjected to them again.

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• 118. At 2:54pm on 13 Oct 2008, Peter_Sym wrote:

  #110. I'd agree with the original comment. Thats not to dismiss the achievements of any of the great empires you list but the sheer global impact of US culture on the entire world is enormous, especially when you realise that the US has only seriously looked outside its own borders for the past 60 years. It took the Romans a couple of hundred years to conquer western europe. It took McD's 30 years to conquer the world.
  
  Whats also interesting is that all the empires you list achieve dominance with the sword, gun or bow. Generally US global domination has been achieved by commercial means- The US army doesn't force people to buy coca-cola!

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• 119. At 2:57pm on 13 Oct 2008, U4466131 wrote:

  98 Peter_Sym
  
  Peter you seem to be a little out of date here. Your Vauxhall Astra might be produced by GM but it's an Opel. Vauxhall haven't produced a car for several years. GM have a big problem with the Opel range they are very fuel hungry. Ford Europe on the other hand have now got themselves to the very top of the fuel efficiency scale behind Fiat, Peugeot Citroen and Renault.
  Jaguar is now owned by Tata.
  I was aware WalMart owned Asda, but don't quite see how that lines up with us all not shopping at WalMart. Sure Asda are big in the UK but don't make a blip on the scope in Europe proper.
  The canard about Airbus and state subsidy was rejected by the WTO when Peter Mandelson quite rightly pointed out the levels of US state subsidy for Boeing. Also remember what happened when Airbus recently won a contract to build tankers for the US Airforce. The Americans promptly threw all their toys out of the pram, changed the rules and took away the contract.
  This debate will run and run, but to my mind the days of the US being the 'Leader of the Free World' are gone.
  I think I could fairly say that you could be seriously criticised for being anti European.

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• 120. At 3:04pm on 13 Oct 2008, dyrewolfe wrote:

  Interesting to see the various comments and responses to this blog.
  
  To the Americans who said they were ashamed of their country, I would say, don't be. You're only being let down by your political system and corporate greed on an unprecedented scale...things we in the UK are sadly only too familiar with.
  
  The difference is your Constitution allows you to do something about ineffectual / undesirable governments...
  
  Although I've only been to the States a couple of times on holiday, I've found the people generally friendly and helpful. Some of the food struck me as a little strange...things like those foot-long cinnamon pastries (churros?), but I had no problems getting fresh fruit and veggies when I wanted them.
  
  I can honestly say I've never seen much negative media coverage of the US (aside from the government - which I rate about as highly as ours), other than during Hurricane Katrina.
  
  Having said that, a lot of America's TV output doesn't really do it any favours (I'm thinking the likes of Oprah and Jerry Springer here) which just reinforce a lot of the negative stereotypes. Okay - pretty much all countries have people like that, but for the most part, we try and keep them out of sight. ;-)
  
  Militarily, I choose to believe the US acts in the interests of others (as well as its own national security), rather than purely for selfish reasons, as some would have it.
  
  I for one am glad that there is at least one democratic country in the world prepared to take action on its own terms, rather than waste months trying to come to an agreement by committee.
  
  My only real concerns with the US military are the occasional apparent lapses in discipline (e.g. Abu Ghraib) and the recurring problem of target identification (i.e. when they shoot at our troops). I'm sure they do lots of good work too, but for some reason we only seem to hear about it when they screw up. Likewise, I'm sure British forces mess up now and again, but if they do we never hear about it.

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• 121. At 3:09pm on 13 Oct 2008, U4466131 wrote:

  #103 tiptoplisamich
  
  That is exactly my point. I don't think that US built cars burst into flames the moment they are involved in a crash. Nor do I think that all Americans spend most of their time shooting each other. Hollywood, however, seems to think otherwise. My point was that Hollywood puts out a very misleading version of the US to the world.
  Hollywood also has a habit of distorting the truth to fit the US view of the world and it frequently tries to re write history.
  

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• 122. At 3:25pm on 13 Oct 2008, Peter_Sym wrote:

  #111. Sadly I served in Croatia for 4 months. The world has not progressed at all. What I saw barely a decade ago was as bad as Oradour, Lidice or anywhere else. Very few nations so much as lifted a finger to stop it and that was on our very doorstep
  
  The US attack on Falluja was an excessive use of miltary force, however it was soldiers fighting 'soldiers' and as in most wars a lot of civillians got caught in the middle.
  
  I am not condoning the conduct of a very few US troops, rather objecting to the fact that it seems O.K to judge a nation of 300 million people on the conduct of a few dozen. You wouldn't judge the entire German nation on the SS so why is it O.K to do this to the US?

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• 123. At 3:30pm on 13 Oct 2008, AntoCapra wrote:

  #116
  
  Admittingly, I was having a laugh.
  
  Sincerely, 5) all of the above.

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• 124. At 3:32pm on 13 Oct 2008, Peter_Sym wrote:

  #119. My Vauxhall was made in Elsemere port (where there are still 2 shifts a day building astras), it has the badge of a dragon clutching a V flag in its grill, 'vauxhall' written on the boot & GM stamped on the seatbelts and gearbox. Its not an Opel although I have seen identical cars with an Opel bagde on them. It does Nottingham to Bristol and back on half a tank of fuel. Not bad for a 9 year old car. Sure there are cars that have better fuel efficency, but these tend to be very good in city traffic or very good at long distance. Mine is pretty fair at both.
  
  I probably could be criticised for being anti-european although I'd prefer anti-EU as a more accurate phrase. I like much about Europe, mainly its various differences. I don't want Europe to churned into some homogenous psuedo-nation by various unelected, corrupt bodies. The US may not be 'leader of the free world' anymore (if it ever was), but the EU certainly isn't rushing to take its place.

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• 125. At 3:36pm on 13 Oct 2008, SmallHadron wrote:

  in post #119 T1m0thy wrote: "I think I could fairly say that you could be seriously criticised for being anti European."
  
  I found it quite amusing that the Americans who got most upset by the so called 'anti-American' comments were usually the ones who made the most rabidly anti-European ones. They were also the ones who seemed to be most influenced by absurd sterotypes of Europeans.
  
  
  

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• 126. At 3:40pm on 13 Oct 2008, tinybubbadee wrote:

  As a refresher to what was previously said:
  
  94. At 1:02pm on 13 Oct 2008, newScrolllock wrote:
  tinybubbadee wrote:"When Clinton was in power, I was admittedly quite young but public opinion of America was a lot higher then. I distinctly remember the shock and horror of everyone when Bush was elected the first and second time.
  
  My question to the Americans here is that when a blatantly obvious systematic error like that happens, (even if election by popular vote doesn't immediately appeal to us as a democratic approach) shouldn't alarm bells by ringing?"
  
  The arrogance in your post is quite stunning. It's a "blatantly obvious systematic error" for Americans to vote for and choose who they want to run their own country? Is this a joke? Since when did Americans need the approval of foreigners on who to elect president? Do Britons or Germans or the French need American approval on who they should elect to office? Get over yourself.
  
  --------------------------------------------------
  
  I would hate for you to misinterpret my opinion as being an arrogant one: The fact of the matter is Bush did not win by popular vote i.e. he is not a representative of the people's choice. If there's not something fundamentally wrong with that in this supposed poster country of democracy then I'm completely baffled. Further to that point, I'm sure I'm not the only one who thinks that - there are a few million Americans that would agree too.
  
  

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• 127. At 3:44pm on 13 Oct 2008, U4466131 wrote:

  #102 newScrolllock
  
  I think you should look at your own history a little more closely. I have just quickly scanned Wikipedia with regard to the Founding Fathers and of the 57 persons listed as having signed the Declaration of Independence only one has a name that isn't British in origin and that is Mr Ingersoll. Paul Revere was the son of a Frenchman I believe and of course most of your constitution was plagiarized from the works of an eminent French philosopher M. Montesqui and England's Thomas Paine.
  When the USA started out it was with Europeans at the helm, you had the benefit of a blank slate, and a huge expanse of land. To have failed would have been almost inconceivable.
  The Japanese are, I think, in real terms more impressive. There are 100 million of them nearly 1/3rd the population of the US. They live on two tiny islands, have virtually no raw materials, were bombed almost flat in WW11 (no criticism meant here, they asked for it) and now have the World's third largest economy after Europe and the US
  My point is and has been in many posts to many blogs, please stop telling us you are the greatest. We would like you a lot more if you would be 'just plain folks'
  

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• 128. At 3:45pm on 13 Oct 2008, Tryingtobeobjective wrote:

  newscrolllock You sid:
  We are not "fundamentally" the same. Europeans value the collective and government control and regulation much more than Americans do. Americans value individuality, self-enterprise, and freedom much more. I hope that never changes. It is what has made America, in its short history, the most successful country, in many areas, that the world has ever seen'
  
  Please follow my advice : read more history books (not kept at Congress Library :-)). You ARE fudamentally the same. The only prominent difference your goverments always covered their aggression as a way of ' liberation', 'spreading democracy' or ' protecting other nations from dictators elected by themselves', while Europeans always admitted that they were seeking profits.
  Please I just started thinking that Americans really try to change foreigners' attitude toward the USA, but you prove opposit in your every comment.
  And for God's sake - your nation is great but not the only in the history and actually the 'short-lived' civilisation.

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• 129. At 3:52pm on 13 Oct 2008, Gary_A_Hill wrote:

  Dag (#109), "American" is used for citizens of the US primarily because of the awkwardness of "United Statesian" or some such construction. Do you have a proposal?
  
  This reminds me of a silly incident when a magazine described Chief Dan George as a "native American" and some Canadian citizen wrote in to complain because the chief is Canadian.

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• 130. At 3:53pm on 13 Oct 2008, itzig66 wrote:

  #118 I see your point; don't agree with it though! Given the advances in communications technology between the time of previous empires and this American era i think a couple of hundred years is pretty good going. Bwere the top dog Also

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• 131. At 4:02pm on 13 Oct 2008, itzig66 wrote:

  #118 I see your point, don't agree with it though! Given the advances in communications technology between previous Empires and the current American era a couple of hundred years is pretty good going. Back when the Brits were top dog tea clippers were considered a fast means of long distance communication and commerce, today we have the internet to spread information and products, the fact that today things can and do spread faster should be expected, not treated as an achievement. Also the previous Empires were largely founded on commerce (certainly the Romans and British), not warfare, the fact that warfare did take place as an adjunct to that is no different to the situation in todays American era.

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• 132. At 4:02pm on 13 Oct 2008, Peter_Sym wrote:

  "My only real concerns with the US military are the occasional apparent lapses in discipline (e.g. Abu Ghraib) and the recurring problem of target identification (i.e. when they shoot at our troops). I'm sure they do lots of good work too, but for some reason we only seem to hear about it when they screw up. Likewise, I'm sure British forces mess up now and again, but if they do we never hear about it."
  
  A very fair point. Our troops DO mess up and much more often than is ever reported. For instance a few months back an RAF Apache in Helmand straffed British troops on the ground seriously injuring 9. However this was briefly reported far down the list of news stories on the BBC. Compare this to the front page headlines whenever a US aircraft injures British troops. Generally the US 'friendly fire' incidents have been unavoidable. One incident I recall was an F15 dropping a bomb with a 500 M blast radius on Taliban forces 300 m from Brits at the request of the Brits. The bomb hit dead on target but funnily enough some Brits were injured by the same blast. What did they expect? That wasn't a US mistake much as our media made it out to be.
  
  Equally trying to tell which troops and vehicles are which from the air is a little harder than the Sun would have us believe. A 1000 metres up and moving at 500mph all tanks look like little brown boxes and all men stick figures. The MOD hasn't invested in the electronic ID kit that would prevent many of the accidents because its cheaper to blame the yanks. Thats also much cheaper than spending what the RAF needs to provide our own guys with fire support rather than depending on US pilots all the time.
  
  

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• 133. At 4:31pm on 13 Oct 2008, Gary_A_Hill wrote:

  I subscribe to the notion that it was Oscar Weber Bolby of Oklahoma who invented the true American hamburger on a bun. Sandwiches of ground beef and ordinary bread may have been made earlier, but these are not true hamburgers, merely antecedents, and their origins may be European.
  
  Anyway, the more important controversy today is who makes the best hamburger.
  
  There are a lot of variations. When I drive across South Dakota, I usually get a bison burger at Al's Oasis.

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• 134. At 4:32pm on 13 Oct 2008, Gary_A_Hill wrote:

  That should have been "Bilby" not "Bolby."

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• 135. At 4:42pm on 13 Oct 2008, Gary_A_Hill wrote:

  I used to add egg to ground beef for hamburgers as a binder, but I now use another system. I use the leanest beef, ground sirloin preferred, and add a little olive oil to get the right consistency. No egg and no bread crumbs, just seasoning.

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• 136. At 4:43pm on 13 Oct 2008, U4466131 wrote:

  132 Peter_Sym
  
  I think you have one rule for the US and one for the rest.
  
  While I agree entirely that 'friendly fire' incidents all too frequently happen I'm not so convinced about the US Military's response to it. They have a track record of non co-operation with anyone trying to investigate such incidents. Witness last year's complaints by a British coroner when the US authorities refused point blank to allow their pilots to testify. I had an acquaintance, a young tank regiment major, who was very seriously injured during Desert Storm when two A10's shot up the British amoured column that he was commanding. In that incident the US authorities refused to let the pilots testify.
  A further case in point was when a young US airforce pilot flew down the wrong valley in the Italian Alps cutting the cable of a cable car and killing 16 people. In that incident the US military flew the young man out of Italy in less than 24 hours and refused to co-operate with the inquiry.
  Their behaviour in Afghanistan/Pakistan where there have been many civilian casualties apparently resulting from US drones in action has also been very disturbing.

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• 137. At 4:49pm on 13 Oct 2008, Gary_A_Hill wrote:

  It's unfortunate that McDonald's has become the symbol of American hamburegers world-wide. They are the masters of the marketing of hamburgers, not the hamburger itself, in my opinion. I haven't been to a McD in many years. Even for a fast-food burger, when I prefer In-'n'-Out.

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• 138. At 4:55pm on 13 Oct 2008, tinybubbadee wrote:

  To 92..:
  
  I actually quite like your blog, it's well reasoned and I agree for the most part. Yes it is admirable in some aspects that US is always first on the scene in international affairs but maybe that is the problem: meddling in stuff that they have poor intelligence on (WMDs are a huge example of this). They (and when I say they I mean American leaders) leave themselves open to criticism because their motives always seem questionable. It then begs the question on why they then aren't first movers in other really important issues like the environment, and of course I have to bring up the apparent rescue from the Nazis how many years too late? They intervene where they can profit - be it oil, be it some tactical positioning against Russia - and call it spreading democracy? They seem to be very selective in making that call.
  
  I will also add that if it seems I have issue with anything American, it's more with the people at the top than anything. Politicians are power_grabbing and out for themselves everywhere in this world; but America being able to pull the most weight internationally, is easiest to target. The citizens are the ones that have to put up with national debt, poor healthcare system, and strong stereotypical attitudes against them everywhere they go. The politicians? We roll out the red carpet for them.
  

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• 139. At 4:56pm on 13 Oct 2008, U4466131 wrote:

  133 Gary_A_Hill
  Very subjective here but I think it is my friend Lisa from Pasadena and, as I said earlier on this blog, she uses Yoghurt as a binder.
  Must try a Bison burger next time I'm visiting, Bit of a long drive Pasadena to South Dakota just for a Burger not a very good carbon footprint, but in the interests of science why not.

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• 140. At 4:59pm on 13 Oct 2008, U4466131 wrote:

  #135 Gary_A_Hill
  Gary I'll try the olive oil next time I'm making burgers. Which will probably be tomorrow.
  

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• 141. At 5:05pm on 13 Oct 2008, U4466131 wrote:

  It is all too often the case that biggest is often not best. It seems that quiet frequently either the 'outstanding' virtues of the product in question get lost when it becomes the biggest or it got to be the biggest for some other reason.
  The VHS Betamax scenario where although Betamax was by far the better system Masushita were prepared to licence VHS to others and Sony wasn't, result VHS triumphed.
  Windows is another one. If IBM hadn't made the mistake they did when they launched the PC I don't think Bill Gates would be where he is today.

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• 142. At 5:11pm on 13 Oct 2008, tinybubbadee wrote:

  McDonald's greatest achievement is their marketing and by no means their food. When you're a kid, McDonald's is the cool thing to be eating - you get to show off the toy amongst other things; everyone whos anyone has their birthday party there at least once... etc.
  
  The relationship with the Golden Arches is then much harder to ditch when you get older - I realised a while ago that on the whole McD's (in the UK) does not taste great, nor does it leave me feeling very good in myself. Nevertheless whenever I need something quick, McD's is always there, it's generally the cheapest, and it tends to be the first thing I think of despite all my efforts.
  
  They've taken advantage of the fact that while everything is so much quicker today we place less and less time importance on things that should be prioritised like food and exercise. People that care enough about their diet, their health, or just plain good food wouldn't be seen there - unfortunately there are times that I conviently forget all those very important things

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• 143. At 6:03pm on 13 Oct 2008, throughthetrees wrote:

  I love hamburgers, with cheddar and grilled onions...mmm. Oh and throw some bacon on that bad boy, even better!
  
  I also love the venison I had last night, and the freshly caught salmon I will have this evening with a lovely honey and huckleberry glaze...Pacific Northwest food.
  
  The fact that teenagers are getting together and thinking about our country and the world...well, very cool.
  
  I admire France, it's healthcare system, it's philosophers, and it's history. Thank you for the Statue of Liberty. To say that people in the US hate France, well that’s just not true. You gave us a start and ideals to work from. Thank you GB for being the powerhouse you are in every way. Such a small island, and yet look at how you had the whole world in your hands, simply amazing. Germany, Spain, Italy, etc, I admire all your countries for many different reasons.
  
  To the poster who mentioned Thomas Paine, thank you.
  
  I understand Europeans feel Americans are stupid because we haven't learned the hard lessons of war over centuries on our own land. Perhaps people from Europe were raised with different ideals based on their history, but this is true for the US as well. We are still growing and learning, and yet to dismiss us for ignorant, etc., truly is a shame. It's been an interesting experiment. We have been lost for some years now, but hopefully we can find the way, and I think we will.
  
  We must always separate the people from the government. We need to listen to our founding fathers’ advice and avoid foreign entanglements. The world is changing and I believe the US will slowly withdraw off this stage militarily, Thank God. I dream of an isolationist US, if that’s even possible anymore.
  
  Peace to you, and see you around the bend.

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• 144. At 6:24pm on 13 Oct 2008, KathyinTN wrote:

  #136 - speaking as an American, yes, the American military was very, very wrong in its lenient treatment of the pilot who severed the cable car cord in Italy. There should have been many prosecutions and firings over that incident.
  
  Reading these posts, I see the same thing over and over: Europeans saying that America is the worst country ever, all Americans are stupid and fat, etc. The criticism of America has become so ridiculous that it drowns out the legitimate criticism. Now, since everyone is stereotyping, I shall do the same: why do Europeans so love to hate?

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• 145. At 7:03pm on 13 Oct 2008, timohio wrote:

  57. kbwong wrote:
  
  "but I would like to point out that if you want a humburger, you don't go to McDonalds. You stay home and make one."
  
  ...or go to a good bar. Bar-burgers are far better than any fast food burgers. They use better meat and it's likely to be fresh meat, not frozen pre-formed patties. Fast food burgers are really not very good.
  
  Or for a real treat, try buffalo (bison) burgers. They are grass-fed and don't have the fat that feed-lot cattle have. Bison meat has about the same cholesterol level as chicken. And it takes better than beef. I have never understood why the Europeans who settled in America insisted in trying to exterminate the buffalo and substitute cattle. The buffalo were doing just fine on the Great Plains, while plowing the prairie to plant corn to feed cattle was an environmental disaster.
  
  For the vegetarians, skip the veggie burgers and have falafel instead. It tastes much better.
  
  And I just don't want to take part in the usual cross-Atlantic bashing. Neither set of bashers seems to know much about the others' countries. Find me a perfect country and I'll move there.

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• 146. At 7:31pm on 13 Oct 2008, Gary_A_Hill wrote:

  KathyinTN (#144), I don't think there is any basis for thinking that "Europeans so love to hate." That statement goes way beyond stereotyping. A stereotype is an oversimplified conception of a group which is, nevertheless, based on characteristics observed in the group. An opinion based on the nonrandom sample of a handfull of people who choose to publish their views on a particular blog is a conception based on nothing at all. In this case, I believe it is not only not well founded, but simply wrong.

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• 147. At 7:38pm on 13 Oct 2008, foxtrottango1 wrote:

  To: # 109
  
  The truth is, the rest of the Americas do not refer to US citizens as "Americans."
  
  They are, in fact, addressed as "Estados Unidenses" which means simply as United States Citizens" Even the US border patrol check points do not ask their citizens if they are "Americans." They simply ask as if they are "United States Citizens."
  
  It's disturbing really, if United States Citizens are ashamed to address themselves as Citizens of the United States of America when they go abroad. "American" seem like a cop-out, a safe outlet for USA citizens abroad. It's confusing really. One doesn't hear a Canadian or a Mexican, much less any Central or South American citizens say he is "American", yet they are most likely native to the Americas. Or perhaps, maybe, United States government and citizens do not have the proper word to identify themselves throughout the rest of the world. When they say they are "Americans", it really irks the rest of the Americas simply because they tend to leave a bad taste throughout the world.
  
  The problem might be that Western Hemisphere History of the Americas, the other languages that are dominate (like Spanish and Portuguese), including the geography of the Americas, much less the cultures that predominate in those areas, are in fact, not required subject in the USA educational system. That is what make the USA's students one of the most ignorant and arrogant nation in the entire world.
  
  It kind of hard to understand the mentality that inhibits the Estados Unidenses. One has to take their comments at face value.
  
  

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• 148. At 8:09pm on 13 Oct 2008, CorySchulz wrote:

  In response to responses to my previous post I would like to say that there is nothing cynical in working towards quality and in analyzing the current problems that prevent us from getting there. Also, there is nothing wrong with generalizing; it is your motives that define the intentions of such tools and render their design either beneficial or harmful. We are talking about large groups of people and it is not possible to do that and still deal with each individual on a case-by-case basis. A person and a culture of people are very different things and all discussions regarding each of these must be understood relative to their proper category.
  
  I plan on eventually spending a period of my life in Europe and can speak a little German and a little French. It will be an interesting adventure for me, but I do not think I would permanently move there. I see enough things that need to be improved right where I am, and I've found enough people who feel the same, and collectively we are change. Overall, America has only been around for about 200 years and we've grown very fast and just have a little catching up and refining to do. Nothing that can't be done.
  -Cory

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• 149. At 8:46pm on 13 Oct 2008, SmallHadron wrote:

  In #144 KatherinTN said:
  
  "Reading these posts, I see the same thing over and over: Europeans saying that America is the worst country ever, all Americans are stupid and fat, etc. The criticism of America has become so ridiculous that it drowns out the legitimate criticism. Now, since everyone is stereotyping, I shall do the same: why do Europeans so love to hate?"
  
  This is an example of what happens whenever anyone criticises the US.
  
  They are immediately contradicted, and those speaking up for the US are usually in the majority.
  
  Just go through this blog and see if the majority of posts are anti-US.
  
  They are not. As usual, legitimate concerns are shouted down by Americans and those who support them and yet we are still told that criticism of the US is 'so ridiculous'.
  
  Certainly there are those who go over the top in their criticisms but, as with any other country, there are legitimate criticisms to be made.

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• 150. At 9:02pm on 13 Oct 2008, timohio wrote:

  re. 147. foxtrottango1:
  
  US citizens refer to themselves as Americans because the phrase "United States citizen" is such a mouthful. Americans tend to shorten everything down to as few syllables as possible, or use initials if it can't be shortened sufficiently. It has nothing to do with being ashamed of their citizenship. Americans refer to each others as Americans when in the United States. We refer to citizens of the Peoples Republic of China as Chinese, although we are aware that there are ethnic Chinese (including US citizens) who are not citizens of the Peoples Republic. We are aware that there are numerous other countries in the western hemisphere and understand that it is not strictly accurate to refer to ourselves as Americans.
  
  The Border Patrol specifically uses the phrase "United States citizen" because of its legal implications.
  
  And I remember studying the geography and history of the rest of the Americas in primary school and (I believe) in secondary school (it was a long time ago in either case). Whether students remember anything of the history of the rest of the Americas by the time they reach adulthood is, of course, up to the intelligence of the individual.
  
  For the US citizens reading this, I should say that many years ago I spent a short time living in Italy and have traveled rather widely in Europe. I met many wonderful and interesting people, enjoyed the countries I visited, loved the experience, and learned a great deal. I would like to travel more. One of the best things an American can do if you love your country is to get out and visit other countries. You will appreciate your country more, will better understand others' points of view, and will be better informed to fix your country's problems. But wait for the exchange rate to improve. Somehow my travel always coincided with a drop in the value of the dollar.

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• 151. At 9:10pm on 13 Oct 2008, DagHammarskjold wrote:

  Gary_A_Hill wrote:
  
  "Dag (#109), "American" is used for citizens of the US primarily because of the awkwardness of "United Statesian" or some such construction. Do you have a proposal?"
  
  I did call them Usonians which stems from a Frank Lloyd Wright term, how about US'er? I'm joking of course. I don't understand why most don't say what state they come from, thanks to Bill Clinton we even know Arkansas exists!
  

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• 152. At 9:33pm on 13 Oct 2008, Gary_A_Hill wrote:

  Dag (#151), I like "Usonian," being a Frank Lloyd Wright buff, myself. I don't know why I didn't think of that!
  
  Within the US we often do use our state to identify ourselves. Although I live in California, I am still an Oregonian.

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• 153. At 9:49pm on 13 Oct 2008, U13634948 wrote:

  Why do we always hear that democracy is right, everything else is wrong? Is this the US propaganda machine at work... or for US readers 'Public Relations' letting us know those damn reds are evil child eaters!
  
  I've been to plenty of countries that aren't democracy based and loved them all... sure every country has it's problems, but that will never change... democracy isn't a magic wand.
  
  I don't remember the origins of America being so great in reality... just great brand management over time that is USA™.
  
  Democracy is a farce, just another brand name to influence and hide the true greed of political gain. Even in the UK, it's not much better... sure the voting system is democratic, but once the appointed person (PM) is running, the general public have no influence on the outcome of major decisions... such as supporting the war on Iraq. A flimsily based lie was used to invade, the famous '45 minute WMD'S', which to this day no-one in UK government has been held accountable! Usually a leader is accountable, but that no longer seems to be the case.
  
  I'm not buying into this system of bullshit, image and lies.... which unfortunately seems to be the norm with politics today (maybe it's always been this way!) I see this greatly exaggerated in the USA, name calling and image tarnishing seem to count more for votes than policies!
  
  By the way, I do love a good, well-made burger.... McDonalds is crap, I get a McBrick in the stomach every time I eat there junk!

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• 154. At 10:34pm on 13 Oct 2008, DagHammarskjold wrote:

  Gary_A_Hill, Lucky I didn't say anything derogatory about Oregon.
  
  Just to say, the UK has a similar problem with calling the Archipelago just of mainland Europe 'The British Isles' as the Irish (understandably) find in rings of ownership by Britain, actually while I'm thinking of it, Greece were very upset about the F.Y.R. of Macedonia being called the Republic of Macedonia.

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• 155. At 11:14pm on 13 Oct 2008, timohio wrote:

  re. 152. Gary_A_Hill:
  
  Before the Civil War many Americans thought of their state as their country. It wasn't until after the war that "these United States" became "this United States."

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• 156. At 03:07am on 14 Oct 2008, newScrolllock wrote:

  DagHammarskjold wrote:"I think the fact US citizens call themselves Americans says more about 'America' than Hamburgers ever will. People pointing out that Europe not a country, well America! Ditto. I'm sure this really pees of every other country on the South and North American continents."
  
  I've noticed this recent trend by the anti-American brigade to now try and strip us of our nationality. Before many of the countries in this part of the world ever even existed the people from the American colonies called themselves American. America IS a country whether you like it or not! You you know what people from Canada call themselves? CANADIANS! You know what people from Mexico call themselves? MEXICANS! And they have no problem with that! The only one that is peed off is you!
  
  

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• 157. At 03:18am on 14 Oct 2008, newScrolllock wrote:

  itzig66 wrote:"This is tosh of the highest ignorance and arrogance. You are discounting the Roman Empire, the Greeks, the Mongols, the Chinese Empires and the British Empire, all pretty successful."
  
  This is what I wrote ""It is what has made America, in its short history, the most successful country, in many areas, that the world has ever seen."
  
  Can you see the part that says in its short history?" Did you even bother to read what I wrote before automatically trying to come up with a response?
  
  "Americas achievements in it's time are in many cases, to be admired, but just as all the above ended so will the current American era."
  
  I'm sure you wish to see the "American era" end but who was talking about eras not ending? Says a lot about your views of America.

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• 158. At 03:25am on 14 Oct 2008, newScrolllock wrote:

  foxtrottango1 wrote:"The truth is, the rest of the Americas do not refer to US citizens as "Americans."They are, in fact, addressed as "Estados Unidenses" which means simply as United States Citizens."
  
  That is so far the most ridiculous thing I have read so far in this discussion. As a well traveled Spanish speaking American I can tell you that this is complete nonsense. Americans are referred to properly as Americans or Americanos.

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• 159. At 06:46am on 14 Oct 2008, Noliving wrote:

  101(Ian Watson):
  
  Love to see the video your talking about on youtube.
  
  As for whitephosphorus it's not considered a chemical weapon. Also fallujah was basically emptied during the attack. Now as for your claim that civilians were hit, that is true but considering the civilians were not the primary target and considering the number of civilians vs. the insurgents hit by WP.
  
  Question, why is there no condemnation of rifles considering they cause the most deaths in wars? Why is there no controversy over bullets considering they cause the most deaths in wars.

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• 160. At 07:33am on 14 Oct 2008, T from New Zealand wrote:

  "It makes it seem like we all just want to have fun"
  
  Umm.. not to me it doesn't. To me the hamburger is a symbol of time-poverty.
  
  The world has a love/hate relationship with the US. There are many great things about that country. However, their refusal to participate in the world is disappointing to many. From sport, to units of measurement, to the international criminal court, they refuse to participate.
  
  Their obsession with leading the world and stubbornly refusing to admit that in some areas other countries do it better, is what is most frustrating and annoying.
  
  But perhaps that's just my opinion.

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• 161. At 08:03am on 14 Oct 2008, ladycm wrote:

  Americans are not all "shooting" each other. That's an insane comment. Wasn't there a huge riot in France between Muslims and the French police/goverment a few years ago over discrimination? That's faint in my memory, but I know it happened. The fact of the matter is that there are stupid people everywhere. We are all ignorant in some fashion about some subject somewhere in the world at any given time. America isn't perfect, no country is. I recently read a survey in which people in Britain were asked about Margaret Thatcher and 1/2 of them thought she was "fictional". No, she is not just a fictional character from the song "Fletcher Memorial". Although, I do agree it's bad statistics since I don't remember the sample size. I read it on Yahoo.com about 4 months ago. American's were stupid for voting for Bush, some are ignorant about history, but it's not just American's that are ignorant. Please understand; many of us here wish more people would get out and vote and care about what is happening in their world and their country, but sadly many don't. To lump in every person in a country that's as diverse as America and as populated as America as stupid and ignorant is an insult to every culture/subculture in America. This is a land of immigrants not just “Americans”.

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• 162. At 08:52am on 14 Oct 2008, Peter_Sym wrote:

  #136. On the contrary. My objection is that when British troops make mistakes (and I was a British soldier and very nearly made a fatal mistake on guard duty one night) its accepted as an accident. When US forces make the same mistakes we demand prosecutions. There have been several Brit on Brit cases of fatal friendly fire in Iraq & Afghanistn (starting with that Sgt made to give back his flak jacket and including the marine recused by his comrades hanging off the Apaches) yet have you ever heard one single call for prosecution in these cases?
  
  That italian cable car incident is a perfect example. The pilot made a small navigation error which resulted in a tragic ACCIDENT. He didn't intend to kill those people, indeed if he'd been flying any other aircraft other than an A6 intruder he'd have died himself yet it sounds like you want him charged with murder.
  
  The US won't co-operate precisely because of this mania for vengance (not justice) against their forces. You only have to look at the front page of the Sun after those two A-10s attacked our scimitars to see what sort of a trial they'd get.

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• 163. At 09:44am on 14 Oct 2008, DagHammarskjold wrote:

  newScrolllock - reply to message 156.
  
  Oh! Canada the largest country in the Americas, lucky they had a bit of imagination to call themselves Canada and not the Dominions of North America otherwise there might be some confusion!
  
  The 2nd largest country (area) in North America is the United States of America, that's the name, not America, (which is an accepted term in the English speaking world), it's the equivalent of Germany calling itself Europe.
  
  I'm not trying to strip you of any nationality and I've nothing against the U.S. but your states cover less than a 1/4 of the Americas, from other replies it seems the reasoning is a case of simplicity but can you not see how it might be perceived, as I said in another post, the naming of the British isle (Great Britain & Ireland etc...) irks the Irish Republic as it sounds like we (the UK) own them.

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• 164. At 12:25pm on 14 Oct 2008, tiptoplisamich wrote:

  #114: T1m0thy
  
  Your idea for the burger sounds intriguingly delicious. But since dear old Dad would undoubtedly disown me, I'll unfortunately have to leave the idea untried. (You know parents, eyes in the backs of their heads and all---someway, somehow Dad would fiind out).
  
  You're right---this is much more enjoyable than arguing about politics. Perhaps Jon could blog twice in each place, one post reserved entirely just for food :-)

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• 165. At 12:27pm on 14 Oct 2008, tiptoplisamich wrote:

  121. At 3:09pm on 13 Oct 2008, T1m0thy wrote:
  #103 tiptoplisamich
  
  That is exactly my point. I don't think that US built cars burst into flames the moment they are involved in a crash. Nor do I think that all Americans spend most of their time shooting each other. Hollywood, however, seems to think otherwise. My point was that Hollywood puts out a very misleading version of the US to the world.
  Hollywood also has a habit of distorting the truth to fit the US view of the world and it frequently tries to re write history.
  
  
  My misunderstanding---sorry about that and my only (lame) defense is far too early morning without enough coffee. :-)

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• 166. At 12:48pm on 14 Oct 2008, itzig66 wrote:

  #157 newScrolllock, you are making large assumptions in your interpretation of my post. I actually stated that i admire alot of the US's achievements. Your reaction to my comment upon your assertion that the US was the most successful country ever, (doesn't matter in what timeframe old son) and to then interprete a observation on the fate of previous Empires as a desire on my part to see the end of the US era is paranoia. Unfortunately that does seem to be one of the issues in the US today, a large number of persons who associate patriotism with nationalism (see an earlier post of mine) as a result rather paranoidly taking any criticism of their beloved country as an attack rather than simple commentary.

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• 167. At 5:01pm on 14 Oct 2008, Gary_A_Hill wrote:

  Dag... (#163), my research suggests that the origin of the term "British Isles" is ancient, predating even the Roman era. The modern usage seems to be that "Britain" means "Great Britain" and what might have been called "Lesser Britain" is called "Ireland." I don't think any ownership is implied by the use of the term "British Isles" although I can understand why the Irish would be sensitive about it.

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• 168. At 6:08pm on 14 Oct 2008, tx_girl wrote:

  People complaining about the lack of healthy food choices in the US...I think you're being a little close-minded. First of all, it's always hard to know where to find what you're looking for when you're traveling in a foreign country. I know I didn't always leave meals totally satisfied when I was traveling in the UK. However, I was happy to be there and realized that one subpar meal wasn't a reflection of the culinary offerings of an entire culture.
  
  Second, it might be true that most small towns across America don't have the best options for grocery shopping or dining-out, but in the larger cities there are some wonderful grocery stores that carry a wide variety of fresh, organic produce. We also have many, many amazing restaurants (not the chains!) that reflect our melting-pot culture. However, America is a big place, and not every small town along the highway has the local economy to support these types of places. So, if you're on a road trip, yes, you're mainly going to come across the fast food places that line the highway at every town, but this doesn't mean all small-town Americans live off of burgers and fries. Often people in these towns are growing their own produce or driving into the closest big city to do their grocery shopping to supplement their diets.
  
  

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• 169. At 8:25pm on 14 Oct 2008, Noliving wrote:

  DagHammarskjold: Oh who cares about land mass size, the only time that really matter was with Austrailia. USA was the first independent nation on both of the american contintents so its not a surprise they might call themselves United States of America which would then be shorteren down to Americans and considering USA is the only country to actually have the word America in its name.... What would you call them? United Statians? I understand how it might irk other parts of the continents but considering those from south america are called South Americans and considering those from north america are North Americans there is a clear difference between those terms and americans Due to the difference between the sounds of the words:
  
  North America, South America, Americas, and Americans.
  
  Its quite obvious who/what you are referring too as long as you use those terms. What about when South Americans use the term Americans to describe people from the South America even though they are not referring to people in North America? Is that not a case of simplification considering the correct term is South Americans? What about when people refer to South koreans as just koreans even though there is a North korea, yes I know that when people use the term korea they are not always referring to just south korea but the majority of the time they are.
  
  The biggest problem is that there seems to be a movement that it is WRONG of USA to have the demonym be Americans for their country.
  
  Now here is a question for you here. Besides Austrailia, how many people when asked where they are from refer to their continent first rather then their country? I mean how many asians say when asked where they are from say they are from Asia? How many europeans when asked where they are from say they are from europe as their first answer?

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• 170. At 05:53am on 15 Oct 2008, christianleft wrote:

  Jon I'll be happy to.
  
  
  Independence day on fourth of July is the ultimate BBQ day and to celebrate I make a red white and blue burger which I'm sure many of you Americans have had.
  
  This yields 4 burgers
  
  93/7 lean sirlioin one lb
  6 ounces of blue cheese
  One small red onion granted
  One red onion sliced roundwise
  one egg(lightly beaten)
  1/8 cup of plain bread crumbs
  3 tbs of jack daniels bbq sauce
  onion powder, garlic powder, seasoned salt(or sea salt)
  Freshly baked hamburger buns toasted
  
  mix sirloin, cheese, grated oinion, seasoning, egg, bbq sauce with your hand until very well incorporated. Heat 2 tbs of veg oil in large shallow skillet, form burgers into four parts. Cook rare, med or well done to taste. For well done 7 min on each side. Turn to low heat top burgers with blue cheese and cover skillet 3 minutes. In another pan on med-low heat with olive oil saute onions 5 minutes (and mushrooms if desired). Serve your burger with lettuce, tomatoes, bbq sauce or whatever else suits you. Of course you could grill it outside and the recipe is even better but it is October.
  
  I hope you enjoy the recipe Jon.

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• 171. At 10:39am on 15 Oct 2008, Peter_Sym wrote:

  #167. 'Lesser Britain' is Brittany in Northern France. About the 5th century AD (King Arthur Time) it was a kingdom populated by Brits who spoke the same language and worshiped the same gods as us. Both Britain proper and Brittany were both eventually conquered by German tribes: the saxons & angles in the UK from where the word england comes and the Franks in Brittany from where France comes from. In Roman times Ireland was called Hibernia. The British Isles is generally accepted as being every bit of Rock between France and Iceland. It does annoy the Irish but so do many things.

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• 172. At 6:22pm on 15 Oct 2008, Corinini wrote:

  American food as people understand it (burgers, fast food, pizza) didn't really originate here, it came from immigrants who brought it over. However, in the man decades that they have been here, we have adopted these things as our own and given them a distinct "flavor". Anyone who has eaten pizza in europe and the u.s. can tell you that they are two very different beasts. It is the same with a lot of other food, what we call "chinese food" here is very Americanized, as is "mexican food" and "italian food". All of that is really "American food" since the version you get here is VERY different from anything you get in the actual native country. It'ss od of immigrants, and since we are a country of immigrants, it makes sense.
  
  However, the ORIGINAL American food is what you eat on thanksgiving. Corn, potatoes, turkey, squash, beens, etc...
  
  And personally, it is much tastier than a burger. Although people posting here are correct when they say that real burgers do not come from McDonalds. My recipe:
  
  1/3 pound ground beef
  pepper
  other italian spices (oregano, basil, etc...)
  chopped onion
  chopped garlic
  a dash of mustard (the "glue" if you will)
  
  grilled
  
  add slice of cheddar cheese
  add toppings
  - common : lettuce, tomato, red onion
  - other: bacon, guacamole, roasted peepers/onions, mushrooms, pickles, relish, etc...
  toasted buns
  

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• 173. At 10:34pm on 17 Oct 2008, bhapiorelse wrote:

  I have to agree with tx_girl. If you know where to shop, you can eat anything in the good old USA, just like in every other country. For those who complain about bad American food, I have eaten bad European and Asian food - at least in my mind. The people with whom I was dining enjoyed it imensely and thought it was quite good. I am not a vegetarian nor will I ever be one but that doesn't mean my family doesn't eat healthy. None of us have a weight problem, all of us exercise. It's called "balance".
  
  Having said that, one of my FAVORITE burger recipes includes smoked Chipotle peppers (from our garden), green olives (no pimentios), feta cheese, and a light, homemade dressing that I will not share with anyone outside my family but that contains a lot of different yummy things and is mixed directly with the ground meat. For a lighter, healthier burger we usually mix equal parts beef and turkey or chicken either pre-ground or ground together then mixed with all seasonings. I like to either mix the cheese right into the meat, or sprinkle a bit on top. Then LIGHTLY toast the olives and peppers together in a bit of EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) - my hubby likes to add onions, garlic and other great things as well - or stick toppings in basket right on the grill with the burgers, and assemble on your choice (read, whatever is in the house at the time) of pita bread, wheat or white buns or over mashed, fried or chunked potatoes or rice. Burgers are an American tradition but like everything else in our great country - there is no WRONG way to do it!

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• 174. At 2:43pm on 01 Nov 2008, Supadan1977 wrote:

  At 12:04pm on 13 Oct 2008, newScrolllock wrote:
  Supadan1977 wrote:"I have not read all the responses to this article, just a few, but from the few I have read I find it hilarious that Americans are upset by the stereotypical image the rest of the world has of them."
  
  You take pleasure in seeing people "upset?"
  
  Of course not. I just dont think you should get so wound up about somebody else's observations. Its not that important to make everyone agree with you.
  
  "Every nation has sterotypical images that the rest of the world refers to. Thats why Brits on American TV shows always have an emperial accent, drink tea, and watch play cricket."
  
  None of which are insulting, unlike most American stereotypes coming from that side of the Atlantic.
  
  You are right, they are not insulting in nature, but they are compeltely inaccurate and therefore equally irrelevant. Therefore not worth getting upset about.
  
  Dood, everyone who goes through life hoping that people like them, and have an accurate impression of them which is wholesome. You get upset when you hear someone has doesnt. But you cant always defend it, and you can often make it worse by trying. You cant influence history or everyones impression of you or your country. You can do what you can today. You've clearly got a strong opinion on a lot of peoples comments on here, and you are clearly very intelligent. Use that energy more inelligently, or you'll get an ulcer.
  
  I had the pleasure of meeting a young American chap a few months ago. He was the son of my wife's firms CEO and he needed entertaining for the day, so we went and watched some live sports. He had a lot of knowledge and strong opinions about world politics, and he was keen to put the US point of view forward. I did the same for the UK. He changed my mind on a few things, I changed his mind on a few things, but ultimately neither of us changed our overall opinion. It was nice to be able to chat, disagree, and not fall out. It was a rare exchange, irrespective of where we were from. A lot of the points of view he had that I changed were based on his misconceptions of the UK. And visa versa. What made it happen was that neither of us won, or lost the argument. we were just educating each other. It was great.

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