Matthew Parris
MPH 2008
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From The Times
June 7, 2008
How to detoxify the noble American brand
By choosing the right man for the White House, Americans can salvage the inspiring idea of the United States
I don't write much about America. This newspaper boasts reporters and commentators with so much better knowledge and wisdom in this field that my three-ha'pence-worth seems superfluous. It's years since I was at university in Connecticut and my finger is no longer anywhere near the pulse of Washington politics or American culture.
So this column, provoked by the suspension of Hillary Clinton's campaign, will be an unusual trespass into unfamiliar territory. It is written by a comparative ignoramus and complete outsider.
But maybe it's worth venturing a view from the outside. While very hesitant indeed about Barack Obama, and pretty incredulous about John McCain, I feel as an Englishman the strongest possible impulse to wish both well - and to wish well the idea of America that they might embody. It is not an impulse I could have felt so strongly toward Senator Clinton or Mitt Romney, two eminently capable and decent politicians of whom I know no ill.
What is it about Senators Obama and McCain that inspires this particular British commentator to see them as men who might meet America's need at this moment in the nation's history? To answer, I need a word that takes us on from where my colleague Daniel Finkelstein left his column on Wednesday - with the sentence “Who soars, wins”.
The word is nobility. America is more than a country: it is an idea. How the world sees the idea of America matters not just to the world, but, increasingly, to America. The idea of America thirsts for a reinforcing shot of nobility. Only a president can provide it.
Somebody, I suppose, has to care whether Mrs Clinton is best placed to win the blue-collars or the Hispanics; or whether Mr Obama can extend his appeal beyond blacks and liberal intellectuals; or whether Mr McCain should balance his free-thinking reputation by choosing this or that individual as running-mate. But if Americans would raise their eyes beyond socioeconomic groupings to the horizon, they might see something huge and worrying in prospect. It is the loss of their nation's honour in the world; and they should ask themselves how and where they will find a president to secure and bring it back to them.
I used the word “nobility”. In political communications we have endured a great deal of keyword strategy-mongering over the past decade. Vision. Hope. Dream. Reform. New. Inclusive. Compassionate. And, ever and again, Change, Authenticity, and Feel Your Pain. These are cool, modern, buzzy concepts, and you may think “nobility” out of place among them: an old-fashioned concept with elitist undertones. Like all the primal human qualities the word eludes definition except in its own terms; but we know what it means. It includes ideas of dignity, of unself-interestedness, of largeness of spirit, and of a rising above spite, faction and greed.
Justifiably or otherwise, this element of nobility has been a strong strand in the legend of America. I could argue that the reality has often departed from the legend and that qualities such as nobility should be attached to individual human beings rather than to nations. But whether legend or fact, few would deny that the idea of nobility has been important to the way that the United States has seen itself, and the way we outsiders have seen the United States. I don't think that the Statue of Liberty represents an entirely hollow idea, or that the words “Give me your poor, your tired, your huddled masses...” are without resonance. Or that they and the exalted spirit animating them could easily be attached to the name of any other nation on Earth.
Nobody should (and I don't) represent the history of the United States as the continuous triumph of altruism and principle. I wouldn't even claim the preponderance of those qualities. But they do, if fitfully, appear to recur: a sort of trademark for America. Rightly or wrongly, names such as Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, Wilson, Truman, Roosevelt, Kennedy - even, abroad, Carter and Clinton - would, put to any multinational focus group, test positive for perceived moral stature not just as domestic politicians, but as figures in world history. I would argue for the inclusion in that list of Ronald Reagan, too - there was something big about the old man; just as there seemed to be an air of decency surrounding George Bush Sr. Put in the fashionable terms of 21st-century marketing, there has persistently been something noble in the American brand.
I wonder whether most Americans have understood in how parlous a condition this version of America now finds itself abroad. Seen from outside, the essential nobility of the American ideal is close to shattering. The American Eagle, as we abroad see the creature, looks sick - perhaps mortally so.
I wonder, too, whether most Americans, or the cheerleaders on this side of the Atlantic for the present Republican Administration, have understood the urgency as well as the depth of this crisis for the American brand. During George W. Bush's first term I argued on these pages that he and his friends risked imperilling something more valuable to America than Iraqi deserts. This risk is now close to tipping over. International opinion always hungers for ogres and America is in imminent danger of being cast in that role. Across the free world, the Soviet Union appeared for decades in the guise of World Enemy No1. In June 2008, the US is not far from feeling that yoke descend upon its shoulders. It's a heavy yoke to bear, for once it settles, everything a nation does is seen by outsiders through the prism of that country's supposed ill-intentions.
We could argue about whether this would be fair. I would say not. We could argue too about whether neoconservatism is essentially ignoble. Again I would say not: Kennedy's foreign policy (“bear any burden, pay any price...”) can be seen as neoconservative before the name was even invented. Instead I would maintain that no particular policy, and no particular individual - even George W. Bush - has alone threatened the idea of American nobility, but that a malign combination of events and people, including McCarthyism, the Vietnam War, three terrible assassinations, Watergate, Iraq, Guantanamo Bay, men such as President Bush, Donald Rumsfeld and Dick Cheney, and attitudes to global warming, has conspired to threaten the legend.
In the way that Americans do politics, one person stands head and shoulders above all else in defining the nation to itself and the world. That person is the president, and it is personal. Not just in what he does but in what he is or seems to be, a president can make America feel and look a nobler idea. I happen to think that both Mr Obama and Mr McCain are distinguished from the other would-be candidates by conveying, in their speech and in their personal histories, an idea of nobility. I wonder whether in some subliminal way those voting in the primaries sensed this, and sensed its importance. I hope so, and that in the campaigns ahead both candidates can do what eagles do - soar.
Matthew Parris is concerned for our nobility. The malign confluence of people and events threatening our nobility include the Iraq war, Guantanamo Bay, George Bush, Dick Cheney and attitudes to global warming. Stop me if you see a pattern here. Only if we rise above our faction and socioeconomic groupings to embrace the socialist ideals of pacifism and unquestioned belief in anthropocentric global warming can we become that good America in the eyes of the world. Barack Obama is a good Black American, educated and articulate with the astuteness to never upset his tolerant supporters by discussing racism. Europeans love minorities from America, unlike their own minority groups who they willingly discriminate against, because they represent the antithesis of its white establishment which any progressive intellectual can assure you is too materialistic, Christian and bellicose. Eagles leave the safety of their nest to ride the air currents of an approaching storm, instinctively knowing they will carry them higher. Turkeys seek shelter and hide until a storm has passed. It’s hard to soar like an eagle if you elect a turkey for President.
Christopher George, River City, United States
Beatiful article - provides much food for thought. Personally I am pessimistic about brand USA's recovery and marvel at how quickly (50 years) it all went pear-shaped. The War on Terror is part of the problem and here's Barak "Mr. Change" Obama declaring how he is going to continue it. Depressing.
haralambos, joburg,
George Bush is Abraham Lincoln? This must be the punch-line - how does the joke go?
haralambos, joburg,
You hate Bush now, but Reagan was hated by the world too at times. He was one of the most honorable Presidents we ever had. He brought down Communism by standing up to it. President Bush is standing up to terrorism and he wil bring it down. It is already happening. HEARD OF ANY SUCIDE BOMBERS LATELY
dc, Lumberton, USA
Being noble begins with the peoples attitude. As long as people are trying to improve their situation (better job, more education, etc) the less government we will need. With the Democrat ideas proposals, forcing people to be dependant on the government, lessening Americas chance to be more noble.
Steve, Kansas City, United States
Just how is Obama conveying the idea of nobility, Mr Parris? I can see why you don't write about America very often. You've fallen for the image. I would have thought that after Blair most Englishmen would have been impervious to spin and veneer. Not the case, obviously.
John Bull, Wolverhampton,
Dave, Palm Bay, Florida, USA
Bush has taken away more freedoms than any recent democrat..
Patriot Act, Warrantless phone tapping etc...
Stop being so scared of the red herring of socalism that the republicans are feeding you... and look at the actual candidates and their actual positions.
mk, CA,
It was Britain who annexed Palistine and dumped 2 million W.W.2 refugees in M. East. 70% of Britains know Global Warming is not caused by CO2, and the Iraq war was started
in London by B.P. Shell and their largest shareholder the Queen. Bush leaves behind a right of centre Europe.
We win again.
Joseph Caulfield, Tullamore, Ireland
"George W Bush is Abraham Lincoln to the world. "
Brad Jensen, Tulsa, OK, USA
American Satire? or some kind of new Republican brain-washing technique? I can't think of any other reason to make that statement....
mk, CA,
If you think that current state of the ideal of democracy, human rights, and freedom, as epitomized best by the USA, is dependent on the views of Europeans, then you are condescending and vain to the max. Corrupt politicians do not represent the United States, its people do.
Kagiso Anthony, Gaborone, Botswana
Why should we care what the world thinks. This world has given us two world wars, Rwanda, Sudan, and a "United Nations" that is corrupt. The USA needs to elect someone who going to look out for their interest and not the EUs or the UNs. Obama and McCain are business as usual.
Juan, Martinez, USA
America should choose the President based on what they can do for America, not what the rest of the world thinks.
Kent, Fort Worth, TX, USA
Nothing earth-shattering here. Every four years, the Yanks have the opportunity for a bloodless revolution. They can, if they wish, throw out the party in office, and bring in a party with principles totally opposite. Or, they can keep them! What a rare opportunity in this world of ours.
Bob Evans, Anaheim, California
Sprinkled in with the mildly agreeable sentiments of our journalist, are several challenging notions to which we do bear some witness. The wonder of democracy is that it allows us to unite the many diverse opinions given above, into a cohesive trust. The essential nobility of that sum persists.
Roger, Victoria, Canada
America needs a dramatic shift from the Far Right Winged Republican dominated self interest political policies. John McCain has greatly supported the policies of his party and Bush. It is not realistic to think he will suddenly change back to the Maverick. Obama is truly a uniter and yes...fresh air
Richard Denson, Atlanta, United States
Please do not pin the expectation of "nobility" on the outcome of our American election. It is a foreign notion anyway and so subjective that it would amount to trying to make your vote count with someone else! We are electing a president here not a king.
JL Ronish, seattle Washington, usa
You captured the idea of nobility and its place in American history and through the presidency beautifully. You had my agreement until the last para. Nobility is not so much in what is said and more "in their personal histories." Yesterday is now history, too. I hope the SDs are paying attention.
Jeannie, Seattle, USA
It will be a close election and no matter who wins they will be vilified by the losers. There is no redemption so long as we only have two parties to choose from.
Ron, Santa Rosa, USA
Americans can certainly be closed-minded, and ironically, the ones who have been the most closed-minded are Obama supporters. They refuse to scrutinize both candidates and decide who is the most qualified. Instead they simply dismiss Senator McCain as "McBush" or "McSame". Very childish indeed.
Tracy, Connecticut, USA
The right MAN for the job? PERSON maybe?! Sorry Hillary, you tried. I guess it's a mans world after all.
jessi, New York, USA
I'm confused by the American conservative failures who claim to hate European opinion so much, yet they can't keep themselves off of foreign blogs and news articles. The xenophobic, cronyistic, lazy and stupid Republican era is ending. It's finally morning in America.
Jay, Miami, Florida, USA
The words and actions, successes and failures, of the President or Prime Minister just mirror the quality of collective consciousness of the people in the nation. On both sides of the Atlantic our focus has to be on education to develop full potential and create a more integrated, positive nation.
Dr Peter Warburton, London, England
To: Tom, New York,
You have misunderstood the article and the problem. America is not Rome and cannot rule the world through fear. The attempt to rule others, through intimidation, must stop. It is time to put down the gun and start talking, as the UK successfully did with Ireland.
Marc, Paris, France
As an American, I'm grateful to Mr. Parris for his spot-on assessment of our current state of political affairs. America is more than a country; it is an idea as Mr. Parris states. It is also an ideal to which all humans, both free and oppressed, should aspire.
Doug , Sonoma, USA
The Americans have had enough of a futile Middle-Eastern adventure all in the interests of G. Bush & Halliburton, Blackwater, etc. & want out. This is Obama's strongest card. McCain wants to stay in Iraq for another 100 years, so he says, & this against a weak economy.This is an interesting contest.
Ian cheese, london, uk
Nobility? I wish that the Europeans would demonstrate some.
Has it ever occurred to them that standing by and watching massacres is not noble? That intimidating and fining people for voicing their opinions is not noble? That pandering to terrorists is not noble?
Tom, New York, USA
Picking the right man for the whitehouse has little effect on how people view us. They hate us because of our prosperity. It's been a simple "rule of thumb" from the dawn of time. Those with less, hate those with more. We have the most "freedom" a civilization has ever garnered...
Mike, Parker, USA
The pointy headed Marxists in Europe will never like America so I couldn't care less what any of them think. This upcoming election is all about whether we as a nation slide further into the Marxist/Socialist abyss. President Obama + Democrat controlled Congress = more socialism, less freedom
Dave, Palm Bay, Florida, USA
The premise of this column was to bring reminder to the American ideals. Ironically, we now have a Socialist candidate who wants to take away its citizens earnings in the name of "fairness". America deserves better than that. We were built on freedom, entrepreneurship, and capitalism. Not BIG gov't.
Kevin, New York City, USA
It is critical that our European friends remember to respect America's unique culture and values.
We are not a secular nation but one that was built on Judeo-Christian values;
We fully support and defend the right to bear arms;
The majority of Americans support the death penalty.
Thomas, St. Petersburg, FL, USA, USA
A highly amusing article.
As if it will make the slightest difference whoever becomes president!
Lynda B, london, UK
Obama is a socialist. Wealth transfer, Gov't controlled Health Care and Increased Taxes. A Gov't is the answer for everything. He has no energy policy and no experience. Bottomline: A Big Empty Suit.
Joe Jones, Vernon,
I do think Matthew Parris has some good points for readers to ponder for America's future. I sense his friendship.
Re: The world's view of the U.S.A. I don't think we should get too wrapped up in that game. Once upon a time God blessed our nation. Perhaps it is high time to cut off foreign aid!
John, Issaquah, U.S.A.
I think you should write more articles about America. Believe it or not, we need to hear more pluralistic view points. I know we seemed obsessed with our "American" dream, but I love the UK because it's so diverse and forthcoming. Noble or not, American need more of the British Invasion. Peace!
Jamie, Missouri , USA
What you blokes will never understand. It is not the noblity of the president; it's not the genius of the CEO it's the peopleof the USA that makes this dream work. A nation of the people for the people.. do not count us out.
Ken Jones, Mantua, USA
McCain nor Obama has what the US/World needs. Americans are to caught up in Race or Political party to see the global picture. Sadly most make uneducated decisions when voting. Also in US politics $$ covers a + of sins.
Our leaders in Washington have failed us...but we failed by electing them.
Lynn, Gypsum, CO., United States
Neither Obama nor McCain will restore America to health, much less to nobility. Dr. Ron Paul WOULD, because he understands and has spent 30 years defending liberty -- the foundation of everything that was ever good about this country. The GOP has made it clear they'd rather lose than nominate Paul.
Glen, Williams, USA
America is history, so who cares?
Ian cheese, london, uk
I just wish that foreigners, whose knowledge comes only from the leftest press and the inane TV that gets shipped over seas, could just spend a few pounds/ euros and see for themselves what America is really all about. It is, by any measure, the friendliest, fairest, and most generous of all.
Pieter, Bethel Park, USA
I will cast my vote for president without worrying what the world thinks of America. I don't have the time. America has nothing to prove to the world. Can someone please take the UN off our hands? We'll promise never to send another soldier anywhere in the world. That's what you want, right?
Pat, Keyport, NJ, USA
After reading some of the blog and reading from the article. I just want to say that I have been ashamed to have Bush as president of this country that I love and to ruin our respect within the rest of the world. It can not be soon enough to see him and his criminal friend Cheney leave office
Larry, Massachusetts, USA
So sad, both article and blog. When you don't like someone you attack the person. Pres Bush is not evil, though you might really disagree with his policy, he is trying to do what is best. He might make mistakes, but I would rather have a mistake from good intention then action form ill will.
TaraCole, Memphis, USA
Bush would fight Hitler, Kerry would have needed more UN resolutions. Who was it that stated "Evil is what happens when good men do nothing?" Wonder if that same person could even make it in this day and age.
TaraCole, Memphis, USA
The world's contempt for America says more that's negative about the rest of the world than about the noble American spirit which has tried for the last 200 years to drag the rest of the world, kicking & screaming, to a better place!
Cara, New Jersey, USA
Steve,
Hamas and PLO, ECT do not want Obama elected. They are hoping to damage him so people will vote for the Bush clone.
Bush has been the best thing that has ever happened to these killers. Thanks to his stupid war they have recruited thousands if not millions of new terrorists.
Anny, Gainesville, USA
I wonder what other nations would think if outsiders seem to know the best candidate? It is strange that Hamas, the PLO and everyone else really wants Barak to be elected. Could it be that they like a left center leader who is weak on national defense and will be the US version of R Camberlain?
Steve, Jackson, USA
Where is Britain's minority Prime Minister? How soon will it be before you are living under Sharia Law?
Karen, Texas,
I voted against Gore & Kerry,, regardless I would have liked to have voted for a fellow Viet-Nam vet, & in Kerry's case, a fellow Catholic. I don't regret having given Bush my votes.
Whatever some sissies think about the Viet-Nam war, I remain proud I went (twice) to 'Nam to fight, & was WIA.
William Livingston, El Paso County, Colorado, USA
Why do the Europeans, especially the English, like to put America under close scrutiny. I strongly feel it is not the position of the English to do so. England is quickly becoming an Islamic country and there is now more crime in the UK than America. Fix your own problems first.
Jane, singapore, singapore
Ann, Things are rough, but get the facts on inflation. It is two quarters of negative growth. The US has weak but positive growth. Unemployment at 5.5%, lower than most nations and GNP that is over 13 trillion dollars. We have oil reserves in the lower 48 estimated up to two trillion barrels
Steve, Jackson, USA
Mr. Peel, Houston, USA
Mr. Peel I could not agree with you more. America is a nation with many unknown heros and that it is this essential factor that is her greatest hope. I just think history shows she lacks the moral and political integriy to assert herself as a model for others.
Larry Levine, Montreal,
"... I do not believe we need political heroes, I strongly doubt the US is systemically capable of producing one.
Larry Levine, Montreal, ..."
Larry, it is the thing that I love about my country; our heroes are the ones that nobody hears about, save the people that know them. A nation full of them
Mr. Peel, Houston, USA
Neil: Want to know what I think? As a former soldier, I think that you should be glad that the Brits (and all other coalition forces) were even willing to join the fight; it is our fight, not theirs. I won't pretend to know if you have served; but I know that these men in Basra have. Embarrassment.
Mr. Peel, Houston, USA
I'm an educated and compassionate man, and an Army Reservist. A Soviet-style press could hardly hope to do better in Europe. The difference on the ground in Iraq and in the MSM is surreal. America is still the best, last hope while Europe is on the brink of demographic suicide. Purple fingers.
Fletcher Patrick Neeley, Denver, USA
Has American "nobility" ever been anything more than rhetoric? Has it ever risen above the duplicity of its founding fathers? Is it possible for any American poltician to do otherwise? I do not believe we need political heroes, I strongly doubt the US is systemically capable of producing one.
Larry Levine, Montreal,
Uh, yeah...I'll have the Ron Paul Super Principled Constitutional Meal. Oh, that's been discontinued? Then gimme a JohnMcBush samich-Biggie Sized-with a side of middle east intervention and a medium order of inflation / debt combo. Ok? Yeah. And that's to go; I'm taking it with me to Europe.
Michael OBrien, Denver, USA
Actually, some of us Americans are worried about the course being taken by the Europeon Union. We do know that Islam is the second largest religion in France and that while the Muslim population is growing rapidly, most European countries' birth rate of their native people is declining. Worried?
Sue Garret, Wharton, United States
McCain Says We’re NOT Headed Into a Recession. McCain said, “I don’t believe we’re headed into a recession. I believe the fundamentals of this economy are strong, and I believe they will remain strong.” (GOP Debate, Myrtle Beach, FNC, 1/10/08). Sorry, Jared in Cali - McBush reflects whose values???
Ann, Boise, ID, USA
I think this was a thoughtful article and I appreciate the unbiased assessment. I truly hope the next administration reaches out to our European friends to strengthen that bond. However, I think Obama does not embody American values and I hope McCain is given the opp'ty to show America's nobility.
Jared, California, USA
Why do some Americans come onto British news websites, read articles written about America and then say: "We don't care what you think"?
Are they lost? How did they get here if they're not interested? Why did they bother to read anything if they don't care?
Iain Thorpe, Wellington, New Zealand
Americans should now prove to the world what they have always preached; true democracy beyond colour or race! What a pity, what a sin, to elect presidents as black or white and not by policies! what a pity!
Becky , Helsinki,
Thank you for being a cheerleader on that side of the Atlantic. Thank you for caring. Thank you for standing on our senate floor in support the day after 9-11. Thank you for writing the truth without reflecting arrogance and superiority in this article.
Terri, Salt Lake City, USA
Maybe, just maybe, we don't care what you think--eh?
Wanna know what I think? I think while American boys were catching bullets and road side bombs, the English handed Basra to Iran and have been hiding in a Basra airport hangar waiting for a moonless night to effect retreat. Thanks, friend.
neil, North Cambridge, Mass.,
The purpose of the US election is to determine who will govern us Americans, not who will cause Europeans to improve their opinions of us.
Marc (US citizen in Canada), Saskatoon, Canada
The right man for the White House is John McCain, The thoughts of Obama being there is scary. Why do you think that our enemies and the terrorists would like to see Obama, or essentially ANY Democrat in the White House? Their whole philosophy is appeasement, while our enemies plot.
Colonel R., Lakeridge, VA, USA
We don't really need any Europeans telling the US what we should be. Europe is directly responsible for much of the world's problems and still refuses to act as a responsible player. Picture Africa, Afghanistan, Iran, etc. Quite frankly, It doesn't matter what the rest of the world thinks of us.
Steve, Tucson, USA
Writing you from a place known for branding and selling everything from soda to blockbuster films, I hope our next goal as a nation is to re-brand the kind of ideals that you mention. Even if one agreed with US policy since 9/11, the PR damage internationally is unmistakable. Thanks for the piece.
Troy, Hollywood, USA
Cheers Matthew for the "outsider's" hope for the upcoming election. As an American who has lived in the UK for 8 years, I have seen the same decline in that sense of nobility you speak of. I am frequently asked who I wish to be the next President, and now I know. I want nobility to prevail.
Jason Dwight, Stockport, UK
Well, we'll have to wait at least 4 years to choose the right man: there's only McCain and Obama left.
DrZin, New Orleans,
Thank you, Matthew, for an eloquent and resonant essay. It is up to these men to articulate their vision for this country and its standing in the world. I pray that we are up to the challenge. The world is too much with us to give up to dark forces of hate and division. We need healing and dialogue.
Rochelle Haas, North Canton Ohio, USA
The true damage was not caused by Bush's reaction to 9/11, but western european for igniting 9/11 to begin with. With all your european conspiracy theories about 9/11 being an "inside job," the truth is 9/11 was plotted on western european soil spurred by rabid ant-Americanism.
Triana Douglas, Seattle, USA
Having read Tony Allen-Mills' article in the Sunday Times I was moved to point out that John Kennedy Junior was, in fact, Caroline Kennedy's younger brother - she, indeed was the elder child of John F Kennedy and his wife, Jackie.
Marian Quy, Solihull, England
Well said Matthew and thanks for your candid observations. I fear the loss of "nobility" may partly be due to the election process. For one thing it seems to never be over. For another, candidates get so beat up in the process they are too damaged to effictively serve. Serving others is noble.
Zeke, Creede, USA
Whilst I do not wish it on any candidate, it is clear that the majority of white folk in the USA` democrats included will vote in Mccain, on the basis at his age he will be a one term President. Also it is noticeable that many USA folk who are interviewed believe that obama wil be attacked.
R. Redmond , Venice, USA
Sir, As I looked at your presumptuous title, I begrudgingly began to read, and then stop, when I got to the 'Punch' line of some sarcastic critical bash of one to promote another with some twisted brand of arrogant aristocratic journalist superiority. Rather, an EXCELLENT read to the end, Mate.
Dr. Jones, Saint Louis, USA
As a Canadian, I do believe this piece was written by "a comparative ignoramus and complete outsider." We see Americans more realistic because we are intertwined and connected as no other. HE did REALLY mean you are either with us or with the terrorists. Boots are already on the ground. Go figure!
Margarita Baja, Toronto, Canada
Matthew Parris castigates President Bush for his attitude to global warming. But on 15/12/2007 he wrote -"I don't believe in half the certainties of the science (of climate change).
" who knows how much of this climate change is caused by us ?" Has he changed his mind ? Can he explain why ?
Andrew Wride, Banchory,
As a frequent visitor to Europe I am interested in European perceptions of the United States. However, those perceptions are often tainted by a left wing ideology that holds no sway with many Americans. The inclusion of Clinton & Carter as historical moral figures reflects this ideology.
DJ Holler, Fallbrook, CA
That Americans do not have passports should not be surprising, and is not particularly telling. Please take your superior global knowledge to a library and study a world atlas. You will learn why Europeans might have had a greater need for passports than have Americans.
Pat Glaze, Seattle, USA
Having read some of the comments here I would like to tell the american people many people here in the U.K. and Europe would love it if you would take your troops out of our countries. Take home your army of occupation please and all your nuclear warheads.We dont need you and we dont want you.
pete, devon, uk
Here! Here! Thanks for this, Matthew. Indeed we have much work to do.
John Renesch, San Francisco,
James Dickens, UK--Honestly, this stuff about per capita giving gets old. After the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, some small nation's citizens may have given more per capita, but who showed up with the aircraft carriers, helicopters and manpower necessary to get food and medical supplies to victims?
Terry Walker, Ladson, SC / USA
To Sally Carroll: I don't think anyone could have forgotten your '9/11'. When I think of the US, that's one of the first words that come to my mind, because after almost seven years you Americans still blame the whole world for those TWO burning buildings and use it to justify inhumanity and wars.
Martin Schönberger, Vienna, Austria
The US has been debased for more than 50 years. The restoration of Our Constitution is our only hope to fix our ills. People blame politicians, big biz, et al. but our complacency & greed have blinded us from truth. Our govt' is out of balance, Obama or McCain cant fix that. Maybe Ron Paul can.
Regina, Missouri, US
I could care less about America's image abroad. Stop our aid, withdrawl our troops globally and focus on the US. Let europe and teh rest of the world build and pay for their own military since they are so free to give their opinion on America's.
Kelly, Lauderdale, US
I am an American who doesn't blame Bush for "devaluing" our country. T. Green of Lenox, Massachusetts does not speak for "most" of us. I believe our president made the proper decisions based on the information he was given at the time. Too many people like T. Green have forgotten 9/11/01.
Sally Carroll, Easton, PA, United States of America
Kelly is wrong that the US is "ever ... giving whenever asked". The US is by far the lowest per capita aid giver of any developed nation. It is, however, "ever present" even when not asked: the US accounts for 48% of global military spending, regularly intervening militarily across the world.
James Dickins, Bolton, United Kingdom
Many of us are ashamed that the 'idea' of America has been devalued by Bush, et al. It's been a long time since a leader has embodied what we cherish - the nobility, the decency of that idea. Barack Obama does, and he articulates what America aspires to be, has been: a beacon, an ideal.
T. Greene, Lenox, Massachusetts, USA
You don't follow the Constitution though. It says "No State shall ... make any Thing but gold and silver Coin a Tender in Payment of Debts". In 1971 America broke the dollar's link with gold and started down the road to Credit Crunch City where we are now.
yorrrick, Maidenhead, UK
I can t say I agree with you. It is the American institutions that have sustained the country. Individuals are too vulnerable, and in the case of the image of the Presidency too much a function of events and the Press to have any inherent value. I would submit that what America urgently needs to do to detoxify the brand, and bring its institutional framework into the 21 st century, is to remove the power of the President to declare war. It doesn t have anything more important to do than that.
Henry Percy, London, UK
I am tremendously proud to be an American. I also believe that our living Constitution guides us. We are maligned by the media all over the world, yet we are ever present and giving whenever asked. We are not mortally wounded...and our eagle will soar again.
Kelly, El Cajon, California, USA
It is the Constitution of America which soars. And a North American Union threatens it.
B, Warrenton, GA
If only the liberal mass media would clean up its act, the USA would be that shining city on the hill again. Lies told often enough are believed. There are great people here, but they are not running for President. Ask yourselves, why on earth would anyone want to commit suicide by politics?
Madeleine Baines, Bellingham WA state, USA
We Americans are asked to worry over what Europe thinks. Do Europeans really know how diminished the European brand has become here among us regular folk?
We largely look at Europeans as cowardly, lazy and naive. Nor will we easily give you our sons and daughters to defend you anymore.
Mark DeRaud, fresno, usa
Thumbs up to Marianne.
Do British subjects honestly expect us Americans to base our vote on European perceptions of our 'brand'? How silly.
& although I'm an O'Bama supporter I don't like to see John McCain being talked about as though he were another dunce like W. He's a better man by far.
Tim, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
I too am an American, and you are absolutely right except for including McCain. Our moral compass is spinning, led as we have been in recent times by the narrow-minded, ruthless yet mediocre minds of corporate theocracy, aka the Republican Party. Obama can help; McCain is more of the same.
Portia, Irvine, USA
We Americans are as flawed as humans anywhere. There's never been a "Golden Age" when we were all good kind and likeable. Our history reveals a constant, often losing struggle with villainy and ignorance. Such is the human condition.
It's the idea of America which soars. And all humans own it.
Duncan, Dighton, Massachusetts
This op-ed just confirms what I have long suspected -- deep down inside everyone else in this world really, really wants to be an American.
Haven, KY, USA
Many Americans appear to be indifferent about the rest of the world but they need to remember that in their current state they need the rest of the world's money to allow their way of life to continue. If they are seen as flaky & unpleasant there is every chance that the cash will dry up...
John Reid, Wellington, New Zealand
I think you chaps should stop thinking that Obama is JFK. He's more like Blair. New Labour had catchy soundbites and Blair's phenomenal political talent. Like NuLab, Obamism doesn't seem to know anything except throwing money at the state.
Christopher Chantrill, Seattle, USA
Perhaps you Brits should worry about your own nobility, which you abandoned long ago. Most Americans know it's pointless to worry about what the world thinks of us. It's an essential element in our character, doing what we wish as we will. Those years in CT, didn't you learn anything about us?
Sadie, Richmond, USA
In 20 years George W. Bush will be another Harry Truman. He is noble for ignoring the polls and staying when the left got queasy and he is being proved right. His perseverance and character are befitting of an American president in the very best of traditions. Speak for yourself, Eilidh!
Deane Pradzinski, HIghland, California, USA
I find it comical that Europeans (and the Left) are always saying America needs to redeem itself in the eyes of the world. What I would like is for the world to redeem itself in the eyes of America.
Martin, Milwaukee, USA
Nobility...is an idea... vision... hope.. dream... compassionate... dignity...unself-interestedness... largeness of spirit...decency...
For over two centuries, historiographers have sought to identify the national character and self-perception. You did it better than most Yanks today ever could.
Bob Evans, Anaheim, California
If Carter and Clinton both play well overseas, that tells us all we need to know about those who like to judge the US. McCain at least knows honor and duty--but all we really know about Obama is that he is a very liberal Democrat--think Ted Kennedy as president. Neither seems what the US needs.
Terry Walker, Ladson, SC / USA
It matters little whether McCain or Obama wins. Either is bound to look, and sound, good in comparison with the current President. Has there ever been a worse representative of an admirable people?
Malcolm Williamson, WGC, UK
To Americans; if you want world peace and respect, please do not vote McBush or McSame. (McCain)
jayil, london, uk
Anti-Americanism has roots since before the United States even existed. When we were still colonies we were looked down on by the European governments. The only times the people of the world have positive feelings for us is when they need our help militarily or financially. We're over it.
Marianne, Cincinnati, Ohio
He believes that Obama conveys an idea of nobility. To obtain the pro-Zionist vote he said that Jerusalem should be the 'indivisible capital of Israel' thus finding Israel's illegal annexation of east Jerusalem acceptable. So to get more votes he gives away more Palestinian land. This is noble?
William Garrett, Harrow,
America has been a poor friend and an arrogant neighbor. Much of the problem about America comes from within. I read a comment once from a French visitor who said that, "America is great because America is good. When America ceases to be good she will no longer be great. " America has lost it's way.
Matt, Jonesboro, USA
We Americans have one problem in that we only have men to choose from in our elections but then expect them to be like gods. We keep giving the government more power to 'solve problems' but then are surprised when that power is misused by men.
Roger, Seattle, USA
Each day the US refutes what the European haters say about America. I'm not the first to make such a comment. Washington Irving said so in a piece he wrote 180 years ago on European stereotypes of America and Americans. Seems little has changed in "old europe" during the past 200 years.
Vikram D'Souza, Memphis , USA
America proves that ordinary people will accomplish the extraordinary if free. Alas, that example is no guarantee against buffoonery and worse. But never mind; now that we know what ordinary people can do, let them do it in Russia, China, Brazil, Egypt, Zimbabwe, etc.
Brien OToole, Ellicott City, United States
"European goodwill towards America did nothing to stop terrorists using Europe as the launchpad for 9/11"
Glass houses & stones? Americans funded the IRA for decades via NORAID, presidents shaking the hands of Adams et al, hollywood glorifying IRA 'freedom fighters'? And now you want our support?
Anthony, Brum,
It's not noble to strive to appear to have integrity. It's noble to actually have integrity, regardless of what others think. If they happen to notice anyway, that's all well and good, but it's wrong to be concerned about the American "brand".
_Felix, Nottingham,
Mark, while I agree that there may be Americans with an arrogant and provincial view of the world, every nation has its share of citizens who have difficulty expanding their own world views. However, it is ignorant of you to compartmentalize all Americans under such a broad generalization.
Brad, Chicago,
"And in a world savagely rent by ethnic and racial antagonisms, it is all the more essential that the United States continue as an example of a how a highly differentiated society holds itself together".
- Arthur M. Schlesinger, Jr.
SD Goh, PJ, Malaysia
Goodness gracious!
American presidents are politicians, nothing more.
To expect them to embody our ideals to foreigners is a bizarre notion.
Do you think that Americans see the embodiment of Britain in Gordon Brown? I very much doubt it.
Andrew, Edina, Minnesota, U.S.A.
First, McCarthy was right about many things. Second, if we are going back that many decades, then you're longing for the US of the 1940s. Isn't that rather a long time ago?
Diane, NYC,
How is this article America-bashing? It is a paean to the spirit and ideals of the US. It praises America. The only things it attacks are the gangsters, torturers, warmongers, right-wing fanatics and neocons who have truly bashed America these last eight years.
Kate, Southampton, UK
On the Underground yesterday, two men boarded the car and began speaking about the election. The older one instructed the younger that Obama would "lose badly. Look at his name. Look at his face. He can't win." As an American, it breaks my heart that it comes so easily to think us so shallow.
T. Ewing, Tulsa, US
The whole concept of America is tired and tiresome.They have trampled on the cultures of too many countries to revive the golden age of when everything American was wholesome, fun and fresh. America has instilled its noxious brand all over the world from consumerist products to culture and politics.
slade wallis, Bensham, GREAT BRITAIN
For America to truly detoxify itself what it really needs is a proper criminal investigation of the 9/11 events. Everything else will be automatically sorted in its wake.
David, Cambridge, UK
Mr Parris,
I agree that both Obama and McCain represent a needed renewal of two vital strands of US politics. Obama the stirring orator, defining ideals, and McCain as a man of undoubted courage and belief in US manifest destiny. The balancing of these are what we admire in the US at its best.
David, Amsterdam, Netherlands
I believe it will take more than one good leader to save this sinking ship. I am very glad that it will not be another Clinton in office. Although I supported Bill Clinton and to a point Bush Sr. the idea of 28-32 consecutive years of the Bush-Clinton White House scared me.
Will, Anacortes, WA, god help the USA
in the phrase "and ask THEM who was the threat to world peace" it's the word "was" that's important. The Soviet Union was (past tense) the leading ogre of its time. Just as Matthew says, the US is in danger of becoming the ogre of this time. Take a walk in Iraq and ask THEM who today's threat is.
John Small, Faversham, UK
A great American President once told us about "The Better Angels of our Nature." The American failure is that too many of us have believed our own propaganda. May those "Better Angels" come again and lead us back to who we really are.
Carl, spartanburg, usa
The US should its bases out of Europe, abandon South Korea, cease all foreign aid, and leave the Middle East to fester (simply committing to destroy any country that touches Israel). Let Iraq fail, leave it to the EU to manage Iran. Forget the UN. After 5 years, we'd all be begging them for help.
Nick, Rotherham, UK
A really strong article, mirroring a lot of my own, even less expert, ideas.
America could be a shining light to the rest of the world, the beacon of a better future. I hope for the sake of the world that America bears the sniping of the rest of the world and continues, at least, to try.
George, London,
I agree 100% with this article, George Bush and his co-horts have turned this great nation into a periah, just to suit his own needs and unfortunately he has dragged other nations down with him. Hopefully this fall the American people can fianally wake up and make the right choice.
Chassidy, Shenandoah, USA
Yeah, and the right man is John McCain, lest you forget it.
And Bill of Suzhou, let the man who is without sin etc...
elizabeth schumann, Paris, France
Sad to see the response of many Americans here.
It's the "we are righteous and the saviours of the world" attitude that really puts people off from having sort of meaningful argument with you.
And if the Europeans are not worth listening to , why are you reading their newspapers?
Tom, Madrid, Spain
Yesterday was the anniversary of D-Day. Four days ago, American ships moved away from the Burmese coast after weeks of being denied permission to help. Today, the papers around the world are full of America-bashing articles. We are still noble here in the U.S.A.
margaretmary, saratoga springs ny, usa
The legend of American nobility is daily undermined by the ignorance and arrogance of the Americans abroad. They do not observe or understand foreign cultures, they shout you down, they produce as 'new' observations, things that Europeans and Chinese knew centuries before America was born. YUCK!
Bill, Suzhou, China
To Joel, from Atlanta:
The national debate would be helped if more Americans had a longer attention span, and had a better understanding of the issues rather than settling on the rhetoric of superiority and bloviating of patriotism.
The truth of what we are is more subtle and complex than that.
Eilidh, NY & Bucks,
As a Yank, I would have liked to vote for the first woman President. However, the race turned into a press love affair with Obama and a media driven "Stop Hillary" campaign, rather than a primary. I think McCain will win in November.
Gilbert Reed, Normal, IL, USA
When Britain was top dog, we didn't expect to be loved. Being hated went with the territory. Respected, sure. All part of being the colonial power. So forget trying to be best buddies with the people whose lands you occupy. They'll hate you, forcing you to fall back on old-fashioned brutality.
Andrew Milner, Yokohama, Japan
The ugly reaction to this article from several US-based readers underlines why the US needs change. The xenophobia, the casual genocidal thuggery, the facile pretence to virtue and victimhood, the infantile far right extremism - they must all be swept away if America is to be 'noble' again.
Kate, Southampton, UK
Senetor Mac Cain,
Is the same old face of american arrogance and agression. A stalwart support of a war that almost all the most eminent international lawyers and the UN Secretary General Kofi Annan said was an illel war that is destabilising the worl.
Fesseha
fesseha, London,
US governments, citizens & institutions have done much harm. Nevertheless, they have also done much good & the good outweighs the bad by a quite overwhelming margin. Imagine, if you can, the 20th century without US input. Beware the day they cease to contribute, a new dark age dawns.
Mike Wilkes, Brisbane, Australia
Matt , Surrey, UK
As an American living in the US who travels outside the US several times a year ....
It is not that we are stupid not to recognize the loss. It is that we simply don't care!!!!
Have you been in Europe so long that you also believe their myth of the stupid American?
Nikki, Cary, US
The question is misplaced. It is not how to "detoxify America" it is how to detoxify the world. America in not perfect and has its warts, but can you name any nation that has fewer warts? Europeans love to peer through the looking glass, not at the looking glass.
cypher, Galena, OH , USA
Arrogance? Hubris? Nobility? Blah blah blah. Oh, to be able to cold-bloodedly pursue our interests like Russia or China. To cluck our tongues on the sidelines like Europe. Frankly, we're getting sick of having to be an "idea" instead of a country. Get a life and stop obsessing about us.
Christopher, New Jersey, USA
It is with this nobilty that the signers of the American Declaration of Independence laid their signatures to the document:
we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.
This sacred honor must be restored, it is the nobility that has been lost by GW Bush & Co.
JP Murphy, Lake Orion, Micigan, USA
I believe that America is several countries. From the Amish to the arbitrageur it is a collection of people being what they want to be, as opposed to Britain being a reincarnation of the ruling elite. You need a strong Constitution to live in the States while Britain slowly defaces Magna Carta.
Malcolm Turner, Alsager, England
"Nobility" Mr Parris, is in the eye of the beholder. President Reagan was scorned in Europe as a warmonger (remember "focus of evil in the modern world" and the SS20's) One day, Bush will be seen similarly; ready to fight for the ideals for which the West stands (post-modern EU excepted, it seems).
Jon, Sydney, AU
Like William in Atlanta, USA, I, too, am tired.
I'm tired of America and British newspapers obsessing about the flaming place.
There are infinitely more interesting places in the world, places for whom culture and subtlety are not oxymoronic concepts.
Duncan, London, Engand
does "nobility" or "liked by the world" bring down the price of gas? put food on the table? pay the mortgage? keep us safe?
European goodwill towards America did nothing to stop terrorists using Europe as the launchpad for 9/11
so, what is it good for ... absolutely nothing !!!
David Bower, new york, usa
Nobility and moral stature are, of course, worthy. However, for the land of the free and the home of the brave, how about freedom and bravery. Where is the freedom in America's legal system, or lack of it, for many citizens and detainees? Where was the bravery in "shock and awe", and what freedom
Bill Peter, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The British fall for American hype all the time. In 8 years time (who ever is elected will probably be re-elected) America will look just the same (in terms of foreign policy) as it does today. It's the electorate, stupid.
If anyone will bomb Iran it will be Obama, McCain has nothing to prove.
Eddie Reader, birmingham, england
The defensive comments here suggest a raw nerve. Thought-provoking article.
Laura, Nottingham, UK
For the land of the free and the home of the brave, how about freedom and bravery? Where is freedom in the US legal system, or lack of it, for many citizens and detainees? Where was the bravery in "shock and awe", and what freedom did it bring apart for Halliburton and others to make money?
Bill Peter, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The Last great act of American Nobility were those heroic selfless charges of extroadinarily brave men onto the beaches of Normandy. Driving the Germans out of France then on to Berlin. The US helped save Europe in a high minded act of common moral purpose. That is what I remember America for.
Boris, Belgravia, London
Nobility is inherent in Americans' remaining true to their independence of mind and heart, body and spirit - a priceless gift of self-autonomy in the determination of personal fate bestowed by their own or their forebears' determination to break free of the ignobilities of their home countries.
Cybella, Porter Ranch, USA
Americans are far from perfect. You see it in our public debates every day. People aren't being held here involuntarily. When China takes our place on the world stage you will look back nostalgically on our previous world position.
Lazlo Toth, New York,
As a dual citizen (British-American) my wish is to see Obama win and claw back some respect from the world. Under Bush, the USA has set some dangerous precedents. Namely imprisoning people without legal representation and Bush's admission that torture has its place. Insane.
Michael Marian, Gibraltar, Gibraltar
I fear it will take a generation to detoxify this brand. Bush and his administration have done too much damage.
Nick, St Ouen, France
We were noble until we got mixed up in European affairs, from WW 1, 2, Korea, French Colonial Indo-china, Lebonon, Iraq 1 and 2 and the list goes on. Many of the problems originated with Europws colonial past anyway, yet through the UN, we are supposed to help clean it up. Then we get blamed.
William, Atlanta, USA
More Scots want an end to the Political Union as Britain does not equal England. So thank you for Bush, without him Blair would not have made such a mess and left Brown in a deep hole looking at the abyss of Scottish Independence. Will Obama or McCain support freedom for Scotland or see us a colony?
Peter Thomson, Kirkcudbright, Scotland
You have identified 10 factors responsible for the damage to the American 'legend of nobility'. The honest answer is America's unrelenting selfishness bolstered by arrogance and force. Only this has become transparent in the past 8 years because the President lacked the subtlety of his predecessors.
LAKSHMAN PARDHANANI, GOA, India
Seems to me, that many non Americans, profess to know and understand America. They "know" small and large transgressions committed. We should do this, that and whatever. To be "noble" is not our desire. To be free, safe, and prosperous at the same time being generous. What if there was no America ?
john walls, Lancaster, U.S.A. CALIFORNIA
Much too late, Matthew. The USA has always been the home of noble ideals and speeches, true. But is has also been the home of a host of go-getters, gold-diggers, and self-made men. This has led to the perception of hypocrisy, as the contrast between ideals and practical self-enrichment gapes.
Tom Welsh, Basingstoke,
No, not Noble . Was the bombing of Vietnam noble, the invasion of Cambodia, arms to Iran, the Bay of Pigs.? Powerful and organised, yes. America acts in what it perceives to be its self interest. It is the definition of that interest which varies, and is often competely perverse.
Clerkenwellman, London, UK
When America is popular, friendly countries are will to assist us in any way that meets their own goals and interests. When we aren't, they aren't willing to assist us unless it meets their own goals and interests.
David P. Summers, Menlo Park, CA, USA
If loosing an overseas popularity contest is the price that must be paid to prevent having to dig through mountains of ruble again for the remains of our murdered citizens... To use the British vernacular, swings and roundabouts. We, being slightly less clever, just say, "Oh well."
R Thomas, Texas, USA
The strange thing about America, as I can say as a non-American who lived and worked in the USA for about 5 years, is that Americans are often extremely arrogant without ever seeming to realise just how arrogant they actually are. There is a kind of provincialism in their view of the world.
Mark, Johannesburg, South Africa
It has been a source of great embarassment to be an American during the Bush years. The lawless Bush Presidency has affected not only the US - but indirectly but the hopes of democrats in totalitarian countries who have seen model of American rule of law vanish - a disaster - a tragedy.
Constance Blackwell, Lonon, uk
I think the rest of the world will heave a sigh of relief that neither a Bush nor a Clinton will be the next President. I hope Obama has the strength to resist the pressure to offer Hillary the Vice Presidency. She, and her husband, made too many personal attacks on him during the primaries.
Donna Walker, Effingham, England
As an American abroad, two things are clear: (1) the "American Brand" has been tarnished, perhaps irreparably, by the Bush administration and (2) the majority of Americans don't recognize that loss. We need to get back on track - not just for our place in the world, but for the American people.
Matt , Surrey, UK
Mr. Parris, I must contest your claims to ignorance and exclusion. It is a relief in these most parlous times to read commentary that has some sympathy for my profoundly challenged nation. Our current leadership is the most incompetent in my lifetime. I share your hope that we will find better.
Bitter Klingman, Atlanta, USA
As an American voter having seen many elections, except for JFK, this one is very important. Either McCain or Obama seem to have the potential for a really fine president. The "idea" of America has taken a turn in a direction I find sad. Pray for us.
Patsy, Takoma Park, MD, USA
Dear Sweet Cyril, Any time you think that the US has been the biggest threat to world peace, take a walk in Eastern Europe, you know,"The Sweet Former Communist States", and ask THEM who was the threat to world peace, The fact you can say such drivel, means that you are not under the Soviet heel.
jim, framingham, USA
Its funny. We grew up being told to do whats right rather than do what the popular kids told us to do. Yet here we are, with the Europeans bleating that the US is unpopular.
Get over it guys. The world will be worse off it the US tried to be popular to everyone. Leaders don't behave that way.
Bill Dow, Atlanta, US
Eilidh,
We in America are tempted to dismiss this as empty propaganda, but throughout the world, as I have seen, this perception of America rings true. Your reaction reflects a disappointingly provincial point of view and your cynicism, while understandable, does nothing to help our national debate.
Joel, Atlanta, Georgia
Rhetoric will not save America. The economy is teetering on the brink now and soon the bill will be presented for decades of bad decisions; most which can not now be reversed because of entrenched political interests. Pity the next president- and his party whoever they may be.
ChrisMarks, Boca Raton, USA
As a U.S citizen, I get up every day shaking my head at how my country has been hijacked by the worst thugs and criminals, and how my fellow citizens tolerate it. This is not the America I love, the America I was taught to believe in, and still yearn with all my heart and soul to believe in.
bcamarda, Ramsey, USA
America is a noble idea. In reality it has never been any more noble or ignoble than any other influential nation. Self-interest precludes that. And the idea may be fading as the world and America's place in it change. Perhaps a new, more accurate perception of us will necessary and best for all.
Malbork, Truth or Consequences, NM, U$A
The English,including the author of this article,would be well advised to worry about their own affairs instead of criticizing America! Britain is in NO position to be judging ANYONE,much less the U.S.! Your "enlightened" society is falling apart all around you as you bow to your E.U. masters!
shenson, Raleigh, NC, USA
Matthew, you have a highly rose-tinted view of Kennedy. He had a pretty face and a glib tongue, just like other more recent politicians. We will never know whether he would have done for America what Blair has done for the UK - sucked it dry and left it on its knees.
Rosemary, Germany,
Your opinion is good in its own way. However, the Soviet Union has not always been World Enemy No. 1. Europeans and others made it clear that they preferred the Soviets to us several times over. So we are used to being the evil people in other countries.
Greg, New Orleans, US
America has for decades and decades been the biggest threat to world peace.
cyril mitchell, dumfries, scotland
Beautiful article, and I could not agree more. Where we part company is this: I think the collective administration of George W. Bush has done more damage to the United States domestically and abroad than any administration in our history. It will take decades to overcome. Go Obama!!!!
Roy, Santa Monica, U.S.A.
I would rather believe in TinkerBell than man-made global warming. The notion that 1 particle in 100 thousand of the atmosphere controls the temperature of the the rest is a belief in magic fairy dust - not science.
George W Bush is Abraham Lincoln to the world.
Brad Jensen, Tulsa, OK, USA
The American brand is not noble you say.
I too was an Englishman - who became an American by happy choice 30 years ago.
Compared to what brand? Europe? The Arab states? The United Nations? China? Compared to these regimes, we still have nobility a plenty.
Bob Bartlett, San Rafael, USA
Instinctively, for I was 15 when JFK died, I compared Obama to JFK but more and more I think of Woodrow Wilson as a more appropriate comparison. McCain certainly has a Reaganish quality. Two outstanding candidates for the real thing now. Your optimism is both positive and, hopefully, justified.
fred keeling, almunecar, spain
Harold Nicolson commented on the American obsession to "be liked". That was in the 40's and it seems just as true today. Americans should realize they were never universally liked (who is?) and trying to get people to like us by electing a socialist is futile.
JL Ronish, seattle, usa
What honor should we seek from the world. The world censors itself too please freedom hating religions and ideologies. Even going as far as banning books and punishing speech, is that honor. The world thats presently letting Robert Mugabe starve his people,is it that honor
Mike, Seminole, Florida
If any other nation wants to tarnish their reputation, Bush will be in need of a job come January.
Jeff, Sacramento / CA, USA
I couldn't agree more with the sentiments expressed here. While travelling to work this morning I was thinking about America in precisely this context; you know, as a concept - and an admirable one at that. In an ideal world it would be embodied by the character of its President.
Robert Laundon, London, UK
I can say as an American we honestly DO care for the world. Too much and that leads us to ruin. Gulf War 1, my war, was wasted after another UN scandle. We are just tired. Tired of caring, tired of opinions, tired of the Change that has already happened in our country in the past 15 years.
William, Atlanta, USA
Yes, the idea of American nobility is severely tarnished and is not helped one iota when we see and hear all the candidates scraping and grovelling to to big monied AIPAC fat cats (American Israel Public Affairs Committee) promising to pay homage to Israel whatever its many sins.
Josh Browne, Brooklyn, USA
Obama is the hope of America regaining it's reputation in the world.
McCain was a POW. He is a cranky old man and would be a disaster for the US.
I was 18 when JFK was killed and for the first time in my adult life, I am really proud to be an American White Woman.
Marsha, Tigard Oregon, USA
As an American married to a European (though we live in the US), I have personal contact with both inside and outside views of the US. I wholeheartedly agree that America is close to losing it's "noble" reputation, and hope that it's still possible to repair the damage done in recent years.
Lisa, Portland, OR, USA
The ideas of America are alive and well though I think this is often missed by those across the pond. America is not about personalities; It is about a belief in liberty and freedom. The US has many problems, but a lack of foreigners wanting to come and pursue the dream here is not one of them.
Dave, Atlanta,
I am American, and you are so very out-of-touch. What you call nobility we call empty words. Do you really believe election rhetoric? It's business as usual.
Eilidh, NY & Bucks,