Do people from other countries judged the United Kingdom by the policies of its Government alone?

Question

I live in the UK and think as a Nation we are exceptional in our outlook and empathy with other countries. I worry that people from other countries judge us by the methods of our Government. Although they are democratically voted in there is not much to put between any of the poitical parties. But I have always thought the majority of citizens of the United Kingdom are basically good people, who often go above and beyond what is expected to help out people in countries, in times of need and distress. I think we have always done this and that makes me very proud to be a citizen of the United Kingdom despite the sometimes miss-guided efforts of our Government.

Answer 1

My wife and I love travelling to the UK and plan to do much more. We enjoy talking to the 'locals.' In fact, we are swaping homes with our friends in Bristol next year, and really look forward to it.

I think the people are very...well...gentile. In some respects, they are too kind in a way that it is hard to know what they really think.

On the other hand, we also met some that were quite rude. Others we met were simply curious. Not mich different from any other country.

I think its natural - and expected - for citizens of any country to be thankful and proud of their home, their government, and their people. The same it true for us. That is what makes it all so very interesting to visit. The fact that there is mutual respect makes it fun, too.

I really am ignorant of the major policies of the British Government. I know that we are allies; I know we differ on certain issues; but, that is to be expected. I think, however, your too harsh concerning the opinions of your own government.

All in all, we are all people. I enjoy exploring the traditions, cultures, and landscapes of other places -- especially the UK.

If you only drove on the right side of the road... just kidding!

Answer 2

My word! we would be in a mess if that were true. More often than not the policies of the Government have no bearing whatsoever on the opinions of the general public. I mean even if you only consider the "massive debt" that we are in according to the Government, what possible sense does it make to keep on borrowing money to stay afloat when at the same time as borrowing, they are dishing out money like it's going out of fashion. From the ground level as a working class person I can see that every day shops are being boarded up because the tenants or owners are going bankrupt. Hospitals are closing down, old peoples homes, the same. Whatever happened to the old saying that charity starts at home? Of course we should help others in desperate need, but where will this all end? I think that it's time to make our position clear to the rest of the world.... If our old people are dying of hyperthermia in the winter because they cant afford to keep warm, shouldn't that take the utmost priority when deciding where money gets spent?
I wouldn't be at all surprised if the rest of the world think that we are a load of MUPPETS!!, we stand the 5 card trick!! Enough is enough.

Answer 3

I lived in the UK for a couple of years for business. Your country is nice, but in some aspects isn't very nice. But that's the way EVERY country is. I'm back in the U.S. now and I am glad to be home, although I do miss some things about the UK. In so many ways the United States and the United Kingdom are alot alike, I think thats why I love the UK so much, it's a home away from home. God Bless The US and The UK! FOREVER ALLIES!

Answer 4

No. The policies of your government are none of our business, although I will say Tony Blair has a lot of courage to take his stand on Iraq. I was in England for a few days approx. 25 years ago, and met some wonderful people. Also, Central London is a very special place. I expect the U.S.and the U.K to always be good friends.

THe only thing you do wrong is you drive on the wrong side of the road. I wouldn't trust myself pushing a wheelbarrow over there.

Answer 5

It is absolutely true that UK citizens are very kind and understanding. However citizens of other countries dont come in direct contact with UK citizens. It is usually the decisions taken by the politicians in terms of foreign/economic policy which is visible and also has a direct influence on lot of other country's citizen.

Its sad but frank statement that UK citizens are most often then not judged by their government.

Answer 6

No, not at all. I lived in Cambridge for 9 months and found the place to great. The people were much more down to earth, friendly, less uptight, better educated, and new how to enjoy themselves. A can do attitude that Americans have lost. Now back in the US I miss the UK and am less tolerant of arrogant, selfish, Americans.

Answer 7

I do not support UK on its stance on the so called war on terrorism. I think its a case of associating with the wrong friends. - THAT BEING SAID, the UK has some of the best policies in place. The current strategy to Public Sector Reform is millions of miles ahead of most countries.

Answer 8

Yes, the Yanks think we are great because Teflon Tony has thrown our army into Iraq. The French do not like us because we still get some of the rebate that Maggie Thatcher forced from the EU.

Answer 9

If people think the country is like those in Government no wonder we're in trouble. We are better than any damn politician because we care about more than what we can get out of it.

Answer 10

people and government are two related but seperate entities. The British has a great culture and civilization.