Americans respect their Government so much that democracy can not work there. Contempt and cynicism is necessary to chellenge the Government. Americans' mentality is such that any dictator would love this nation because he can do whatever he wants, and people are happy to enjoy their freedom of speach, which is meaningless in America. Speach does not have any impact on Americans closed minds.
2006-08-29 06:19:41 · 23 answers · asked by Dr MK Khaishagi 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Politics
You seem to fall into the same trap that so many others do. The first question (Why do Americans respect their government so much) could really lead to some interesting answers. But then, instead of giving a good follow-up, you simply denigrate the country and its leaders.
What kind of response do you expect to get, except some shots back at you and some defensive answers defending our country.
There are some very good aspects about the USA and its government. It also has problems, and Americans have very different views about those problems. But you seem to believe that all Americans think the same way, act the same way, and believe the same things.
America may be more divided than ever on their opinions. The presidential candidates each received virtually the same (percentage) of votes, but democrats rarely agree with republicans -- especially at election time.
Yet, you think we all think the same way?!?
It is, to some extent, true that because America is more polarized than ever, people are less willing to talk and listen to other viewpoints.
But doesn't that show that theere IS cynacism?
I would disagree that you need to have contempt for a government (or leader) to question his motives, or whether he is being a good and effective leader. Perhaps this is best seen in Ronald Reagan, who was a personable, nice person, with whom many Americans held very different political views. Does that mean that he was held in contempt? Must you hold those with whom you disagree in contempt? If so, then you are right, freedom of speech would mean nothing, for if you hold someone contempt, you are not likely to listen to them, nor them to you.
2006-08-29 06:30:57 · answer #1 · answered by robert_dod 6 · 3⤊ 0⤋
I respect our government greatly--not always those currently in power, the system in general. I know of no better one out there.
Freedom of speech is not meaningless here. How can you say that? Could a Michael Moore run around and put out the stuff he has against the current government in most nations of the world and get away with it? No. I don't agree with him at all, but I love that fact that he can do it. And if you don't think it has any impact, check out the opinion polls.
The best part of this government: Every 4 or 8 years, there is a new president. every 2 years, a new congress. Never has there been a revolt of any sort over a transition of power between parties. This is an incredible trust in our system. I firmly believe that if some dictator did try to come in and mess with the system, he would have a massive fury to deal with.
Some people might say that it's the Conservatives' mindset which would allow what you suggested to take place, but I'd argue that conservatives are more highly devoted to the American ideals of the constitution than any individual who has ever been in leadership. They'd take up arms first. I don't think there'd be a problem getting Liberals riled up if a dictatorship was attempted.
Exactly which part of my mind is closed? Why is it that you are automatically the one who is right, and therefore I must be simply close-minded? Isn't such a blanket statement the very definition of close-mindedness?
2006-08-29 13:38:02 · answer #2 · answered by SpisterMooner 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I am an American. Your question is far too multi-faceted to answer on one level. I respect the theory of democracy. But I don't agree with the way that it is applied in America. But there isn't a cut and dry answer to how a nation can be governed. Philosophically, most who come into power tend to abuse it to certain degrees. Even if power is distributed between numerous leaders there is always an occasion where someone will use their power selfishly and advantageously. So the question is what goverment body can mediate power to the people without having power of their own? And a cynical as it sounds, how can you prevent exploitation without monitoring individual behavior? The only conclusion I have came to is to always choose the lesser evil for the greater good. Which is basically the only thing you can do in most situations.
2006-08-29 13:41:27 · answer #3 · answered by §чﺀﺀчβчﻯ†a 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You must be new to Yahoo answers, their is a LOT of contempt & cynicism from people on this site. Don't categorize all Americans as being the same. There are a lot of open minded people here and the last time I looked no one is being locked up for saying what they believe.
2006-08-29 13:34:58 · answer #4 · answered by carpediem 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
We respect or should respect our government as WE the PEOPLE decide who's going to be in that government. Do you have the same opportunity in your country? If not- you'll never understand what true freedom is. It's not just freedom of speech. It's freedom of religion. The freedom to move across the country without being hassled. I respect the government NOT because I am a blind follower but because I participate in it by voting.
Have a great day!!!
2006-08-29 13:34:00 · answer #5 · answered by Coo coo achoo 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Our American Government , is the People. We the People. In all Governments , you are gonna find Contempt and Cynicism. So what is new in the world ? The people are allowing these leaders to do as they want, because the majority voted them in. So how do we complain and change what has already been approved ??? You are accurate in your last sentence. The minds are becoming more closed as the situation becomes more complex. We depend on a good leader. All the people of this Great Nation, depends on a dependable Leader.
2006-08-29 13:27:01 · answer #6 · answered by Norskeyenta 6 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Personally, I don't respect my government's administration. But I guess I have lingering belief that we CAN get a good president and we CAN turn this country around. This country, you must admit, CAN become an AMAZINGLY GREAT COUNTRY. It's possible. But a lot of people in this country either don't care or are, like you said, closed minded.
By the way, telling Americans how we all think... is closed minded.
You're a bit of a hypocrite, my friend.
2006-08-29 13:28:02 · answer #7 · answered by ? 5 · 3⤊ 0⤋
My country tis a thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing.
Land where my father's died, land of the pilgrim's pride
From every mountainside - let freedom ring.
My country, right or wrong.
Zionists manipulated patriotism before and after 9/11 to allow Americans to respect America regardless of all the wrong that America was doing all over the world.
2006-08-29 13:37:08 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
There is plenty of cynicism in the U.S. No dictator could do "whatever he wants". If the people do not like an elected official, he or she will be voted out of office.
There is more than one issue that decides who is the US president. People who voted for the current president could have one of the following reasons:
1.They agree with his foreign policies
2.They agree with him on other issues.
3.They didn't like his opponent
There are probably other reasons as well.
As important as foreign policies are, there ARE other issues that might have a greater impact on the day-to-day life of Americans.
2006-08-29 13:27:31 · answer #9 · answered by mollyneville 5 · 1⤊ 1⤋
The respect for authority, law and order. That is what people do in a civilized society. Maybe ! that is why America is one of the best place on planet earth to live
2006-08-29 13:27:37 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋