Changing the hearts of dislike and hatred through communication and education is of utmost importance
Over the past few years, it has been more and more apparent to me that there is a significant rise in anti-American sentiments. I am not referring just about politics, but an overall attitude of dislike of the American people. I see it largely in young adults. The reason for this is a total misconception of Americans as projected through the media and entertainment industries as well as the current political environment.
Young people in Europe think that Americans are overindulgent, fake, too religious, and greedy. While this may be true of a very small minority, most American people are decent, hard working, loving men and women. I met thousands of people since the beginning of my trip and no one, yes no one had a bad or negative feeling or though about French people or France. They want exactly the same things for their children as the mothers and fathers anywhere; a safe, healthy, nurturing and innocent environment. I was amazed to find out just how similar European and American lifestyles are!
Great lengths need to be taken to overcome the misunderstandings and ignorance that have lead to the dislike and sometimes hatred of the American people. I believe if this is not addressed in a grass roots way through people to people exchanges and media outlets, that these sentiments will continue to grow and will cause great damage to American relationships.
The Pew research institute, a non profit polling organization in Washington, DC has confirmed, as referenced in the book, “America Against the World”, that statistically what I am saying is true. As history has proven, the hearts of man determine the fate of nations. I believe that changing the hearts of dislike and hatred through communication and education is of utmost importance.
1 comment:
I think that what is missing in the world today is sensibility. It's the rare ability to put ourselves in the shoes of our world wild fellows, and feel their pain. Understanding other cultures is the first step to reduce the distance between countries. I'm glad that someone has this sensibility and act toward an understanding. And JP is doing this in a wonderful way that almost any American can experiment. For that reason I strongly encourage everybody I know to do Home Exchange, and always use JP's example to show how this idea can be successful.
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