would disagree that we are the only free space in the world. i
Please point out were I say that we are the only free space. Do not put words in my mouth or twist my meaning please.
america suffers from narcissism.
Yes we do. I work overseas for most of the year. This is our biggest problem. We think everyone is an American waiting to come out. Always has been and always will be an American trait. Recognize it and avoid it when overseas. I fail to see your point on this other than to suggest America needs a humbling and should be defeated in Iraq??!?
my concern in the post 9/11 world is that much like the soviets, we have begun to suspect our own people of dissent.
False. I think you should educate yourself on the recent laws that have been passed. Most specifically the Patriot act.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USA_PATRIOT_ActYou will see for the most part, worries about infringement on personal freedom are unwarranted. Nevertheless the US legal system is dealing with the new laws and amending them as needed to preserve that personal freedom.
Nash,
Most of the Western world has pretty much he same choices and freedoms today, more or less, Hence the Western Europe. Your perception of "chest pounding" is undeserved.
Even though the United States has many problems, I would say you have never traveled outside of the US or Western Europe if you do not recognize we are head and shoulders above most of the countries on this planet when it comes to personal freedoms.
Now if you are taking the fact I specifically did not mention Canada as a personal affront, my apologies.
Crumpp