Global Business Perspectives

Americans often view the world through their own very ethnocentric lens. We sometimes forgot how the rest of the world views us and our government. The article “Europe’s youth takes complex view of the US” in the Christian Monitor from August 13, 2007, sheds light on some perceptions of the United States. Over the last 6 years, the views of the United States by other countries have been on a roller coaster. Right after 9/11 there was such sympathy and kind thoughts for us. Then in 2003, we entered into the Iraq war, many people around the world were angry and protested their own governments not to get involved.

Since then there has been much disdain for “Americans.” Recently however, the views are shifting. Young adults in Europe see the American people and our government as separate. They still have strong negative feeling towards our foreign policy, especially, our position in the Iraq War but they also love our creativity, our TV/movies and our music.

I am not sure, I like that my country is now having positive global contributions in only the soft power arena.  I love that our creative spirit is well received but I worry that certain privilages that we have as Americans by being a world power will slowly slip through our hands before we even see it coming. 

I think the upcoming 2008 elections will be a turning point for our country.  I am sure all eyes will be on us and how we are viewed by the rest of the world in regards to our government and White House policies. Take care in your vote and above all please take part in the election process!