American culture

I'm not going to sit back and wistfully ponder the greatness or downsides of America. That would just be a waste of time. Read and find your own opinions.

Andrew Sullivan is the most eloquent on a common theme: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Makes you want to stand and wave an American flag.

Not all of Susan Lanfestey's arguments make sense, but I like her imagery of Walmart as a mirage and the selection of radio stations in northern Wisconsin to be right for the entire demographic or passing traveler.

Recent conversations of late have made me think about how American I am. Yes, it is debatable as to what is a true American. That is not a debate that I would want to enter. Too personal or else will wind up sounding like a spoiled brat. Thomas Sowell claims a petty difference between the Honda and Lexus. Maybe so, but reading his view on environmentalism, you can understand that he will drive the Lexus sports car and burn the gasoline with no second thought. MSN and Forbes.com recently posted an article on what "the good life" costs. Forget political philosophers. Somehow, I have this picture of Suburbia again in my mind.

After listening to Europeans talk about why the United States is so puzzling conservative, it is interesting that Tony Blair wants to raise discussion about the European social model. Anyone who's been abroad can tell you that each country has its own philosophy. Each has its own lifestyle and reason to work, as the upcoming book "European Dreams" appears to analyze. Working to live or living to work. Or the thought of idealists: living to work in order to have a better life.

NB: If you are interested in work philosophies between the United States, start by thinking about France's 35 hour work week. NYT Magazine just had an article featuring this topic. Must love savings and investment in productivity and human capitol. Will money or time make people happy? Oh Working Time Directive!

Bringing this post back full circle, Darrin McMahon talks about "the pursuit of happiness" and the relationship between the public and private good. Back to Locke and political philosophy.

On a more personal note, I did see fireworks under the St. Louis Arch on July 3 and July 4. Will remember the booming, cannon-sounding fireworks, running to catch the Metro, and knowing the words to almost every patriotic song played. Was also starting to compare the extreme haste and extreme assertiveness of others on the train as the hurried feeling trying to leave King of Kings' parking lot. For some people, fireworks signal the end of patriotism and good-will to others. Welcome back to (one side of) American culture.