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Originally Posted by highthief
I have not stated my views, so I'm not sure how you can accertain how the views of immigrants (like my parents, like my wife's entire family, etc) will or will not match my own. Your argument has this very basic, fatal flaw in it.
Meanwhile, millions upon millions emigrate to other western nations. Canada has a higher rate (as a percentage of population) than the US, for example. With 300 million people, the US certainly has the capacity to absorb large numbers of immigrants.
Does the US have a role to play in the world? Yes. An important role? Yes. But not the super-hero, godlike role you ascribe to it. And to be frank, it is people such as yourself who sound off so vociferously about the US being better than everyone else put together that has, more than anything, turned a lot of opinion against the US around the world. It's one thing to have pride in your nation, it is another to put everyone else (including your allies) around you down to try and make yourself look bigger.
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The U.S. has no need to make itself look "bigger." No need at all. You ascribe to my words a meaning that is not there.
"...it is people such as yourself..."
You are the only one here who has dared call the United States "godlike." In debate it is the opponent who makes things personal who has lost. C.S. Lewis described this tactic as "Bulverism," after a professor who, being unable to defend his weak position, attacked the motive or personality of his adversary.
It is quite alright to point out the perceived failings of the United States; suggestions that it is backwards and/or the cause of all conflict in the world is the coin of the realm. There is no quicker way to get yourself deemed a genius than to point out a U.S. failure. Much of the world press doesn't hesitate to lay the blame for almost anything at Uncle Sam's door. Fair enough. I wouldn't change that if I could. It clarifies things. It's good to know what folks are thinking. On the other hand, let one person stand up and defend the "Great Satan" America and suddenly they are jingoistic, imperialist, Nationalistic, and...OOOOOOH, How dare you defend yourself! Why should it be acceptable to condemn the United States but not to defend her?