I said this in my post a couple of times, but I'll say it again: rockogre, I did not mean my post to be personal to you. I know you had good intentions behind it, and I'd like the idea of applying what you said to the rest of the world, if it were possible. I guess I'm a cynic, eh?
As a critical American, knowing very well what other countries think of us (and the truth of our less-publicized actions), I just can't stand by most of what that author wrote. Not all Americans feel so patriotic, though yes, we are grateful to be able to express that opinion. Being grateful does not mean surrendering the ability to think critically about a situation.
I will say that I am not sure what you meant by "civilized;" I understood that you meant some nations are uncivilized, as opposed to the West? I guess I find "civilized" to be a loaded word, since it is pretty relative.
EDIT: Okay, just read your last post, since you beat me to it. I'm glad you're not too upset.
