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I stand by my earlier comment that there is ignorance around the world. Why should we be surprised to encounter it.
I agree with matthew that there is no real reason for an American living in the middle of the US to learn another language. Sure it would be nice if they did, but honestly, why bother?
What troubles me in general about international relations is just how little we all know and/or learn about each other. Most people base their understanding of the Other on some tried and tired stereotypes (the arrogant American, the stinky French, the uptight Briton, the hoser Canadian, etc.).
In the US this can be exacerbated by a rather myopic culture. Not a heck of a lot of foreign films, television programs, etc. reach the masses. Interestingly the reverse is true in other nations but foreign culture is largely American culture.
As an American, it is important to realize that, generally speaking, the most intimate connections that foreigners have with the US is through its cultural exports. And that runs that gamut from Baywatch and Buffy to CNN and Fox News.
Of course not all American are arrogant. But one does have to realize that perceptions are not created in a vacuum.
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"My hands are on fire. Hands are on fire. Ain't got no more time for all you charlatans and liars."
- Old Man Luedecke
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