American Made—Between Civilization and Reality

Author: (French) Solomon
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-01-01
Features: In Europe, nations were created by states. In America, society is built on autonomy; resident groups are left to organize themselves without external interference, rather than waiting for higher authorities to do so. Any resistance to the American way is futile, and this very approach shapes our own lives. It should be noted that our tomorrow will become more Americanized, rather than clinging to yesterday.
Chapter 3
All American churches are businesses, and every pastor is an entrepreneur, concerned with the growth of their venture. Successful pastors aspire to create a "super-church," a religious empire with branches across the nation, and if possible, promote their sermons on a television channel.
Chapter 4
The American state is not a master ruling over its citizens but a subject being watched by the bureaucracy. All public officials are suspect; once they clearly deviate from the will of the electorate, they are accused of abuse of power, and their careers are ruined. Today, if one were to criticize America, it would not be the eternal issue of racism, but rather the possibility of class division emerging in American society.
Chapter 5
California is the state of whites, the state of English speakers, with incomes that allow for a comfortable life; it lives by the sea. The second California, the state of minorities, has far less education, is confined to primary industries, is poor, and often resides inland rather than by the coast.
Chapter 7
This book does not demand that readers accept the author's stance on specific issues; it is offered to provide an understanding of the matter. Strangely, America is impacting our daily lives, yet while we are well-versed in its foreign policy, how much do we truly know about its internal society? Overall, our understanding is minimal, for knowing a nation takes time. This book is the result of four decades of close contact with America. I hope it makes a modest contribution to a deeper understanding of this unique society. Such a civilization is so distinct that it cannot, and should not, be equated with European civilization; Americans have long ceased to be Europeans. After reading this book, you may choose to love America or not. I only wish that everyone's choice is a rational one, a wise one—and no more.
It should be noted that the views expressed in this book are solely the author's. We offer this material to scholars and experts studying international politics, hoping it will contribute to further research and academic prosperity. If it benefits societal development, that would be even more reason to celebrate.