One thing that gets people from all over the globe talking is American values. We’re a giant melting pot of ideas & practices that some people admire yet other people hate. But why do they stir up so much conversation? It’s all about perspective. Here are 11 American values that are rather divisive in other countries.
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Individualism
We Americans really dig the idea of being our own boss & making our own decisions. We’re obsessed with “me, myself, and I!” Usually, this go-get-’em attitude involves pushing for personal success & freedom. However, not everyone’s on board with this because many places value community and family instead. This American love for flying solo seems a little cold. In their eyes, it’s far better to work in favor of the collective over the individual.
Freedom of Speech
Talking about anything (and everything) is a big deal in the States because even though we might not agree with everything someone else is saying, we’ll defend their right to say it. Sadly, this level of openness isn’t worldwide. Some countries have stronger restrictions on freedom of speech, for example. The American way of letting it all hang out comes off as too much.
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Consumerism
Shopping like crazy is almost a national sport in America—we see having the latest & greatest as a sign you’re doing well in life. On the other hand, people in other parts of the world prefer living simply. Lots of them worry about the planet & aren’t exactly cheering on this shopping frenzy. To them, the excitement of Black Friday sales is too much.
Patriotism
It’s standard in America to wave flags and sing the national anthem with your hand over your heart. It’s a big part of our culture—you’ll see our love for the stars and stripes at sports events, holidays & even on bumper stickers! Yet this loud and proud approach to loving your country doesn’t translate well elsewhere. Many other countries believe showing love for your homeland should be more low-key.
Work Ethic
Americans are well-known for burning the midnight oil and putting in long hours to climb that career ladder. After all, the American dream depends on the belief that hard work pays off. However, other cultures value relaxing and spending time with family a lot more. They think our work culture makes us miss out on the good stuff in life.
Entrepreneurial Spirit
Similarly, we have a can-do attitude with starting & running businesses that you won’t find anywhere else. You’ll see this entrepreneurial spirit is celebrated across the States, from garages to dorm rooms. In other countries, the risk & instability associated with starting a business isn’t as encouraged. They don’t understand the American dream.
Gun Ownership
The right to bear arms isn’t controversial in America alone. While some of us stand strong on our Second Amendment rights, people from countries with strict gun laws are rather confused. To them, the idea of owning a gun is far from the norm. They don’t understand the connection between guns and independence, as well as self-protection.
Capitalism and the Free Market
America loves its capitalism like a kid loves cake. The idea that the market sorts itself out with little to no government meddling? Now that’s the way to go. But not everyone’s buying it. Foreign critics argue that this creates a bigger gap between the rich & poor. They believe we shouldn’t overlook the structural inequalities that may affect our wealth.
Privacy
In the USA, keeping your business to yourself is a big deal and we have many laws that protect personal privacy. But digital privacy is another story. Our online privacy laws are rather behind the times compared to stricter rules you might find in the European Union. Tech giants collect vast amounts of our data—and we happily give it to them.
Sports Culture
We take our sports seriously, whether that’s American football, basketball or baseball. Even high school & college sports are important to us! Our intense sports culture is something uniquely American since other countries reserve this passion for big league sports only. They think the scale & commercialization of American sports are rather over the top.
Legal System
The American legal system is at the center of US democracy—our shows & movies glamorize the American courtroom. However, our system, especially aspects like the election of judges & the bail bond system, seem peculiar to those in other countries. They don’t get why we’re so passionate about justice—and the right to sue!
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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