Opinion: A Theory of Everything
Whether we want to admit it or not, we Americans are not universally loved. Gee, what a shock, eh? My theory, and one that Thomas Friedman seems to share, is simple jealousy. Call it the "King of the Hill Theory" if you will. We have it, other countries want it, and they hate us because they can't figure it out in the same way we've been able to.
It's not that Americans are smarter or more talented, it's just that our system, flawed though it may be, lends itself to creativity, risk-taking, and ambitious ideas. No, we didn't invent success, but we do seem to have taken it to a level unseen anywhere else in the world. Why else would so many people from all over the world spend so much time, effort, and money trying to get here?
Jealousy is an ugly, unproductive emotion. If you're devoid of ideas, initiative, or self-reliance, I suppose jealousy and hatred might become viable options. What a shame....