Ike:
I enjoyed reading your post and agree with much of what you wrote. As someone born and educated in Europe and choosing to move to America I have often pondered the differences myself.
In the UK for example, the "noble birth" is still admired and the class system still exists. However, slowly changes are coming. Freddie Laker perhaps was one of the first "commoner" to make it big. Today, Richard Branson of Virgin and a few others, are the new hero's. Diana and Fergie have brought the royal family into the spot light for all to see and for the first time in centuries Brits are asking the question that the French asked over 200 years ago. The "bluebloods" control most of the UK government and big business today as they have for centuries but as in most parts of the world the American culture (yes there really is one) pervades. American movies, television, music and now the internet communicate the American dream. The idea that someone of common birth could rise to have the freedom power and wealth of a nobleman. This, one could say, is a paradigm shift for the British and other European mindsets, not to mention Asia ones.
The thing that has always struck me as odd is that, most of the snobbery that keeps the old class system in place in Europe comes from the middle and lower middle. The gentleman's gentleman is more class conscious than the gentleman or the peasant. The waiter in a fine restaurant or hotel. Contrast this with America where the waiter will tell you his name like an equal, while he may serve you he is not a servant. One could argue, and many Europeans will, that, this is part of the culture and tradition of Europe and it gives stability and peace. Whereas, America is brash and tasteless, money motivated and violent. The truth I suspect is somewhere in between. A safe traditional prison prison is a poor substitute for freedom.
Some thoughts at 4 a.m. that your post ignited...
regards,
Ray |
