Um dos grandes baratos da série que sempre achei na primeira temporada foram as promos dos episódios. E Para esta nova temporada não poderia ser diferente. Assista à três teasers da série tirando sarro da vida de espião:

Nenhuma cena ou spoiler. Apenas dois vídeos de divulgação da série com o humor habitual de nosso serial killer favorito.

Foi disponibilzado ontem no site oficial da série novo websódio de Going Postal chamado "A House Guest"(O Hóspede). Este vídeo está legendado em espanhol e assim que possível posto em português.

Atualizado: Vídeo legendado em português. Créditos de heroesbrasil.org

"Uma escolha esquisita, mas o roteiro pode fazer funcionar."

A seleção de desconhecidos na produção também não incentivava o otimismo. O criador da série, Chris Carter, era um ex-repórter especializado em surf. Gillian Anderson era uma atriz desconhecida, com um pequeno currículo de trabalhos em teatro. David Duchovny era o mais famoso da linha de frente. Em sua filmografia estavam Kalifórnia e Twin Peaks. A série cult de David Lynch era uma estrela dourada no currículo de qualquer ator, mas estava longe de ser um prato para paladares comuns. Para completar, Duchovny havia interpretado o estranho agente Dennis, que trabalhava vestido de mulher.

Impulsionada pelo sucesso de O Silêncio dos Inocentes e com As Aventuras de Brisco County Jr. como sua aposta mais forte na temporada de outono de 1993, a Fox tinha aprovado Arquivo X sem esperar muito, e acabou tendo nas mãos um dos maiores sucessos da TV de todos os tempos.

A criação

A inspiração inicial para Arquivo X, segundo o próprio Chris Carter, foi a série Kolchak e os Demônios da Noite. Produzida nos anos 70 pela rede ABC, a série acompanhava o trabalho de Carl Kolchak, repórter do Independent News Service que lutava contra um assassino misterioso a cada semana e terminava o dia invariavelmente sem provas do que havia acontecido. Estrelada por Darren McGavin, a série nasceu de dois longas para TV, The Night Stalker (1972) e The Night Strangler (1973). Os adversários de Kolchak, uma seleção composta por vampiro, lobisomem, monstro do pântano e Jack, o Estripador, eram uma pista do que Arquivo X mostraria ao público. Kolchak e sua luta inglória contra as autoridades e os descrentes, entre eles seu chefe Tony Vincenzo, seria o molde sobre o qual Carter criaria seu personagem principal, Fox Mulder.

A partir dessa inspiração inicial, Carter construiu uma mistura de gêneros que mesclava ficção científica, terror e policial em doses que desafiavam o limite da credibilidade. O resultado foi um programa que lembrava séries como O Livro Azul e Projeto UFO, nas quais agentes da aeronáutica investigavam OVNIS e visitas alienígenas, os momentos sobrenaturais de Além da Imaginação, a luta do homem que sabe demais de Os Invasores, acompanhado da dinâmica tradicional de uma dupla de policiais que parecem opostos, mas, na verdade, são complementares.

Uma das criações mais bem sucedidas de Carter foi o que a produção chamava de "a mitologia" da série. O primeiro elemento dela era a existência de um departamento no FBI em que seriam investigadas coisas fora do normal. A mitologia diz que, em 1946, o poderoso J. Edgar Hoover classificou o primeiro caso como um arquivo X, e determinou que todos os assuntos não investigados por outros departamentos seriam da alçada da nova área. Ao longo dos anos, o arquivo X tornou-se a curva de rio do Bureau, para onde iam histórias de fantasmas, avistamentos do Pé Grande e outros monstros em geral, e tudo relacionado a OVNIS e à presença de alienígenas na Terra.

O segundo elemento da mitologia é Fox Mulder. Psicólogo, com formação em Oxford, Mulder assombrou os instrutores da academia do FBI com sua capacidade para construir o perfil de criminosos e por seus instintos durante o trabalho de investigação. Sua performance o classificava como um agente com um grande futuro no Bureau. Esse futuro morre no momento em que Mulder e o arquivo X convergem: o agente convence seus superiores a reabrir o departamento.

O que atrai Mulder à coleção de pastas no porão é o desaparecimento de sua irmã, Samantha, na noite de 27 de novembro de 1973. Encarregado de cuidar da irmã durante a ausência dos pais, Mulder é um caso clássico de culpa de sobrevivente. Sem preconceitos contra métodos não tradicionais, ou provavelmente atraído até eles justamente por não serem aceitos pelo establishment, Mulder recorre à regressão hipnótica para lembrar o que aconteceu aquela noite. É desta forma que ele descobre que Samantha foi abduzida. A busca pela irmã é o que faz de Mulder o cavaleiro do Arquivo X, e Samantha o santo graal da mitologia criada por Carter, que estabelece que sua abdução é parte de uma grande conspiração envolvendo o governo e experiências com DNA alienígena em humanos.

A estrutura da série foi montada a partir daí em dois grupos de episódios, as histórias isoladas em que os vilões são monstros “comuns”, e os episódios que prosseguiam com o enredo da mitologia da série. Alimentando o interesse do público, os roteiros inseriam uma seleção de referências a diversas teorias conspiratórias que já habitavam a consciência popular. O informante de Mulder, Garganta Profunda, remete ao homem que revelou aos jornalistas Bob Woodward e Carl Bernstein que o governo estava envolvido nas escutas telefônicas dos escritórios do partido Democrata no que se tornaria o caso Watergate. O nome do trio de ajudantes de Mulder, os Pistoleiros Solitários, saiu da mãe de todas as teorias de conspiração estadunidenses, aquela que cerca a morte do presidente John Kennedy. Pistoleiro solitário é o apelido da conclusão da comissão que investigou o crime de que o presidente foi morto por um único homem. A revista publicada pelo trio, Magic Bullet (Bala Mágica), também nasceu da crença de boa parte da população local de que Lee Oswald só conseguiria cometer o crime como descrito pela investigação governamental se usasse uma bala com poderes mágicos. Outras referências são mais caseiras, como o uso constante dos horários 11:21 e 10:13, uma homenagem de Carter ao aniversário de sua esposa, 21 de novembro, e ao seu, 13 de outubro.

A série

A ação de Arquivo X começa em 6 de março de 1992, quando a agente Dana Scully se encontra com Mulder pela primeira vez. Enquanto Scully recebe suas ordens para supervisionar Mulder numa reunião com a chefia, um homem observa silenciosamente ao fundo. Mais tarde, o público vai reconhecer o observador como um dos vilões da série, o Canceroso. A cena também estabelece que aqueles que comandam a conspiração estão no controle desde o início, a ponto de orquestrarem o encontro de Mulder e Scully.

A escalação de Gillian Anderson foi um golpe de sorte e um ato de enorme instinto de Carter. Inicialmente indesejada pela rede, que queria uma loira alta e mais sexy para o papel, Anderson foi também considerada muito jovem. Embora sem nenhum grande sucesso passado no bolso, Carter conhecia o jogo o suficiente para mentir quanto à idade de Anderson e garantir sua escalação. Scully seria o elemento final da mitologia da série. É quando Mulder explica à nova colega a existência do Arquivo X que aprendemos sobre o estranho departamento do FBI. O mesmo método nos apresenta ao rapto de Samantha. Scully é a guia do público para o universo da série e a voz de Carter, que muitas vezes declarou escrever a partir do olhar da agente.

Desde o piloto, Carter e seus roteiristas estabeleceram também uma inesperada inversão de papéis, com um homem mais emocional e uma mulher mais racional. Arquivo X também foi bem sucedido em construir uma personagem feminina forte, mas não masculinizada. Ao longo da série Scully seria definida como um novo objeto de adoração, o símbolo sexual que pensa.

Outro golpe de sorte para a produção foi a química entre David Duchovny e Gillian Anderson. Segundo Carter, Mulder e Scully são duas partes dele mesmo, a que quer acreditar e a que acha impossível acreditar. O relacionamento entre os dois tornou-se tão interessante para o público quanto a busca pela verdade sobre Samantha. Ciente do valor da tensão sexual, Carter levou a distância entre os dois ao extremo, a ponto da dupla poucas vezes ter usado o primeiro nome um do outro.

Durante os vários anos da série a dicotomia entre os dois, o crédulo e a cética, seria desafiada, mas o romance feito de fiapos de evidências jamais falhou em manter a atenção do público. Brincando com a própria decisão de manter os personagens separados, Mulder e Scully trocaram um beijo no réveillon de 1999 terminando com um sarcástico "o mundo não acabou" do agente para a amiga. O relacionamento da dupla mudaria apenas no final da série, para desagrado de uma parte do público e da crítica e aplausos daqueles que torciam pelo romance. A série, entretanto, jamais mostrou beijos apaixonados ou qualquer outra cena mais quente entre os dois.

Sucesso

A primeira impressão de Arquivo X era de um Twin Peaks mal humorado. O final da primeira temporada colocou a série em 102^o lugar numa lista de 118 programas e os números não eram ruins, mas não eram estelares. A série havia estabelecido com sucesso a dinâmica entre seus personagens, a busca de Mulder, um universo em que o FBI investigava mutantes e mulheres fera, e a atmosfera geral de desconfiança contra aqueles que estão no comando do país e das corporações típica do Arquivo X.

Carter sempre deu crédito ao boca-a-boca como primeiro motor do sucesso de Arquivo X. Estacionada nas noites de sexta, a série procurava justamente o público que não estava lá, adultos que costumam sair para se divertir naquele horário. No Reino Unido a estréia também foi praticamente ignorada e severamente criticada por alguns que mais tarde se retratariam. Embora ainda não fosse um sucesso estrondoso, a primeira temporada deu à série um público fiel, e é considerada uma das pioneiras da Internet. Em 1994 a rede já tinha um newsgroup dedicado ao programa, alt.tv.x-files, e, no mesmo ano, um grupo de discussão criado por um fã na rede Delphi foi transformado no site oficial da série.

As notícias de que Gillian Anderson estava grávida e seu personagem seria engravidado por um alienígena, além de um Globo de Ouro de melhor série, ajudou a acelerar os números para o segundo ano. A gravidez da atriz, que pode ou não ter colocado seu emprego em risco, dependendo de quem concedia a entrevista na época, acabou inspirando um grupo de episódios que se transformou num dos elementos essenciais da mitologia da série. Começando com "Homenzinhos Verdes" ("Little Green Men"), Scully e Mulder são separados. Ela volta a ensinar em Quântico, e ele é escalado para acompanhar escutas telefônicas. O enredo continua em mais sete episódios da segunda temporada em que a agente é raptada e retorna misteriosamente em "Por Um Fio", interpretando uma cena ainda no hospital após dar à luz.

O sucesso a partir daí passou a crescer inexoravelmente. Frases da série, como "Eu Quero Acreditar", "Não Confie em Ninguém" ou "A Verdade Está Lá Fora", passaram a fazer parte do vocabulário das ruas e mais de um colega de escritório descobriu a senha do vizinho de mesa digitando "trustno1". O sucesso como série cult prosseguiu até o quarto ano, quando números ainda mais estrondosos transformaram o patinho feio da temporada de 93 na série preferida dos anunciantes.

A quinta temporada foi marcada pelo nascimento da primeira série derivada de Arquivo X, Millenium, e pela decisão de levar a série para o cinema antes do prazo normal em Hollywood. Ao invés de aguardar o final da série, o longa-metragem foi produzido como uma ponte entre a quinta e a sexta temporada, o que restringiu as possibilidades do roteiro tanto do filme quanto da série.

Ao atingir o sucesso, Arquivo X deu início a uma nova missão, aquela de saber o que fez a série chegar onde chegou. Certamente há o roteiro, a mitologia e a química entre os atores. Mas há também o momento. Ainda longe da paranóia terrorista pós-2001, a série captou a sensação do público de que o mundo não era um lugar seguro. Segundo Chris Carter, o bem vence muito poucas vezes e nós é que vivemos em negação quanto a este fato.

Segundo o diretor do primeiro filme da série, Rob Bowman, Mulder representa o homem atual em busca do sonho americano, que hoje significa descobrir a verdade. Em sua opinião, o público se identificava com a angústia de Mulder em descobrir que as pessoas no governo escondiam fatos e não agiam de acordo com o interesse dos eleitores, fato que não é segredo na América Latina, mas espanta os estadunidenses. A série também compreendia que o mal não era único. Uma vez vencido em uma de suas formas, seja um monstro como Tooms ("Assassino Imortal") ou um criminoso comum como Donnie Pfaster ("Irresistível"), seja como um plano governamental, o mal volta sob nova forma. É sua dedicação em continuar a lutar que fez de Mulder e Scully personagens que o público queria acompanhar.

Censura

Com sua mistura de policial, ficção científica e terror, era claro que Arquivo X teria seus problemas com uma parte do público e, principalmente, com uma parte dos canais exibidores. No Reino Unido a Sky One ganhou notoriedade ao passar a tesoura em "Os Adoradores das Trevas" ("Die Hand die Verletz"). O episódio é uma história isolada em que Mulder e Scully investigam um caso de culto ao demônio em uma escola. Ao todo, o episódio em que Mulder diz uma de suas grandes frases, "você não pode chamar o demônio e depois pedir para ele se comportar", perdeu mais de dois minutos de duração. Outros episódios vítima dos olhos sensíveis da Sky One foram "Ossos Frescos" ("Fresh Bones") e "Sangue" ("Blood"). O motivo era tão "nobre" quanto a ação inútil. As cenas cortadas eram as mais gráficas e aquelas que envolviam armas brancas; mais tarde, quando a série mudou de canal, os episódios foram exibidos sem cortes.

A luta contra a censura, na verdade, começava na produção, quando Carter tinha de defender as cenas mais sangrentas ou nojentas para o pessoal da equipe de Standards and Practices do estúdio. Uma vez aprovados pela Fox, no entanto, o público esperava poder assistir à sua série em paz. Uma solução para o problema no Reino Unido foi dada pelo próprio público: exibir a série mais tarde.

Fim

Para muitos, o fim de Arquivo X chegou no momento em que a série se mudou para Los Angeles na sexta temporada. Produzida em Vancouver, Arquivo X é apenas um dos programas que aproveitou diversas vantagens oferecidas pelo país vizinho. Além de um câmbio favorável, o Canadá oferece incentivos fiscais para atrair produções, entre elas a devolução de parte do valor pago a profissionais canadenses. Geograficamente, Vancouver oferece a facilidade de vários cenários a poucos quilômetros de distância, incluindo áreas com neve, um bondinho, instalações portuárias e bairros que podem interpretar "qualquer lugar nos Estados Unidos" com facilidade. O que Vancouver não tem são dias ensolarados como os da Califórnia. A atmosfera cinzenta acabou sendo incorporada à série, e foi destruída quando Mulder e Scully aterrissaram em Los Angeles.

As mudanças em Arquivo X aconteceram principalmente a pedido de David Duchovny, agora casado com Tea Leoni, embora Chris Carter tenha tentado convencer o público de que o objetivo sempre tinha sido filmar em Los Angeles. Uma parcela dos fãs, descontente com a alteração no tom do programa, se afastou, gerando uma queda de audiência, mas a série ainda era o maior sucesso da Fox. Um sucesso do qual o estúdio não queria se separar. Arquivo X prosseguiu ainda por mais duas temporadas, marcadas pelo afastamento de Duchovny, que iniciou um processo contra a Fox por questões financeiras.

A produção tentou introduzir o conceito de que os personagens poderiam mudar, mas a mitologia manteria o seriado funcionando. Dois novos agentes foram introduzidos no Arquivo X, John Doggett (Robert Patrick) e Mônica Reyes (Annabeth Gish), com Mulder e Scully aparecendo ocasionalmente. A idéia de outras pessoas no Arquivo X, entretanto, jamais foi aceita completamente pelos fãs e o seriado acabou encerrando sua vida na telinha na nona temporada com "A Verdade". E com Mulder e Scully juntos no último episódio.

Um dos melhores desenhos atuais chega ao fim.
No total o desenho teve 61 episódios, sendo dividido em:
20 episódios no Livro 1 ( Água )
20 episódios no Livro 2 ( Terra )
21 episódios no Livro 3 ( Fogo )

O desenho conta a história de Aang, o último dobrador de Ar ( e também é o avatar ), um garoto que deverá dominar os 4 elementos para poder enfrentar o Senhor do Fogo, que criou uma guerra para dominar o mundo.

Para isso nosso personagem percorre vários lugares, onde acontecem diversas histórias.
Muitas vezes temos histórias fora do contexto principal de Aang, o que dá um sabor especial a série.

Acho que tudo ficou melhor no Livro 3 ( fogo ).
O Sokka tem um mestre de espada.
Aang aprende os 4 elementos.

Assim que chega o meio desse livro, cada episódio é mais interessante...

Em partes é uma pena o desenho ter chegado ao fim.
Por outro lado é muito bom saber o fim da história.

Não sei em que episódio a Nick brasileira está e quando mostrará os últimos episódios.
Mas para quem quer saber logo o fim pode entrar no site: http://www.mundoavatar.com.br/
Lá tem todos episódios do livro 3, os últimos estão legendados.

Mesmo chegando ao fim da série, ainda espero ter um "retorno" do desenho, todos grandes desenhos tiveram retorno, como Dragon Ball.
Espero por um quarto livro, pelo menos para mostrar a reconstrução do mundo ( já que todos sabemos que o senhor do fogo destruiu muita coisa ).
E também porque teria mais piadas do Sokka :D

Avatar acabou,
mas acho que um dia volta \o/

A série já vazou e os produtores prometem que o piloto já foi alterado em relação a esta versão. Então confira os novos trailers da estréia mais aguardada desta nova temporada par ver (ou rever) Fringe.

Boa tarde !

Após uma indicação de um novo amigo http://lincolnlamas.com/v2/ que tem seu blog aqui e o qual eu gostei muito  devem ir da uma olhada vale a pena (ele quase me obrigou a me cadastrar risos veio até com o link prontinho para me dar ), decidi ter um wordpress..... ele falou tão bem sobre o wordpress que ele é o mais popular na criação de weblogs. Vem crescendo cada dia mais na internet , pela facilidade de uso de fácil gerenciamento, que não resisti não é? rs

E realmente, me parece ser bom mesmo, ainda estou em teste mas digo nos próximos pots como estou indo =)

Fiquei pensando o que ia postar nesse primeiro post , daí decidi postar algo que eu gosto muito afinal é a primeira impresão é que fica hauhau

Como podem ver no título escolhi série de TV que eu amo não perco um dia!

Eu, a Patroa e as Crianças é um seriado produzido pela emissora americana ABC, tem marcado bons índices de audiência para o SBT.

O seriado de humor mostra o dia-a-dia da família Kyle, composta por Michael sua esposa jay e seus 3 filhos Junior  o mais velho , claire a filha adolescente e kady a mais novinha de 6 anos.

Michael ele é um pai muito amoroso mas adora fazer piada de tudo fora que é careca e sempre sai algo sobre sua careca ahuhauh ele é dono de uma transportadora.

Jay é muito carinhosa mas é muito muito sensivel =) adora dar seus gritinhos aaa é tem uma frase que ela sempre fala quando quer conseguir algo que eu morro de rir ela  mexendo no corpo dizendo assim '' vc vai perder TUUUUUUUUDO ISSO ? '' 

Junior é o mais velho todos zoam ele pela cabeça enorme!!!  mas não é nem um pouco inteligente rs hj ele esta casado com a Vanessa e moram na garagem da casa

Claire é a filha do meio é muito bonita e vaidosa, mas não possui muita esperteza.

Kady Caçula dos três filhos, no inicio da temporada ela era muito inteligente mas conforme sua personagem foi crescendo com seus erros sua inteligencia foi diminuindo hj ela namora o Franklin outra personagem que eu adoro !! é um garotinho prodigio que sempre da conselhos ao Michael e usa cada roupa engraçada que eu morro de rir por que ele é muito pequeno fica engraçadissimo.

Aqui em casa eu digo que somos iguais a essa familia (já estou usando os nomes dos personagens todos aqui rsss ),cheia de confusões mas que sempre levamos com muito humor a vida e que no final tudo da certo pois Familia é familia!!!

bjs ;*

Amitabh Bachchan aka God
If God spoke, it would surely be in that deep baritone! And of course, God would be tall and dignified and well dressed. And surely he would have that twinkle in his eyes that in an instant could change into steely flint.

Salman Khan aka Arun Prajapati
Whether it's losing his balance or losing his job or losing his girl, Arun is convinced God and only God is to be blamed. But if you were in that whacked out zone that Arun inhabits - you would too!

Priyanka Chopra aka Alia Kapoor
If you were as smart and pretty as Alia who would you love? A loser like Arun or a winner like Rocky? It says loads about her character that Alia sees through the chaff and picks the good-hearted failure - Arun.

Sohail Khan aka Rocky
London returned, smart and smarmy, his easy going exterior hides his devilish intentions. When he wants something, he gets it - by fair means or foul usually it's the latter.

Synopsis

At the end of the worst day in his life, Arun Prajapati (Salman Khan) angrily rages against God for making his life miserable. To his astonishment, God (Amitabh Bachchan) appears before him in human form and endowing Arun with all of his divine powers, challenges Arun to take on the big job and see if he can do it any better.

Arun responds to his newfound powers with childlike zeal and sets off making one hysterical yet disastrous decision one after another. The love of his life Alia (Priyanka Chopra) is astonished at the 'new' decisive and confident Arun. He thinks he can make the world a happy place by granting everybody their wishes. But to his horror, this results in unprecedented mayhem. Ultimately, Arun realises that he is only human, and being God is tougher than he thought!

O elenco de Jaspion (Japão 1985) se reuniu para uma entrevista final antes do término da série.

Os atores Hikaru Kurosaki (Jaspion), Kiyomi Tsukada (Anri) e Junichi Haruta (MacGaren), fazem um balanço geral de um ano de trabalho juntos.

BEZZI

Clique no arquivo desejado para fazer o download:

Hayden Panettiere não se contenta em ser atriz e em defender os animais. Ela também quer ser cantora, e sua primeira música de trabalho já está nas rádios! A Claire de "Heroes" foi ao programa do Ryan Seacrest, apresentador do "American Idol", para lançar "Wake Up Call", um pop com toques de reggae que você ouve clicando aqui. E não é que a voz dela é bacana? Já o ritmo...

Diz pra gente: gostou da música de Hayden, ou ela deveria apenas atuar?

**Amanda**

1º. House - 100.665 telespectadores
2º. Law and Order: SVU - 89.631
3º. Monk - 83.881
4º. CSI - 82.444
5º. Two and a Half Men - 72.866
6º. The Big Bang Theory - 70.999
7º. Without a Trace - 70.234
8º. Law and Order: SVU - reprise vespertina - 68.442
9º. Cold Case - 68.106
10º. Two and a Half Men - reprise - 66.276
11º. Criminal Minds - 65.865
12º. Law and Order - 65.660
13º. Brothers and Sisters - 64.689
14º. Law and Order: Criminal Intent - 63.737
15º. Psych - 63.382

House é rox...

The USA's role in the world was discussed in a unique global television debate hosted by the BBC.

The debate revealed the results of a ground-breaking, international survey of attitudes that will capture popular prejudices and convictions about America.

Under discussion was America's relations with other countries post-September 11, the country's cultural legacy and what the future holds for the world's only superpower.

The programme also revealed that News Online readers voted Homer Simpson as the Greatest American in history.

What do you think of America? Who is the greatest American? What is the USA's best, and worst, contribution to the world?

The following comments reflect the balance of opinions we have received:

The American people are a generous people and want to help others less fortunate when they can. Our help during World War II was our best contribution. But the world must understand that is the government that does the stupid things. I am ashamed of our present White House. Americans are sometimes too busy pursuing a living and enjoying their leisure to be fully informed.
Nancy Consolo, USA

The greatest Americans have to be those who drew up the Constitution. Compare the clarity, ambitions and prose of the American Constitution to that drawn up by the EU. I know which I would rather live with.
Michael, Nottingham, UK

I personally think that America is still a great democracy and that we Europeans should never forget what they have done for our freedom in the First and, especially, in the Second World War. Mario Gazzeri, Italy

The USA has become a symbolic lightning rod for modernization and social change. As the strongest capitalist nation it takes the blame for, and the consequences of the estrangement from capitalism in a broader sense. In addition, nationalist Islam was promoted by dictatorial regimes in newly independent countries, with the West becoming their scapegoat. Modernisation will not stop, and I am sure that the hatred of America will not cease until local social and political problems are solved.
Remko de Knikker, The Netherlands/USA

While the US preaches freedom, she continues to support some of the most brutal dictatorial regimes such as Saudi Arabia. The US preaches free trade and yet not only practices protectionism. The US preaches human rights and yet shows a complete lack of regard for international law and the Geneva Conventions as is obvious in its treatment of Taliban and Al-Qaida suspects. The US invades Iraq on the pretext of upholding UN Resolutions and yet has consistently used its veto to undermine the UN's credibility, particularly in relation to Israel which receives in excess of 3 billion a year in order to sustain an illegal occupation. Need we say more?
Paul Tate, UK

I think that American policy promotes democracy.
Babacar Gaye, Senegal

I'm an American who's lived in the UK for 8 years. I adore my country in so many ways, and though I understand and agree with many of the UK's criticisms, I still believe that, overall, Americans are a friendly and warm bunch. I am, however, finding it increasingly difficult to stomach the changes I've observed since 11 September. The overwhelming conservatism and reactionary attack on the arts especially frightens me.

I married into an East European family and know just where this mass hysteria and false media (i.e. the way the US media linked 11 September to Iraq) can lead.
Jenny Siklos, UK/US dual citizen living in UK

If the US government could at least provide free healthcare and jobs for everyone, then it could surpass Stalin's Russia.
Hetty Litjens, Netherlands

I would like to know where are Iraq's weapons of mass destruction? Did the US really want to save Iraq's people or does it have an interest in something else?
Eduardo Bianco Rosada, Brazil

I moved to US in 1996. I must say if there is any country in the world where there is so much opportunities lies then that country is USA. This is also one of the countries where many immigrants come with almost no money and can still make millions. It is true however that USA needs to carefully examine its foreign policy that always tries to serve her personal interests. Especially, the present administration is showing very arrogant attitude towards the rest of the world. However, American people are very nice and overall kind people.
Anish, USA

For those doubting America's commitment to keeping freedom alive, visit the D Day landing beaches of France. Without freedom of the individual we would all be consigned to the dark repression to which so many countries are subjected.
Ray Walster, Guernsey, UK

It would seem that many in the world now regard America in much the way that America's founding fathers regarded Britain in the 18th century.
Stuart Williams, UK

How is America free? The fact is there are laws in the US against free speech and free association just as there are in every country in this world; the ILLUSION that the US is free is what allows Bush to use American might as he does.
Tom, UK (ex-US)

As the popular American flick Spiderman said, "With great power comes great responsibility." If only we as citizens could direct our leaders' focus toward helping instead of hegemony.
Wells Harrell, U.S.A.

When working in a ski resort in Canada I was approached by an American, he noticed that my name badge said Rob, UK. His comment " UK?...That stands for the Ukraine right?" I think for a fair percentage of Americans ignorance is bliss!
Rob, UK

I am not American I am British but if I could not live in Britain I would live in the USA, America is the first and only superpower who can do good and they are. I 100% back the US and Bush, God bless America.
Jonathan, United Kingdom

America used to be a big brother now it seems to want to be the Big Brother (Orwell style). Since G. W. Bush wrestled the reins out of Gore's hands he has managed to insult all America's friends and allies and reverse important world and environment issues in favour of economy. It is a shame that the polite and friendly American people are persecuted for that but, hey, they voted him in (nearly)
Nic Politakis, UK / NL

America itself is not unfriendly. The only problem is it politicians and the Bush administrations. He is the one who created all problems such as, double standards on Middle East, Global Issues, Import Duties and so on. Also, on the run up on the IRAQ war, they were not truthful. Well, what is fair to say that they think they are always right but they are not. That is arrogant! I am sure America will suffer more if Bush is elected in the 2nd terms and proceed with his bullying tactic.
SM Lim, Malaysia

Where would the world be without America????? In poverty, that's where!!
Helen Maunder, UK

The USA believes the sources of the problems of the world have to be found outside the US. They are wrong! Instead of looking at the world start looking at your own back yard!
Michael, Belgium, Flanders

United States are still for me the American dream, a source of hope for humanity. The trouble, now, is the behaviour of its politicians who are abusing its huge power to promote an out of date irrational vision of the nation and of international relations. I just hope that such behaviour is going to end with the mandate of George W. Bush and that the US will participate again in a peaceful way to the building of a better world.
Luc Grasset, France

What other country in the world has such a diverse population? No country is perfect, but we are truly the world's melting pot.
Rick Reddick, American living in Belgium

The reason we are criticized is not due to envy, it is because we represent a dream, a dream the rest of the world admires and that dream is slipping away. We are seen as the child who had huge promise but is too self-absorbed to preserve and nurture the freedom given us by our forefathers.
Ingrid Seel, USA

How would you trust the country like America that could not choose his president legally?
Serhat Aksu, UK

With all the blame that goes toward President Bush it will be interesting to see how everyone treats our next President. This seems to be everyone's main complaint. Can't stand him myself... but I don't think any of these American Empire ideas have any validity.
Duke, US

Having just moved to America, from the UK I have seen how unaware the US is of politics, it's view on the war is frequently based on the 9/11 attack. This is frightening. Bush has brainwashed them.
Martine Harvey, America

I love America - the world would be boring without it.
Dack, Venezuela

Anybody who Bush doesn't like will have links with al-Qaeda overnight.
David, 12, England

It seems obvious that many Europeans feel a kind of inferiority complex towards the US. That is the reason for a lot of criticism coming from Europe against the US policies in the world. Even those from this land of deep north (Finland), the people most critical of US are also those most ignorant about the rest of the world too, for example of the danger of terrorism. To see the US as it is in an unbiased light, one must come to grips with September 11th.
Veijo Sinerva, Finland

The Good= USAID The Bad= Politician The Ugly= USA Military Machine
Aseifelnasr, EGYPT

I am completely ashamed to be American. I'm living under an administration that is corrupt, bullies and threatens everybody (i.e. Iraq, Iran, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Belgium, France, Germany, Russia, just to name a few) and sets appalling double standards on the world. I want out! I want to move to a country that WILL respect other countries' sovereignty, international law and public opinion, and where girls will like me for who I am, not what I look like.
Mike, USA (unfortunately)

The USA is overbearing and thinks too much of itself. To many Americans the rest of the world doesn't count, unless money can be made...
Wiebe Goossen, Netherlands

There are some neighbours that mind their own business and carry on with their life and respect the presence of others. And then there is the USA.
Johnny, Canada

In every period there is a super power to reckon with. America is the Roman empire of our time. Good, bad or a bit of both it sets the standards of our time. In the end I'm optimistic about the positive influence of the America on the world culture. Not that I agree with everything it is doing or has done or that it should be left unchallenged.
Mehrdad Sadeghi, Iran

Worldwide there are 100 million words written every day about the faults of the U.S. But how many words are written about countries that are really horrible, i.e., North Korea? Why so silent?
Kevin Long, USA

Truly, the greatest country on earth and the emblem of hope!
Abiye Abebe, Ethiopia

I have nothing much to say about US public except good people with washed brain and their leaders are arrogant and ignorant
Saifudeen, India

In my opinion the mayor problem for America is the deep rift between the official images of the mass media / lobbies and government on one site and the multicultural riches of its population, that generally remain in the shadow. The other big gap is the temptation or the illusion to be the new empire, where the superpower is the only criterion of political decision and moral values. This represents the death of the minorities and the true freedom to be different and to think different.
Flor Maria Rigoni, Mexico

There are two different Americas - the internal one which gives its people prosperity and the external one which has been responsible for great atrocities and injustices around the world. The first America is rightly admired; the second rightly reviled.
Abdul Hamid, Pakistan

I think America's biggest problem is that its people like it to much. Americans are too proud of their country to ask themselves and their government the really tough questions. There is a difference between loving your country and agreeing with its policy.
Lars R., Germany

As a non-American I recently discovered that what I think makes no difference whatsoever.
Annika, Russia

To the citizens of the world: Please do not group all Americans in the same class. Not everyone supports the deleterious rule of George W. Everyone must realize that we Americans are no more homogeneous than, say, the Brits, the French or the Germans. We have many different people who all feel differently about the world and about the conditions under which we live. It is not the "Americans" who pose a threat to the world. Rather it is the American government. Thanks!
Eric Spears, USA

The USA is not perfect, and Americans may tend to be arrogant and hypocritical at times. But nobody is perfect, and considering the options, I think the world is very lucky that America is the big kid on the block. It could be much worse. I believe there is a certain hypocrisy from many that complain about America. Because it is often expected to be the best, America is criticized for its faults much more than any other country would be.
Tom Swick, USA

A superpower that one day will destroy itself like all the superpowers before them.
Adi, Malaysia

As others have noted, the historical American achievements especially their constitution and bill of rights have been icons of inspiration to many dreamers around the world. That was then and this is now... In the same way that the German people can not be held accountable ad infinitum for the crimes of their forefathers, then USA can not be congratulated ad infinitum for the achievements of their forefathers without looking at who currently in power creating tomorrow's reputation for them... Wake up USA, save yourselves and in doing so you will save the rest of us... you were once Great...
AG, France

Recently, anti-Americanism seems to be generated by the US policy makers. If you are not with us, you are against us attitude has created a rift that seems to be getting more press than warranted. The Bush administration is doing a great nation an even bigger disservice. Greatest American - Martin Luther King Jr.
Tim, Canada

There's the America of Benjamin Franklin and Lincoln, and FDR and JFK, of Gene Kelley and Woody Allen, and Richard Geere and, yes, Daffy Duck and the Hardy Boys, and most of all the nice guy from round the corner, helpful, good sportsman and open minded - it is the land of many of my friends. And so much is possible there.

Yet it is also the country which refuses to understand the rest of the world, refuses to understand that not all want to be like them, the country whose politicians have so often failed to observe other people's sensitivities and while purporting to bring freedom just supported the next dictator and outlawed those who exerted the very idea of freedom of opinion against American interests. At some point this powerful nation seemed to spit on values we thought were common ground (environment, global warming, international criminal court - and truth!) And that makes it a difficult friendship - which it still is.
Christian von Baudissin, Germany

Nice people. A little drunk with power, but generally nice.
Simon, Canada

America is a wonderful dream of equality, compassion and brotherhood. The reality however is ego, corruption and violence.
John Toth, Canada

I think the US is extreme; whatever good or bad, it is always extreme. When the culture/society choices is bad, it is badly wrong (eg: weapons policy, foreign policy...hey, don't forget I'm French!). But when something is good, it is pretty good, they appreciate comfort, the whole society just lives in comfort (assuming one has enough financial means...). Anyway, the US is very different, but most of all, is very big (extremely)..and that's why so many people talk about it. I'm waiting for China to rise.
Fay, France

America is our neighbour and great friend but she is unwilling to compromise where her economic interest lies. It doesn't hesitate to embrace the dictators and exercise economic and political muscle to twist even the friends to achieve her national objectives.
Dr.Rajinder Sehgal, Canada

America as a country is vastly different from its foreign policy formulators. If it can keep its greatness to itself and not impose that on others, it will go a long way in buying peace.
Krishnan, India

What do I think of America? I'm going to Canada to ask for political asylum!
Ian Kenney, Missouri, USA

We don't hate Americans. I always love to go over there (at least once a year). It's just this administration. This must be the most arrogant administration we have ever seen in the USA. Rumsfeld, Wolfowitz, Bush and poor Colin Powel (who cannot express his own views), what a disaster they created in two and a half years. All the credit the Clinton administration got in the world is now completely evaporated (no Kyoto, no international Crime Tribunal, scaring off everybody, insulting 'old' Europe, the list goes on). Hillary, please run for presidency in 2004 and to all my friends in America: vote for another administration, please.
Wim, Belgium

My Lord, could you imagine living your life based on what everyone else thinks about you?
Bruce Abbott, USA

Throughout history, whatever country was on top (Rome, the British Empire) has been disliked by others. Much of the criticism of the US is coloured by this factor. We should try to differentiate between what are simply inferiority complexes and what are legitimate criticisms.
George Yiannakou, Cyprus

What once could be a promising country has now become a burden on the world.
James Ostenburg, from the US, but living abroad

I think America is great. The American attitude "let's get it done" is found in very few places in this world. That makes people envious. They can't do it themselves. So the result is that the Americans are doing it for them - for good and bad. The Americans got rid of Saddam. Good! Now they want to tidy up the country (in the American way) Bad! USA tidied up Europe after WWII. Fine. Our culture is not very different for the American culture. But the Arab culture is. Get out when it is time! Otherwise you (the Americans) will end up with a new VietNam. You are always trying to do something for the rest of the world. That is why we hate you. That is also why we love you.
Gunnar Hovde, Denmark

I live here and the scariest thing is the total lack of thinking on the part of the public. One third of the population surveyed think that WMD were used in the war and almost half believe that Saddam instigated the 9/11 attacks. The ignorance here in the land of "free information" will bring many more catastrophes.
Mey, USA

I really think of America as the bully of the world who can decide who is peaceful and who isn't. Right now, Iran is the next target for the war-hungry Bush administration. How much peace is there going to be if US just decides to be the only superpower without any opposition whatsoever?
Samuel Goma, Zambia

Global policeman neglecting the public opinion, and a home of junk food, a land of poorly educated people, big gap between poor and rich.
Irena , Russia

Looking back at the US history would be better then to act as a world police - America's native people and those with a slave-history would be most thankful probably.
Charlotte, Indonesia

What the country has achieved in a relatively short time is testament enough to its greatness. Commercially and culturally it is streets ahead of the rest of the world, and its people are allowed to have their own opinions.
P.Richards, UK

America is the bully of the world.
Ekrem Sarac, Turkey

The peoples of the countries that were occupied by Nazi-Germany should be eternally grateful to their liberators. Yes we can disagree, but we should never forget the sacrifices they did for us. Thousands of their young and bright men, full of dreams and hope for the future, lay dead in our fields. Criticism should not turn into hate or ridicule.
Chris Dhondt, Belgium

I'm a patriot American. I see that our country has been taken over at the highest levels of federal government by dictatorial power hungry world rulers and the American people are like sheep. They are too shallow to care much less recognize this fact. Our constitution means nothing to the federal government. We are no different than the communist or 1950`s and 60`s.
Kirk Cramer, USA

No nation has ever killed so many through its policies, or crushed freedom to such an extent. A world without America would be a paradise indeed. All the wars and violence are caused by America's domination. No righteous person can feel anything but blind rage at them.
Khamal Khan, London, England

America! The land of the freely misguided, home of capitalism where the consumer reigns supreme. America! Champion of free-speech and democracy, yet market forces scream louder and dictate their policies. America! the lesser of all evils.
Ibi, London, UK

I have the highest respect possible for the United States and everything they have done and stand for. They are the greatest nation since the Roman Empire. I love Italy and I will ALWAYS be thankful to the US for liberating the country in WW2.
Sid, Italy

I think Americans in general are too self-centred. Everything is about them ignoring that the world is not just about America. Furthermore, most Americans are ignorant of what's happening in other parts of the world but still wants to impose their wants & rights on others. The world is not your playground, America!
Albert, Philippines

Bully.
Akanksha, United Arab Emirates

A wonderfully optimistic country, with basically well-intentioned people. I find idealism here that has been missing for a long time in the UK, especially among young people. There is still the belief here that with hard work you can achieve anything, and that makes the country more alive and vital than some of the older cultures.
Pamela Twycross-Kent, US

I have lived in the US, still work there regularly, and have many American friends. I like the American people but I think that they are brainwashed. They are indoctrinated with the view that 'US is best' from kindergarten onwards, and never even taught the basics of world geography, history or politics so that they have no view of the world beyond their borders and are never encouraged to explore it. Their media exploits the image of the US as perfect people in a perfect place, but in the Developed World I have never seen the kind of poverty that I witnessed in the state of South Carolina. How can the government of such a place feel that they have the right to dictate living conditions in other countries?
Kate R, UK

The US feels from the inside like it is experiencing a troubled adolescence; powerful and yet lacking in the information and experience to act responsibly as a mature entity. Most discouraging is travelling through the middle of the country, where contact with the rest of the world is minimal. People believe without question what they hear from George W., and the media merely repeats his viewpoint, also without critique. Still, we can feel a healthy scepticism returning slowly as the country seems to be moderating its recent trend to the political right. In summary to those around the world: please have patience, we are experiencing political malfunction.
Michael Jacobs, USA

Love it or hate it, America represents the current zenith of mankind's ongoing struggle to live free of the dictates and whims of rulers and despots.
Chris, US

Chris, US: Do you really believe that that is what the US stands for? The US has never meddled so blatantly with the affairs of other nations and its people as it is doing now. What ever happened to self determination? Or is it self determination in accordance to US foreign policy?
Alfred, Spain

The policy of America has changed a lot. Six years ago everyone wanted to see President Clinton when he was in Brussels. The crowd was cheering. Now when President Bush came, no one wanted him. Why? The reason is the changed and wrong messages they send to the world. They let the world feel that everyone is equal, but Americans are still a step higher. Just look to the International Court in the Netherlands. Every international rule that exist has been broken by them. But it is not the people in America who are the problem but the government. Through a bad government the best state in the world can even go down and I think there are a lot of examples of that in the history.
Johan, Belgium

America realizes that it is not perfect and never will be, so don't expect it to be. American does have the resolve, when necessary, to protect itself and other freedom loving peoples around the world. Dictatorships and slave nations still abound and there are strange ideas about how this world should exist. America by necessity must invest in peace through strength. Weakness by any country is only an invitation to be stepped upon by others. Don't expect America to lie down and be a doormat for rogue nations to wipe their feet on. Americans are not going to bury their heads in the sand as some in other nations seem to do. Thank you to England; Australia; Spain; and the many other nations that continue to stand up against oppression around the world. If you are waiting for a perfect nation to arise out of the ashes of this world, you indeed will have a long wait.
Thu Greene, United States of America

I think that the USA need to realise that their way is not the only way.
CB, Ireland

I am very proud to be American, born and raised. I do support our president, but I do feel that the US should be playing a lesser role in keeping the peace around the world. The governments of these countries need to take responsibility for there own actions.
Erik Ruud, USA

In America's naivety to create so called peace and freedom they take us one step closer to a world of fear. In an American universe, the US will be happy. We must however all think about what it is they have actually done, is the world any more safe or peaceful? Are the oppressed societies and third world nations really getting a better deal? There are many statements made by the US that are untrue or never fulfilled. They are far too exclusive in their execution of who and when they liberate, and more importantly why?

If America wants to lead let them use their power to heal and provide. But of course the motive is not really a safer better world for all, it's a better safer world for America, the rest of us just have to hope we don't fall to their intolerance, sense of "Justice" or their economic sanctions. All in all they are just bullies really filled with a bit too much self interest and importance.
Mr Brooks, UK

The USA is the world's great power and full of good people unfortunately until there is a leadership with the good of the world at the centre of decision making rather than a greed mentality supported by neo-conservative/enterprise/Christian fundamentalist think tanks the rest of the world will continue to view the USA with suspicion if not hate
Michael Jennings, France

Home of junk food? Yes. Land of the free? Sorry, no - try saying anything against Iraq-war! The greatest American was President Lincoln. The best contribution of America is "Technology" and the worst is "Misuse of technology"!
Dr. Saroj K. Das, India

For all those who think that they know America and try to compare it with the UK for example, I have lived in both societies and I know! The most vocal critics of America are the British and Dutch as seen in these columns and that's just crazy. America is truly the land of the free and will not follow the UK which had an Empire to create, you are wrong Roy Matthews! I came here for my children and grandchildren who will know true freedom and democracy because of capitalistic ideals and true market forces prevailing and not the other way round, Graham Dobson! Open your eyes you naysayers and look at the America dream as I did, yes it works for a 1/4 billion people, can't be bad!
John, Ex-Brit/USA

Liberty schmiberty. There is a con-artist woven into every thread of the fabric of American society. Banks, the government, employers, and insurance companies pursue everyone's purse from birth to death. No wonder this culture is so hollow and the people so broken. The entities that demand our servitude are crushing us. S.U.V.s, guns, and plastic surgery. Mentally ill indigents living on the sidewalks in their own urine. What is that stench? I reckon it's the smell of greed.
Fred Martich, USA

People who criticise the US and it's people should look to themselves first - they possess many of the vices they project on Americans. For French citizens to lambast the US government as arrogant and overbearing is a delicious irony; and UK citizens seem to dislike Americans because they are apparently obsessed with wealth - yet this country talks about nothing except how much their house has increased in value. If anything Americans are perhaps too honest and a little naive - they don't possess the cynicism that many Europeans have. Is this a vice or a virtue?
Rob, UK

I do not think that Europe has yet really caught up with the concept that the USA under the Neoconservative Bush Administration is no longer the land of the free. Detention without trial, access to counsel or habeas corpus. Ruthless abuse of corporate funding and media manipulation to pervert the electoral and legislative process. The public bamboozled into supporting an unlawful war with false evidence. Europe should distance itself from the USA until there is a change of Administration and a reversal of present policies.
Mourad, UK

American democracy is and shall remain the greatest system of governance in the world. No other system promotes and protects the welfare of peoples everywhere as well, even if we don't always like the way it does this. Those who criticise this system - there are many in Canada - do so from under the umbrella of American prosperity, protection, and freedom from tyranny.
Kristian, Canada

Most of the negative views of the USA are due to envy. If you look at the previous world powers throughout history (UK, France, Spain) you will notice that they too were hated and viewed with envy by the other nations of the time. America's government and foreign policy may not be perfect, but that is no different from every other nation.
Adam Carlo, USA

Heartless social policies, arrogant and corrupt politicians, ignorance of foreign cultures and their own history - it is no wonder people are criticising America more now than only a year ago. Clinton was pleasant and articulate enough to cover up the dirtier sides of American politics abroad, George W is not. The hypocrisy of the war on Iraq, the treatment of foreign soldiers captured and the discrimination occurring against their own Muslim and Arab minorities does not impress the world. Europe is at least a generation ahead in terms of human rights and social democratic policies. A state that puts its own to death, that hands out cruel sentences to minor drug offenders, that bullies the rest of world into waging war on a brutal, friendless regime through untruths is not a state to admire. In Europe we moan and criticise them, though it is done in vain. Greater political activism by the American people will change their image overseas although the two party system and absence of any real organised labour movements handicaps this.
Marco, Espana

Of all the current governments in the world today the US government is the oldest. Our system is not perfect but it is one of the best. I have travelled the world and yes Americans do have a different view then most other people. We believe in taking care of ourselves not relying on the state we are not socialist in nature but individualistic. Compared to most countries our constitution is vague and short. But the US stands by her allies and does not turn her back on her friends. Over half of all food aid and the majority of financial aid comes from the US. As a country yes we have made mistakes but they have not been as bad as many made by other countries. We do not perceive ourselves as better or worse then others just different. Yet millions of people line up to enter our country every day.
Thomas, USA

Who else would you rather rely on when you're in a corner? Where else has generated more technical advances it the last 100 years? Where does the rest of the world vote with its feet to get to (in addition to other Anglosphere countries)? Of course the yanks have their foibles, but then again who hasn't? My vote goes to Thomas Edison as the American most representative of its capabilities: the use of scientific knowledge to invent practical devices for the world, and making a fortune in so doing!
Neil, England

A democracy of diversity and freedom? I find that pill rather hard to swallow from a nation that has covertly removed more fairly elected governments in modern times than any other. A nation that has created, embraced and armed tyrants which later bite the hand that's been feeding them. The US sees itself in it's own rose tinted glow and appears unable to accept criticism from within it's own borders, let alone the from the rest of the World.
Terry , Canada

Arthur Miller's 'Death of a Salesman' tells it all - a fine dream, gone irrevocably sour. No-one could argue with the principles on which the US was founded. If only it had stuck with them, and prevented the corporate military industrial complex from seizing control. Now 'liberty' means freedom to exploit, consume and pollute, the freedom of the rich to look after their own, and sacrifice America's own sons and daughters to that end. America has been sliding since the 50s, it's getting poorer (more Americans on the poverty line than since the 30s) and worse educated. In terms of standards for it's ordinary people, it's just not cutting it anymore - why else would Bruce Springsteen be searching for the ghost of Tom Joad... America is in dire need of a political renaissance that leads Americans to look critically at THEMSELVES for a change.
Luke Rendell, UK living in Canada

I think the United States (I refuse to call it just America because that's the name of a whole continent and not only the name of a country) can be a nice place to visit, or even to live, but definitely its policy has brought good and bad for the world. We cannot deny all the advantages it bring us in technology, media, etc., but it also brings so much devastation to the world. I do not believe they are a paradise or the land of freedom anymore, maybe they were in the past, but now their ambition to conquer and rule the rest of the world has made them blind to see what the world thinks about them.
Fiorella, Peru

I feel sad that the world take such a low view of the United States. Granted we make a fair share of mistakes, but overall I think we are a very generous nation. Whenever there is a natural disaster the US is always there to lend a hand or give money. We are the largest contributor to relief organizations in the world. All this money comes out of the pockets of US citizens. When the world criticizes the US it also criticizes her citizens.
George Chapple, USA

The USA's best contribution to the world is its University system and the knowledge which it produces. There is an amazing amount of research performed in America's public and private universities which yield significant applied benefits (medical and other technologies) and greatly expand our understanding of ourselves and the world.

The USA's worst contribution to the world is rampant consumerism. It is a form of arrogance defined by a mindset which seeks to elevate one's own comfort and social standing with complete disregard for the social and environmental consequences. It is seldom malicious, it is just done in ignorance, driven by the American marketing behemoth and with the complicity of millions who all feed upon each others' perceptions - perceptions that they do not develop and test themselves (in contrast to the environment which America's universities cultivate), but rather which they lazily adopt from the barrage of American marketing. This behaviour is terribly corrosive and destructive, and sadly it is one of America's leading exports.
Doug Poland, USA

The US is the biggest threat to everyones way of life. They are imposing GM Crops on us, they are imposing "justice" on the world by dropping bombs on innocent people. What right to the Americans have to interfere in any country but their own. They have used the Veto more than any other security council member. They pollute more than anyone else. They refuse to ratify Kyoto and refuse to join the ICC. In my opinion the rest of the world should kick the USA out of the UN and leave them on their own.
Dave, UK

I regard America as a land of contradictions. Founded as the 'land of the free' where it is 'held to be self evident that all men are born equal', slavery continued long after the British Empire had abolished it. It trumpets a democracy which is so dominated by money and corporate interest that conservatism is the default state. It is proud of its anti-imperialist ideology yet it faced down the Soviet Union in what was a conflict between Empires in all but name. America is no different than Britain before it; some noble intentions, some real achievements but an imperial power nonetheless.
Roger, UK

I can't stand what America stands for. It is arrogant, obnoxious, unthinking and bullying. BUT, I'm married to an American, and a Texan at that, which just goes to show that you should blame the faults of the country on the individuals, as they aren't all that bad.
Ben Christie, UK

I have mixed feelings towards the US. On one hand, they have brought a lot of good to the world from the rebuilding of Europe to bringing us to the Moon. On the other their constant disregard of international opinion, their history of bringing violence abroad and their capitalist ideal that is plundering the Earth's resources make the US far from perfect. I have no problem with the US, but I think the rest of the world should also have a say about where the world is heading. I therefore whole-heartedly encourage European unification, and would like to see other such ventures in the World now that individual countries do not have the weight to speak out when they believe US international policy requires discussion. Their best contribution to the world: their space program. That's where our future lies.
Charles, France

The United States is the only country in the world where someone can arrive at penniless and their children can end up multi-millionaires.
Kevin, USA

As an American, I am understandably proud of my country. I believe that the principles guiding American government are the noblest and most enlightened the world has ever known. At the same time, I am uncomfortable with the current administration. I feel like it has (with the best of intentions, mind you) ridden the wave of public sentiment following the September 11 attacks to put it in a position where it is in danger of abusing its power and actually suppressing freedom. I am particularly opposed to the new policy of Pre-emption, which I believe is fundamentally un-American. For the greatest American, I nominate George Washington. He embodied the new republic and guided the nation through a time when it could have very easily fallen apart. Then, he returned to his farm and refused to be put into a position where he could abuse his power: a new Cincinnatus.
Michael, USA

We hate your diets, but we love McDonalds. We think your greedy and selfish, but we'll take money from the largest aid donor in the world. We don't want you to police the world, we just want to pick and choose where we send your military. We deplore your culture, but we love your movies and are becoming more and more like you everyday. We think you're stupid, but we will continually seek out your universities. We think your arrogant, that's why we plead for your tourism. We hate all that America stands for, because you are the land of the free and have a Democracy and Economy, the likes of which the world has never seen. We secretly want to be you America, that's why we hate you.
Jay, Earth

If America is such a bad place then answer me why people risk their life to make it to our shores. I can sum it up for you. They come here because of "freedom" and "liberty" and the opportunity (not the right) to succeed. We are blessed with many resources and a great expanse of land which allows us to use to our benefit. America has always stood by her allies and stood up against tyranny. We are a capitalistic nation that leans toward conservatism but allows the liberal voice to be heard and debated. The greatest American of all time is Ronald Reagan. He defeated communism with his steadfast principles and unwavering strength. If you want an American icon of what we stand for.... then look no further than John Wayne.
Bart McMurry, USA

Bart McMurry, USA: people from the third world risk their lives to make it to the shores of all the developed nations. It says a lot about the conditions those people are leaving behind, and the only thing it says about the USA or any other rich nations is that we are not doing enough to help the poor. It also proves everything I already thought about Americans that they would smugly transform news about the despair of others into an example of what a great place the USA is.
Antti Kievari, Finland

The difference between America and the rest of the world is rooted in our very foundations and history. From the very beginning of our colonial past, America was both a commercial enterprise and a means of escaping religious persecution. The people who settled (and continue to settle) in this "new" and untamed country were seeking freedom and opportunity, and were industrious, ambitious, and creative risk-takers. In today's terms, you could say, they were willing to "think outside the box."

To many in Europe and, indeed, throughout much of the world, Americans are considered brash, arrogant, and greedy. But to Americans, confidence in our abilities, pride in our accomplishments, and a desire to see what next new challenge we can overcome are the hallmarks of what it is to be American. It is what has enabled us to send a man to the moon; to develop computers and other technological wonders; to produce works of great literature, music, and art; and to encompass a diverse, friendly, and energetic populace.
A. Cohen, United States

The USA is great in terms of resources and productivity, and has contributed much to art as well as technology. However, US policy seems to presume that the powerful are always right (because they have God on their side, apparently) and is often blind to the plight of the weak. This has been consistently seen in US foreign policy and trade agreements, as well as in domestic problems with ghettos, the death sentence, 'Christian' fundamentalism and some forms of racism. What stops the US being truly great is the failure to recognise its weaknesses - this makes all their global policing look like hypocrisy.
Heather, UK

I nominate Noam Chomsky as the greatest American. He is the leading theorist in linguistics and a thoughtful political critic.
Brent Futrell, USA

I admire the trailblazers regardless of their fame, those individuals who see problems and find solutions. Its a can-do spirit that, believe it or not, is quite prevalent in today's American youth, which gives me much hope for our nation's future.
Suzanne W., USA

Like all other countries; an intelligent, compassionate and peaceful minority, overshadowed by an arrogant, power hungry and selfish majority. The only reason they are hated is because they are so powerful that we have to put up with the arrogant sector, not because they are so different.
Matt, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

We have achieved more in a little over 200 years than any other country has ever dreamed of. Europe has such a deep beautiful history. It would be much different today if the US did not get involved in World War II. It is true that most of America takes our freedom and all that goes with it for granted. We watch the news around the world in horror sometimes because we can't imagine how a country could get to be such a mess.

We have been accused recently of isolationism and imperialism. I am proud to be an American. Maybe going to Iraq under the guise of WMD was misguided, but somebody had to do it. We didn't ask to police the whole world but we are the first one everyone looks to when there is a crisis anywhere in the world.

As far as the greatest American; it has to be Abraham Lincoln. Just read the Gettysburg Address.
Mr Sandy Clark, United States of America

America stands alone in the world thanks to its unique Aristotelian foundations, of Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of one's own Happiness. Contrast this with most of the world's nations who uphold, sacrifice, servitude and obedience as the philosophical ideal by subordinating their citizens to their State, race, class, ethnic group or God.
D S A Murray, England

America appears to be a mass of contradictions. "The land of the free" has some of the most punitive laws against personal liberty in some states yet is surprisingly liberal in others. Americans have been among the most polite and friendly people I have ever met and are constantly amazed at the civil freedoms we enjoy in this country. The fact that they feel obliged to state their opposition to the Bush administration (unprompted) while in conversation shows that many in the US feel a deep unease at the militaristic nature of the government. They all have said how revealing it is to see how the rest of the world's media views their country and that it has helped them get a better global perspective. As for the greatest American, I think Roosevelt was one of their better presidents (as was Clinton!). In other areas, Thomas Edison, Kinsey (for his study of sexual behaviour) and many distinguished figures in the spheres of art and music too numerous to mention!
Karl, UK

US Citizens have more political and economic freedom than virtually any other country. Because of this they are economically and culturally very rich. This causes great envy or anger amongst many citizens of countries that are less successful. The US also has one of the oldest fully functioning democracies in the world - older than many European Countries that imagine themselves to be superior.
Graham Dodgson, UK

The thing that can be said about America is, it is not perfect, but then find me a place that is. I actually bothered to travel there this year and found the people to be warm and friendly and it was a very good place to be.
, UK

Speaking as a Muslim, the Islamic world has no problems with the American people or way of life. On the contrary it is admired and copied as model system. The problem that is "anti-Americanism" is self inflicted by a pro-Zionist and blatant anti Islamic lobby. The Bush administration has polarised the world into a "pro or anti" American. A bit of fairness will go a long way to change attitudes of Muslims towards America.
Callum Savio, Bangladesh

The US has done a very good job so far and should be proud of its achievements. Of course they could have done better. But the main point for me is that if history had been different, other countries might have been the superpower instead. For example, Nazi Germany and Japan could have won the Second World War or communist Russia and China could have won the cold war. If any of these countries were in the superpower position of America today I truly do not believe our lives would be free or that the BBC could have this important and frank debate.
Keith, UK

It is inevitable that the most powerful nation on earth should close itself in protection. Perhaps we should be thankful that they are generally a force for good. They must, however, be prepared to learn about the world in which they operate - too often, it is the case that patriotism is misinterpreted by the rest of the world for aggression. It is therefore necessary that the USA understands how they are viewed, why they are viewed negatively in many parts of the world and how they can maintain an unblinkered view of the world. They will never, and this is something the rest of the world needs to learn, be popular with everyone...
Angus, London, UK

I think that America really was once the one land of freedom, but I think most Americans don't realize that the a lot of the rest of the world has caught up, and in many ways surpassed the original...And really, what kind of a democracy is a two party system?
Eric P, London, UK

I love the USA. What other country enshrines the pursuit of happiness for its citizens in its constitution? If we had such a right maybe these message boards wouldn't be so full of such miserable, jealous, nay-saying folk. Get over it, people! Be grateful that USA is the world's policeman and not red China.
Alfred, UK

Some of the nicest people I have met are Americans, but I must say that I harbour great antipathy towards "America" as it seems to breed ignorance and arrogance in equal measure. Those brave Americans who actually live elsewhere seem to quickly learn that the world does not stop at their borders, that culture has a meaning beyond burgers and fries, and that USA hegemony is not appreciated by the majority of the world. God willing, as a country they will learn more about the world before their unelected "president" destroys it.
Brian, Hong Kong

I think America has had a huge amount of unwarranted bad press over the years. Yes, they can be irksome, and yes, they produce a huge amount of atrocious television material. But for a superpower, they are incredibly benign. The other superpower of the 20th century, USSR, was the opposite - a power determined to rule over as much of the world as it could conquer, and held in check primarily by the USA (without whom most of Europe might have become part of the USSR long ago). America may not be perfect, but it is not a threat to us or any other democracy (except for their language!). So why the fuss?
Ron Levy, UK

I do worry that American culture brain washes children at an early age to consider America superior in all respects to other countries. Can you see English children clasping their hand to their heart and swearing 'God Bless Britain'? I think this attitude is at the very core the way American people and American politics interact with the world. I also think that history has taught us that no matter how strong a nation or empire becomes, eventually it collapses.
Roy Matthews, UK

I think that America's nose has grown too long and they insist on sticking it into place where it doesn't belong. Did they bother to ask the Iraqi people if they wanted 'liberating' ? Of course not - President Bush firmly believes that his opinion is the only one that has any validity and that America should rule the world. The real problem is that they are too much more powerful than anyone else and no-one is strong enough to say no.
Steve, U.K.

I think the USA conducts itself on the international stage in much the same way as Britain did 100 years ago.
Roy Matthews, UK

]]> http://omomentum.wordpress.com/?p=11 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 01:09:34 +0000 Clara Torres http://omomentum.wordpress.com/?p=11 Mais do que fazer sucesso pela trama Gossip Girl virou referência de moda - a disseminação cultural da estética do seriado é penetrante, comercial e totalmente notável.

O programa é mais do que uma série sobre estudantes de uma escola privada da elite. Ë também a apresentação de um verdadeiro desfile de moda.

O extravagante guarda-roupa das estrelas tem inspirado incontáveis posts em web sites e colunas de revistas sobre as tendências em moda feminina.

Comerciantes, estilistas e consultores de tendências afirmam que “Gossip Girl” é uma das maiores influências em como as jovens compram.

Apesar de a série ter tido índice regular de audiência, em termos estilísticos o seriado “pode bem ser a maior influência no mercado cultural jovem,” afirmam os consultores de tendências.

O programa tem dado um inesperado apelo de massa para artigos de consumo aristocráticos como blazers emplumados, camisas pólo sobrepostas e kilts (saias escocesas). Quando dias mais frios se aproximarem este outono nos EUA, alguns empresários prevêem uma grande procura por suéteres, meias no joelho e botas altas.

O seriado mais interessante que vi nos últimos tempos foi – sem dúvida - Gossip Girl, uma série de livros escritos por Cecily von Ziegesar que e conta a história da vida glamurosa de adolescentes nova-iorquinos.

A historia é narrada por uma misteriosa blogueira que conta todos os detalhes do dia a dia dos personagens em seu blog- eis o porquê do nome – tudo gira em torno das fofocas.

No Brasil estreou em 8 de novembro de 2007 na Warner Channel