This evening I made my way down to LSE to see the BBC's former North American editor, Justin Webb in a conversation with another British journalist, Kirsty Young (who was wearing awesome shoes I could never pull off). I regularly read Justin's blog over the last few years until he moved back to England for another BBC gig. Overall, I found the conversation really interesting. It is very interesting to hear one's nation analyzed by an outsider. Overall, I agreed with most of his points, though I don't think the title of his lecture really factored in: "Why I grew to love America and you should too."
But then I guess, I don't understand America anymore than Justin does. Living outside the country makes me analyze America more than I do when I'm home. Because of the distance, it's easier and less personal. However, like him I see the complexity and diversity within America. And I think that diversity is something that's really hard for the rest of the world to truly grasp.
Also, the other lecture at LSE that night that two of my friends attended was about the successes of the UN. A lecture that was probably much more relevant to my course. OH WELL
JEALOUS - was Justin Webb all you thought he would be in person? And I obv didnt attend the lecture, but I agree. I was having this conversation today with someone - that no matter how proud and American we consider ourselves, most Americans still identify with their cultural background, and everyone's is different (just look at our friend group). That def puts us in a unique position in the world, as i'm sure you're especially seeing now that you are outside of the country.
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