Editors at Issues and Insights explain why they have mixed feelings about foreign visitors’ reactions to World Cup soccer in America.
It’s heartening to see foreign soccer fans, especially the Europeans, marvel at their U.S. discoveries. They’ve been awed by Buc-ee’s, Waffle House, and Bass Pro Shops, the best examples of Americana. But what we’re seeing also makes us wonder how long America will still be America.
“Soccer fans like Freddy from Germany are embracing U.S. culture as they crisscross the country — and going viral,” says Danielle Shapiro of the Manhattan Institute.
“Thousands of Europeans are seeing more of America this summer than many New York Times staffers ever will,” tweets Jimmy G.
Germans and Scots are singing “American Pie” while the English sing “Sweet Caroline” at a … Texas rodeo. …
… It must be shocking for the visitors who have relied on the American legacy media to form their opinions to find that the U.S. is mighty diverse and much more than Manhattan, Boston, Los Angeles, San Francisco and other elitist Democrat-dominated burgs. Our heartland, that sneered-at flyover country, is vibrant, rich in culture, ever welcoming, overflowing with enterprise.
While the foreigners’ instant affection of uniquely American customs and attractions is gratifying, we still have some uneasiness. The summer soccer “mania” sweeping through the country — “everyone’s talking about the World Cup” – feels as if it might inspire a wave of “we should be more like Europe” propositions that are frequently voiced, especially from the political left.
Chris Arnade sums up many Americans’ Europe envy when he writes in the Free Press that “The U.S. emphasizes material wealth, opportunity, and individual liberty, while Europe places more value on community health, shared resources, and a sense of place.”
In other words that doesn’t sound so comforting but more accurately describes the situation: Europe had dedicated itself to socialism, requiring everyone, whether they wish to or not, to be part of the commune that is doomed to fail.
