[Skywalk]

Honestly though, that's not what people fear from American culture, and most people who say that are among the few in their nations uttering such statements.

Ask yourself THIS question: Why does a Muslim "conservative" fear American culture? Is it because of porn, or is it because women might become equal partners in society? Is it gangsta rap or the idea that a theocratic system of government will not hold up with Americanized youth?

Why do youth in Iran embrace America? Because of porn? LOL I don't think so. Why did Burmese rebels cheer for the fall of Saddam? Because they know that America was taking down a dictator and wish that we'd help them. They were realistic that we won't, but they appreciated the meaning of our actions.

Even Hollywood movies are not ALL junk. After all, Gladiator successfully transmitted ideas like loyalty and honor to millions of viewers. M. Night Shyalaman makes movies about faith and finding your place in this world.

Yes, a lot is junk. But to overlook the APPEAL of American culture and merely pick out the horrid aspects(really, isn't American porn far more tame than German anyway?) is to completely ignore the appeal of freedom, creativity and the importance of the individual.

For every Britney Spears there's a modest Michelle Branch. For every Don Simpson-type producer there's a sincere artist or defender of liberty.

[melsec]

I agree with the majority of what you have said and once again you really need to have a look at what is pop culture and what is the ture heart of American culture and where that comes from.

Why did Muslims fear American culture - because of the moral force behind it. Why have many gone from fear to loathing and hate because they do see America as morally bankrupt (I am not saying I agree with that). The fundy Muslims mistakenly beleived that what they saw and heard through American pop culture was a true representation of what Amercia had become.

I am able to compare the level of vulgarity of American v's German porn.:)