This is a second page of your comments

America is dammed if we do and dammed if we don't Gerod Wattier, Carnation, USA

It seems in today's world America is dammed if we do and dammed if we don't. Given a choice I would rather be dammed for doing nothing. I support America withdrawing from all world bodies, military alliances, and bringing all our forces home. If would be far cheaper for the American taxpayer and we wouldn't waste the precious blood of our boys. Being involved in the world gives us nothing but grief. Lets see how long before the world falls apart and starts begging us to save them from the next Hitler, Stalin, or whatever madman that comes along. This time I hope we have the sense to ignore your pleas.
Gerod Wattier, Carnation, USA

A welcome and soothing development. Open and frank debates is the surest way of keeping such anger at the superpower in check and also the arbitrariness of a world policeman we so badly need 'clipped'.
Joseph Aggrey, Accra-Ghana

A more humble, non-military based perspective is needed from US Rob, KL, Malaysia

A more humble, non-military based perspective is needed from US - military might does not mean that US is the 'model-society' which it often seems to wish to portray. Expressing might through military is the imperial way - Americas global role should be to set the example in democracy and peace.
Rob, KL, Malaysia

America's role is to give the world some country to complain about until China reaches critical mass and takes its place in the world as a superpower. Then the world will want the US to protect it from the totalitarian monster.
Steve, Chicago, USA

America thinks she can solve all the problems using its military or economic power but she can never get success. Problems are solved by sincere efforts. There should not be any greed or selfishness but she always looks for her benefit. She will remain as Michael Moore said "this country of mine, which is known for bringing sadness and misery to places around the globe."
Kapil Gdara, Jaipur, India

Show me a nation with a spotless record Mike Bell, Bath, UK

It saddens me to see so many Europeans and Americans at daggers-drawn on this page. The USA is, surely, neither absolutely good nor absolutely evil. Certainly it acts in it's own interests, but which nation doesn't? Unquestionably it makes some mistakes (the war in Iraq being a shining example - and a mistake which our government shares) but, again, show me a nation with a spotless record? The Germans? The French? The Chinese? The fact remains that, if there is to be a world superpower, I'd rather have the Yanks than any of the alternatives.
Mike Bell, Bath, UK

So many contradictions. If America is that independent and self-reliant, why does it have to plunder the world's oil to keep going? It also needs a steady stream of working-age immigrants to maintain economic growth, and it filters out those it doesn't want. Finally, it encourages hysterical nationalism in order to maintain a sense of superiority. American altruism is a disturbing illusion.
David, Herts, England

Zachery (below) said "You could not even boycott us if you tried!" Exactly so. That is why America is an imperial power. Once upon a time communities could furnish their own needs. American goods have always been accompanied by the American gun. Which was first varies from place to place. In most of the continental USA, the gun came first. Come on Zachary, the US lands were looted from their native inhabitants. And the USA has continued in the same way. I guess that's why many Americans can't even understand why Iraqis, who might have hated Saddam Hussein, would want to drive them out as a foreign invader. You don't have to own the world to be an imperial power; you just have to control it. Please see the Roman empire.
Richard, Canterbury, UK

Without America many nations will literally grind to a halt John Patrick Tindana, Accra, Ghana

In every age and time there arises a superpower; call it a kingdom or empire. The Greeks, Romans and the Babylonians had their turn. Today, America is enjoying the prestigious position of a superpower, which is the ambition of every nation. I believe, looking at the aids granted Africa and some Asian countries, that without America many nations will literally grind to a halt. Of course, as a human establishment, there are some American policies that may not go down with all; but we cannot be oblivious to the significant contribution of America towards achieving world peace. May America live long
John Patrick Tindana, Accra, Ghana

The American phenomenon is unique and therefore defies classification in familiar terms. The experiment which started over two hundred years ago is still in progress and the jury on its success is still out but there are many encouraging signs. On the other hand, there are many around the globe who are horrified that it rejects their view of life and threatens to infect their world with its own.
Mark, USA

Is America really a super power? America uses 45% of the worlds gasoline with less than 1% of its population, the Arabic countries control about 80% of the worlds oil with one quarter of Americas population. Cut off the oil and America falls on its knees. What makes a country a superpower?
Peter, Germany

The world today is ruled not by governments but by corporations Margot Fraser, Washington

Many of us in the USA are saddened, shamed and deeply angered by the actions of our current non-elected administration. Yet it is obvious that all the problems did not begin in 2000, or for that matter, in 1000. It is also clear that the world today is ruled not by governments but by corporations. It has been said that eternal vigilance is the price of liberty. Obviously we have not been paying attention. What the world needs is not a superpower but a unity of nations and peoples capable, informed and able to control the beast we have created.
Margot Fraser, Washington, USA

America can defend itself in whichever way it sees fit of course. We can't stop it, in much the same way that Britain was deaf to complaints during the days of our own empire. Power does breed arrogance, but why bother complaining about it? It's the facile and empty culture of greed and self-promotion most people are offended by if they were honest, not the foreign policy.
Chas Knight, Duxford, UK

America has two roles to fit it's split personality. One is benefactor to the world, as Americans are as good hearted and generous people as you can find. Sadly, our second role is corporate imperialist - to "win" the cold war we made a Faustian deal with corporations, expanding their power to where they largely own our leadership and media. Corrupt politicians talk of the ideals of freedom and democracy while acting to ruthlessly smash global barriers to expanding corporate power. We prefer to do this peaceably, cracking open countries with the IMF, World Bank, and the WTO. We did this peaceably in Argentina, are doing it quietly in Venezuela, and did it violently in Iraq. The American people are also victims - our environmental laws, social programs, and worker's rights are all being dismantled to maximise our corporate profits. Hopefully this November the people in the USA will rise up and start voting our corrupt politicians out of office and elect those that more closely reflect the decent and generous people that we really are.
Dave, Oregon, USA

I have always been very pro-USA Malcolm, Newcastle, UK

I wonder how different the responses would be if we separated our feelings for the USA and our feelings towards Bush. I have always been very pro-USA, and I have thought up until the last few months that they did far more good than bad. I can even accept that the Iraqi abuse is due to a rotten element of the US and UK armies. However the Bush administration's opinion on human rights in Guantanamo Bay leaves me in sorrow. I'm looking forward to being pro USA again when the next administration takes over and goes back to the USA being one of the moral lights of the world
Malcolm, Newcastle, UK

Give China about fifteen years and we will once again have two military and economic superpowers. Then all you Europeans can stop whining about the US. Sorry France, but the EU will never be a military and economic superpower. Its constant infighting, incompetent militaries (save the UK) and inability to tackle problems in its own backyard, such as the Balkans, show a total lack of leadership. Chirac may complain about despotic regimes, nukes in North Korea and Iran but as soon as the US takes action he screams bloody murder.
Christopher Dombek, Vienna, Virginia, USA

With the military and economic power that the US holds, it is irresponsible for America to make global decisions without global consent. Believe me, the US has enough problems to tackle within it's own borders. To start wars outside of these borders is not only arrogant globally, but insulting to the American people who suffer without assistance.
Christopher Borycheski, Toronto, Canada

You think America was born with this so called power? We were once a group British colonies who fought tooth and nail for freedom and picked ourselves up by our own bootstraps. Since then we may have made mistakes along the way but our leaders like yours are human and prone to such mistakes. We are the shining example of a fledgling third world country full of outcasts rising to the top and staying there as long as we can. We have spawned some of the greatest minds of our generation and we are not quite done yet.
Sean, USA

Much of the bombast coming out of the United States is a direct response to the ignorance that is constantly directed at us Shawn, Washington, DC, USA

What many people don't understand is that much of the bombast coming out of the United States is a direct response to the ignorance and hatred that is constantly directed at us. If you don't like the way the US sees the world, take a more balanced and open-minded approach when discussing your concerns with us. People don't react kindly to childish and shallow stereotypes being thrown at them. Though the idea is to make us feel bad, it actually makes us feel superior.
Shawn, Washington, DC, USA

I am hoping that the US will become isolationist after the elections and withdraw to our own shores; although I realize this will not happen. My opinion is the US is run by lobbyists who buy my representatives vote. If you wish to know who pays the lobbyists just look at the past residents of the world trade centre. You will note many are European, Japanese, middle eastern, American and others; all movers and shakers of the world economy.
Loren, Los Angeles USA

I notice most of the positive statements on this board are from Americans (though Canada is well represented, our closest neighbour). And considering our consistent extension of help and goodwill worldwide and our willingness to go into hostile environments sacrificing OUR soldiers' lives for the good of the WORLD, I find most of the comments out there despicable... Today's terrorists are evil murderers who want power and non-Muslims DEAD. When they show up in your backyard, don't call us.
John, Baltimore, MD, USA

Our role is larger than we would like for it to be Greg Burton, Atlanta, GA USA

I love these comments about China surpassing the US as a superpower. Whatever America's faults, we don't run over our own citizens with tanks merely for speaking their minds. Our role is larger than we would like for it to be militarily. Believe me, the American troops that stood on the front line protecting Western Europe for 50 years against Communist expansion would much rather have been at home.
Greg Burton, Atlanta, GA USA

We (the USA) are the most generous nation in the world, in terms of coming to the rescue of others. Whether it's humanitarian aid, military assistance, economic bailout, we are there for the world. We are a multi-cultural nation, welcoming others with open arms, refugees from the former republic of Yugoslavia or asylum seekers from Africa... What about the French and Germans?
James , NY,NY

Sadly, America is the world's only superpower. We have now reached a stage where there are American military sites on every continent, even though the major threat of the Soviet Union has now passed. The Americans could pack up their bases in Europe and let a European force be responsible to and for European security, but they won't. Just remember, the Americans never go home.
Mike, Brisbane, Australia

To Mike from Brisbane who said, "The Americans could pack up their bases in Europe and let a European force be responsible to and for European security, but they won't. Just remember, the Americans never go home." I say tell that to the Germans. Seems we're withdrawing 2 Divisions from their country-and moreover, they aren't too thrilled about it.
Paul Christopher, Temple Hills, MD, USA

To Mike, Brisbane, Australia:
We will always leave when asked. We left the Philippines when asked. We would gladly leave Europe or any other part of the world but American forces and largess are sometimes resented but often desired.
Frank, Pittsuburgh, USA

The USA is not the only nation that helps others in times of need N Edwards, New Brunswick, Canada

Rather than asking why many see them as an imperialist power and listening for the response, many Americans assume that the rest of the world is "jealous" and wants to be like them. Therein lies your problem! While there are great things about the USA, the rest of us DO NOT want to be you. The USA is not the only nation that helps others in times of need. The US turned to other nations like Canada during 9/11 and we were there for you. If there seems to be more pressure on the US to help, perhaps it is because it has more to offer. Good will towards others in time of need is paramount, but it should not have to come with a price tag.
N Edwards, New Brunswick, Canada

If America has this so-called "Empire" what, pray tell, is it doing for US?? Europe plundered, looted and enslaved its colonies. But what is the USA getting for all this so-called Empire? The last time I look gas prices were way up, the dollar way down, the trade imbalance soaring, the national debt soaring, hundreds of our servicemen are being killed and maimed, and if Bush is reaping any political advantage, it's not showing in any polls I'm seeing. We need to turn Iraq into a new Belgian Congo c. 1900. Then you can accuse of being a imperial power.
Peter C. Kohler, Washington DC USA

The United States is the greatest nation-state since the days of the Roman Empire. Even Great Britain couldn't imagine having such a vast empire at its height as the United States does now. We are the world's superpower, no argument, no question. The United States is the champion of Freedom and liberty of the world because we promote individualism and reliance only upon ourselves. We are an Empire not as great as Rome was, but we are not going force our will and our way of life on no country.
Paul Weber, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA

Americans learn from the time we're little that we are number one Kym, The Hague, The Netherlands

I'm an American living abroad, and I can assure you that Americans learn from the time we're little that "we are number one"; that we live in "God's country"; that the best ideas come from us; that the only truly free nation is our own. These "truths" are not self-evident to anyone who has lived or travelled abroad. America has been fortunate through chance and resources, not because we have some sort of moral destiny to greatness.

In terms of being called on for help, why shouldn't people ask us for help when we are the wealthiest nation in the world and the user of a disproportionate amount of the world's resources? Would you ask your poor brother or your rich uncle for help in times of crisis? And why do we help? Because it gives us political advantage: not because we are a nation of altruists. That's ok, but let's be honest about our motives and who we are.
Kym, The Hague, The Netherlands

Let's consider America our God. God is love. Once we discover that our God also hates, we will stop having faith in his justice. Thus, he will perish but we will survive. I hope that America will remain faithful to its ideals.
Naceur, Tataouine, Tunisia

If all of you do not like us then stop using our products and technology. You could not even boycott us if you tried!
Zachery, Atlanta, GA

Dear Zachery, Atlanta, GA: Please read the labels on your products and technology and see where they are made.
Prashant, Toronto, Canada

As you drive on your highway, in your gas guzzling SUV, to your multi-national employer, do you ever wonder how important the rest of the world is to America? Maybe if the rest of the world decided tomorrow to kick out all the US multi-nationals and stop drinking Coca Cola, eating MacDonalds extra. Maybe the rest of the world could get together -China, South America, India, Africa with the help of the oil rich Middle East- we could ask Europe and Russia for a hand and who knows!!!! Let's just admit that you need us as much as we need you, America. Because my fairy tale may come true one day.
Carmela , Johannesburg, South Africa

Collective goodwill is what gives long-term security H Campbell, Scotland

America certainly cannot be defined as an Empire in the true sense of the word, not in the same way Britain was. Britain matured in its vision regarding its empire and carved a role which has ended up in a collective commonwealth. The US will no doubt learn from history from the "Mother" country that all dynasties fall at some point and that this collective goodwill is what gives long-term security. Americans should take this role-mediator and counsellor as has the UK.
H Campbell, Scotland

Puerto Rico is a colony of the United States since 1898, when we were bombed and invaded by the American Navy and Army. Even as Barbados and Trinidad-Tobago, Jamaica and other island colonies of European Empires were "decolonised" after the Second World War, Puerto Rico remained subject to the "plenary powers" of the US Congress. When will Puerto Rico deserve sovereignty? The Imperial Americans will have to say.
Jeramfel Cordero-Fernández, San Juan, Puerto Rico

"You can always count on Americans to do the right thing, in the end"-Winston Churchill. Hopefully we'll prove that in November.
Conor, Las Vegas, USA

I like America's global role politically, militarily, etc but my quarrel is with their cultural policy. I want them to respect the cultural plurality of the world.
Isaac Alaware, Bayelsa Nigeria

To be the perfect example of what we don't want be.
Kostas Nikopoulos, Patra, Greece

Over the centuries we have enjoyed a tremendous heritage of friendship & goodwill, peace and stability with our American neighbours. There is no other nation in the history of the world that has done so much for so many around the world at enormous expense to themselves. I would rather have the US as a global hegemony than a communist state.
Janet Siebert, Edmonton, Canada

The home of the brave should be brave enough to take the flak it deserves CN, UK

So predictable: the second Europeans dare to criticise the USA's self-imposed role as "globocop", this page is full of Americans bleating about "what they did for us" in WW2. Sadly, not true. America only joined WW2 after it was attacked on its own soil, and would have left the rest of us to burn if that hadn't happened. The home of the brave should be brave enough to take the flak it deserves.
CN, UK

To CN, UK. Long before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour that brought the US into WW2, Europe (the UK) were helped by the US, ever heard of the Lend Lease plan? Also, what about WW1? If it hadn't been for the help and deaths of US forces in France the Germans would have succeeded in their offensive in 1918. If you are going to quote history at least get it right. I, for one, would love the US to re-adopt the isolationist policy that they had prior to WW2 and let the rest of the world get on with it. Sadly
Andy Parsons, UK ex pat, GA US

I don't know what America's global role should be, but I can help our critics understand one undeniable fact. We were the outcasts back in our homelands, and we are the outcasts now. Our country was born out of resistance and rebellion. By nature, we do not like being told what to do, especially from those we broke away from. Alliances are fine. International institutions are fine. But try to boss us around (ICC, World Court, telling us who to vote for, what domestic laws to pass or abolish) and we will do the exact opposite...not on any premise of right or wrong, but because someone tried to order us. We're fighters. We resist. That's who we are.
Christopher Skeet, Chicago, USA

In the long run the world would be a safer place if America just withdrew inside its borders, adopted an isolationist stance and left us all alone. The US government is run by puritanical hypocrites who abhor the killing and torture of innocent civilians but practise it themselves.
Brian Bailey, Winterthur, Switzerland

I work in an office building in the immediate outskirts of Washington, DC. My building is next door to a US immigration processing office. When I arrive at work every morning, there is a line two to three abreast wrapping around the building more than a block long. Every morning. The line is made up of hundreds of people from every corner of the globe, patiently waiting in line for the doors to open, clutching their paperwork. To me, that line says it all.
Vin, Washington, DC USA

Like all countries, the US embodies good and bad parts Nigel Cubbage, Redhill, Surrey

Like all countries, the US embodies good and bad parts. The good parts right now are its people; the bad, its politicians. So very different from here?
Nigel Cubbage, Redhill, Surrey

What's an "honest" effort got to do with it?
Bob Guy, Jamestown RI USA

It is interesting to note nearly all the "positive" comments about the US originate within the US, either by Americans or ex-pats. From the rest of the world's perspective the US is blinded by its own light, a convert to its own religion and a danger to us all.
James Ainslie, London

If the "media" had existed in its present form during the last century, the same things would have been seen to have been said about the British Empire. If America wants to rule the world with open military might as well financial thuggery, then it must accept that everyone will dislike them: that is, until the next superpower takes over. Which may not be too long when one looks at where China is today and its street level involvement in the US and European economies.
Derek Betson, Switzerland

Who else is going to take the role of superpower other than the U.S? Russia, even though a giant nation, can barely keep its own population from starving. China refuses personal freedoms on a large scale. Britain, although very helpful, cannot be expected to take care of the world's crisis as their nation is small. France only looks out for itself and lacks any sort of will to help others in their times of need. That leaves only the U.S. So far, I'd say we have helped many more people than harmed.
Ryan Gardiner, Shrewsbury, USA

America is a superpower made up of a multi-cultural and multi-national population Calvin Brodus, Long Beach, CA, USA

America is a superpower made up of a multi-cultural and multi-national population. Where else in history has this ever occurred? The British hegemony over the world was always by whites against others. The same with the French. But now, this new superpower has blacks, Latinos, Jews, Muslims, and others taking part. It doesn't get any better than this.
Calvin Brodus, Long Beach, CA, USA

America should indeed be the world leader, and use its power and influence to make the world a better and safer place. Unfortunately it lacks a truly great leader, and with its dangerous policy on Israel and the Middle East is in danger of achieving the opposite.
Nigel, Bath UK

You have it wrong the world press and 24 hour news are the world's new superpower. They not only report on wars now but start then. They cause more hate and disorder that any single country ever could.
John H. Moore, LA, CA, USA

Right now, the U.S is involved in so many humanitarian missions, along with rebuilding an entire nation in the hope that democracy will flourish. Meanwhile, Europe chides America for doing the right thing. If the French and Germans really wanted to get back on top, maybe they should stop being armchair know-it-alls and step up to the plate.
Tony Siragusa, NJ, USA

If only the people of America could see the price that the rest of the world has to pay for the affluence and power their country wields maybe something good could emerge from its imperial tendencies. Americans do not seem to have hard hearts - their politicians however are a different kettle of fish....
Linda Ashford, Birmingham UK

The world looks up to America to lead by example which should be reflected in its actions Sarat Menon, Aalst

America can and must use its undisputed role as the world's only superpower, to make the world a better and safer place. America would be better advised to learn from the lessons of the past. No superpower in the past has ever perpetuated its rule by unbridled use of power and arrogance. The world looks up to America to lead by example which should be reflected in its actions. Consensus and fair negotiations should replace arrogance and arm twisting.
Sarat Menon, Aalst, Belgium

Jealousy is a very ugly thing. And that is what the rest of the world feels when they think of our country.
Sarah, Chicago, IL

I hate to disappoint Sarah, Chicago, IL but I don't feel jealous when I think of the US. I think of uncontrollable gun crime and homicides, the millions under the poverty line left to fend for themselves as their government turns a blind eye, the unparalleled ignorance of world affairs, geography and history.

But the first thing that comes to mind when I think of America, is the sheer arrogance of it, declaring that the rest of the world's opinion matters little and that actually we're all really envious of the so-called "American Dream", where you have to be a multi-millionaire to fund your campaign for the presidency. No, I'm not jealous of America - I'm just glad I'm not American.
Michael, Glasgow, UK

The intentions of the United States changed with the Administration currently holding office Mark Phillipps, Brisbane

The intentions of the United States changed with the Administration currently holding office. Under Clinton, America tried to dominate using subtle economic and diplomatic methods. Under Bush, America tries to dominate through forceful threats and military might. All countries want to dominate others, but the US is the only one which really can.
Mark Phillipps, Brisbane, Australia

To be nagged to death by the rest of the world.
Tim Renfro, Dallas, Texas, USA

The United State, is the bringer of peace to the troubled nations of the World and with that peace comes a very high price, in the form of forced US culture.
Steve G, Gateshead UK

Here we go again. Everyone complain about the big bad USA. France and Germany get off of your butts and send your troops to help the Sudanese. Be leaders and quit complaining about us.
Edy Wheeler, USA

Isn't it strange how someone's view can be so much different than someone else's depending on which side of the ocean you happen to be on? Europeans seem to think that Americans are imperialists and Americans tend to think that Europeans are lazy and don't understand the nature of their enemy until he's at their throat.
John, Phoenix, USA

We are often the first to be blamed for any problem anywhere in the world Justin Hughes, Tacoma, USA

Being the world's richest, most powerful, and most influential country, we are often the first to be blamed for any problem anywhere in the world. Even if we had nothing to do with it. And every good thing we do goes largely unmentioned in the world media.
Justin Hughes, Tacoma, USA

I'm fed-up to the back teeth with people whining about how bad America is and how evil America's influence on the world is. And most of this from people who couldn't even point to the USA on a map, let alone claim to have been here to see it for themselves. As many mistakes as America makes, it usually learns from them and gets on with trying to improve itself ... rather than reliving "glories" from centuries long-past.
Ian, Brit in USA

When I'm struggling in my day-to-day affairs I never stop to think to myself "wow, I live in a super power". The ideas people have about America and Americans are almost always fantasy.
Kevin Baca, California, USA

Many people complain that the US is a superpower and interferes in others problems. Why not? As long as the US lets in millions of immigrants and refugees a year why should we not be involved? Until people stop coming here for help the US will continue to be a superpower. We deserve that right. As an American I can say that it gets very trying listening to complaints as other nations move into our homes and take our money. If you can't take care of yourself you need to stop complaining.
Nissa, St Paul, USA

We are damned if we do and damned if we don't when it comes to international affairs Aaron, Georgia

We are damned if we do and damned if we don't when it comes to international affairs. It's unfortunate that the world community views us with such disdain. However, the American people are much more resilient and cohesive than other nations believe. Remember that we are a land of underdogs and outcasts. We aren't going anywhere. Go ahead and insult us all you want. We can take it.
Aaron, Georgia, USA

Every empire has made its marked on the world stage. America is no different in pursuing her goals and interests in the name of freedom and democracy. But America should also remember, sooner or later the fate of this modern empire will not be any different, before it conquers the world.
Siraj S, Auckland, New Zealand

America's global role is to be a punching bag. Our size and power allows everyone else to ignore their own internal problems while they cry and whine about our every move. We are not a lazy child who has inherited this position from a rich benefactor; we worked hard for hundreds of years to get where we are now while saving a lot of other nations along the way. Don't blame us for being too powerful, blame yourselves for being weak.
Kevin, Chicago, IL

It's clear what the rest of the world expects America's role to be; they expect it to do what it's told. Which usually equates to: Give us large amounts of money but stay out of our affairs. No wonder Americans feel a bit hard done by!
Dave Andrews, Basingstoke, UK

I disagree that America is the world's sole superpower. While this is irrefutably the case militarily, I think the EU and Japan are also economic superpowers. Force is an outdated method of conflict resolution. The US should quit messing with the Iraqis, and concentrate on economic issues.
Peter Bolton, US

To imply that America is imperial is to suggest that we are forcefully exporting and imposing itself on unwilling nations worldwide. The fact is, nations worldwide can't get enough of what America has to offer and are importing Americana as fast as it comes out. Want to know who's making America an empire? Look in the mirror.
Shane Watts, USA

For those of you that resent us for having so much power, we resent you for not having it Joshua Splinter, USA

For those of you that resent us for having so much power, we resent you for not having it. We are expected to come to the rescue when it is deemed fit for others' causes, but then deemed imperialistic if we move for our own causes. There's a double standard taken when judging America - just the same as we are often accused for the rest of the world.
Joshua Splinter, USA

Look at history! All the historic superpowers had their time and then vanished. America's era is on a downward slope. The big question is: who will be next? As a European living in the USA, I see many things that need attention within the USA. Maybe the US should address their domestic issues first before pointing fingers at other countries... they are only a superpower in a military prospective. What happened to leading by example and moral leadership? Be humble and look at your own faults first.
J Reynders, Atlanta, GA

Like all great empires of throughout history, the USA has made mistakes. The difference, however, is that America tries to make amends for those mistakes. It is not always easy to live next to a superpower, but I would rather be America's neighbour than just about anyone else.
Rob M, Calgary, Canada

Only time will reveal America's role in the coming years J Toth, Kitchener

America is an enigma. Noble in purpose and intent, there is no equal in world history to "the American Dream". Despite this however, Americans and their quest for "the better life" have caused much of the suffering in the world today. Does the freedom of a few justify the misery of the rest? Or will that freedom inspire others to reach for a more noble destiny? Only time will reveal America's role in the coming years.
J Toth, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada

I vividly remember the candidate George W Bush talking about America's role in the world. Being "humble", whilst "leading by example", were his main words. Once elected, he set to renege on America's international commitment, to bully and threaten, to attack Iraq and insult those who queried the reasons.. Bush's America will accept rules only if they apply to others and not to itself, and it despises any other views than those of its rulers. America today is not the champion of freedom or democracy. America today is a big, bad schoolyard bully.
Simon, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Nowadays the US has a striking resemblance to the Roman Empire. In fact the US is the 21st century's Roman Empire: rushing to conquer the world in the name of freedom and democracy while having a downslide towards complete - economic and moral - fall.
Mary McCannon, Budapest, Hungary

America is a mixture of every race, religion and culture Beaux Vizena, Tema

I am an American living in Ghana and have worked all over the Middle East, India and Africa and I have seen first-hand the good things that America has done for this planet. There has been nowhere that I have travelled that I do not hear people say they want to live in the USA. America is a mixture of every race, religion and culture. It is the land of immigration and opportunity. Seems like a lot of folks have forgotten WW2 and what we did for Western Europe. Many condemn our actions in the Middle East, but at least we are making honest efforts to straighten things up. Sure America has its faults, but when you look at the big picture, these faults are very minute.
Beaux Vizena, Tema, Ghana

Maybe they're the sole superpower now, but simple market forces will ensure this is not the case forever. If the US starts to abuse its position and goods/services/support are available from other countries, then the US may find itself losing its position. At one point the UK was the superpower and had its empire. This role was changed when the world began to reject this situation. The US is likely to find the same response if it is not very careful.
Norma, Newcastle, UK

WW2 played a major role in increasing US influence around the world, and until recently, US hegemony was predominantly economic in nature, with the US dollar as a global currency reserve. Now that the burgeoning middle class of the developing world is starting to exert its economic influence, and with alternate currencies such as the euro showing signs of strength, US economic hegemony will slowly begin weakening. The current actions are as much a clear sign of insecurity and fear of its future role in an increasingly multi-polar world.
Tanmay Kudyadi, Mumbai, India

In good times we're the ones you hate and despise. In bad times we're the ones you can turn to for help. It's that simple.
Bob, Chesapeake, VA

Sole superpower now, but it won't last. China should catch up within the next 20 years or so, and eventually surpass the US in terms of economic and military influence in the world. I hope they do a better job at leading the world than the arrogant, hypocritical folks in Washington these days.
Bernd, Norway

America sees itself as the peak of civilization. While it is true they have the strongest military and a powerful economy, they are only interested in what affects them, and their ability to generate more business and make larger profits. Sadly, I don't believe America knows the meaning of the word sacrifice, in as much as it will never let friendship allow it to accept a deal in someone else's favour.

Taking over other countries means taking on their problems and having to spend money to solve them, for little return Peter, Essendon

Other nations must help themselves because you cant rely on America, unless there is an underlying incentive for them that remains unstated. I don't think they are interested in an empire other than of the business nature. After all, taking over other countries means taking on their problems and having to spend money to solve them, for little return.

Remember America has millions of citizens living on or under the poverty line. For the worlds richest country that remains a true indicator on how they value life or don't value life, of even their own people.
Peter, Essendon, Australia

Being American is not a colour, a race, a religion, or even an ethnicity. It's a state of mind, a loosely formed coalition of morals and ideals brought over by the unwanted children of every country on earth. I don't know what America's global role should be, but I can help our critics understand one undeniable fact. We were the outcasts back in our homelands, and we are the outcasts now.

Our country was born out of resistance and rebellion, as out of it was born every single one of our democratic institutions. By nature, we do not like being told what to do, especially from those we broke away from. Alliances are fine. International institutions are fine.

But try to boss us around (ICC, World Court, telling us who to vote for, what domestic laws to pass or abolish) and we will do the exact opposite...not on any premise of right or wrong, but because someone tried to order us. We're fighters. We resist. That's our nature. That's who we are.
Christopher Skeet, Chicago, USA

America's role in the world has and will continue to have a two-sided mirror image: Inside the USA, Americans see themselves as patriots and defenders of democracy and freedom throughout the world. Outside the USA, they are seen as a nation which has little or no understanding of other cultures and uses military/economic muscle to dominate world affairs. Colin, Canadian in Taiwan
Colin Lamont, Taipei, Taiwan

The rest of the world should be thankful that the US embraces democracy and doesn't have aspirations to be the next Roman Empire Carl, Minneapolis, USA

How could anyone even suggest that the US is imperialistic? If that were the case, we would have offered statehood within the US to the eastern European countries that instead recently joined the EU. The current anti-American sentiment being displayed in Europe is nothing more than resentfulness at their own impotence. If the US were set on conquering the world, our military capabilities are so overwhelming that it could be done in short order and on a global scale. The rest of the world should be thankful that the US embraces democracy and doesn't have aspirations to be the next Roman Empire.
Carl, Minneapolis, USA

America is an Imperial power. It's just that we fought the battles in the boardrooms instead of the battlefields. Just because we didn't plant our flag on another country's soil doesn't mean we don't use every country in the world as a market for our products while we buy their natural resources. We conquered the planet a long time ago, and the whole world is starting to see we did it right under their nose.
Mike Stinnett, Virginia, USA

Only one role - to spread neo-colonialism. It's a highly self-centred and mean nation.
Gauri Sharma, India

The U.S. has become the centre of the planet, but it has lost the goodwill it once universally had. The US needs to see that what is bad for other countries is bad for her, that what is good for other nations is good for her as well. We are one world, one planet, one nation. I would hate for China, or any Muslim nation, to be the world's centre. But if America doesn't want to be what she always promised and claimed to be anymore, if she continues to sacrifice the world to her appetites for delusional power, we are all in deep jeopardy, and she along with us all.
Liz Medina, Santiago, Chile

Don't hold your breath waiting for the EU or China to surpass America in your lifetime. The United States has the institutions, history, and culture to facilitate its competitive advantage. However, recent developments such as the ICC and a succession of WTO rulings in Europe's favour prove that USA can easily be held in check. Cooperation between likeminded governments is the best any of us can hope for in the future.
Kevin Baca, California, USA

Let's not forget it was the immigrants from all nations that made up the United States looking for a better life Darlene, Rockford, USA

If it wasn't for the oppression in Europe towards the poor and middle man, America never would have been born. We fought for freedom against oppression and won, while taking it away from the people who lived here, the Indians, When asked to help we have, when asked for money we've given. When we've asked for help we've been denied. I am a proud English, Canadian, Irish, Swedish, Dutch with a touch of German American born of European immigrants.

Let's not forget it was the immigrants from all nations that made up the United States looking for a better life. This superpower has more racial mixes than any other country in the world. And for those of you that live in and condemn us, maybe you should go find another country that will tolerate your freedom of speech.
Darlene, Rockford, USA

Yes, America has helped many in their time of need, and I as an American do not begrudge that fact. However, the Hard Right Administration that currently occupies the White House acquired their power through false pretences and legal manipulation, and our involvement in Iraq started with the same type of unethical manipulations. Not only does our President act only on information that he wants to hear, rather than what he needs to hear, he also refuses to give credence to dissenting views and is apparently incapable of admitting when or where he may have been wrong.

It is these qualities- or lack thereof- that have resulted in our seriously tarnished image throughout what appears to be most of the rest of the world. I can only hope that 'we, the people', can reverse this serious and dangerous state of affairs with open and honest communication and dialogue with the rest of the world. Sincerely, Kenton Stevens Alcalde, NM, USA.
Kenton Stevens, Alcalde, NM, United States of America

The United States should keep out of other people's back yards, unless they are invited for the party. The world does not want the USA's 21st century colonialism.
Pete, USA

They want us to help them financially and militarily. Of course there are strings. There should be quote Russ, USA

The only reason why the civil war in Yugoslavia ended is because the US showed up. Not the UN, not the EU. How soon people forget. They want us to help them financially and military. Of course there are strings. There should be.
Russ, USA

God help us, to be run by a lawless, dictatorial state. You just have to look at the USA current human rights records to advocate the fact that the US are still within the wild, wild west!
Peter, Edinburgh, UK

A good study of an Empire slightly past its zenith with its inhabitants floating in the weightless arc screaming, "Why us, what did we do?" in the prelude to an uncontrolled descent.
Des Currie, Umdloti, South Africa

Every time something goes wrong with America, people will jump up and shout things like: This is the so-called democracy of America Zhou Zheng Yi, Shanghai

Nowadays everybody is blaming America for everything. It is true that America has done something wrong. But America is not about doing the right things all the time; America is about the ability to correct things once they go wrong (by means of free press and democracy).

The anti-America posts I read on BBC are very, very similar to the anti-democracy propaganda of the Chinese communist government: every time something goes wrong with America, people will jump up and shout things like: This is the so-called democracy of America. I think that is more than just biased, that is stupid.
Zhou Zheng Yi, Shanghai

Someone else take the wheel please, we are sick of driving.
Matt, New York City, USA

Although no country would benefit from a US failure in Iraq, an American success in Iraq could also have dire consequences for the rest of the world. America's ambition to bring "democracy" to Iraq, regardless of how noble the cause, had been a huge gamble for the neo-cons' foreign policy as well as a spit in the face for the UN and the rule of international law. (Bring democracy to Iraq)
Yann Chambrier, Hong Kong

The US has the greatest demand for immigration "into" the US then any country. Does any thinking person wonder why? The US has never shown interest in empire building. Confirm "one" since WW1. These claims are by people who cannot accept that some people will sacrifice themselves to do right for the benefit of others, because they won't.

The real issue is the weakness of those who turn away from those in need and the shame they need to hide from by making false claims against those who don't. This is what the US, or any leader will need to deal with. The inadequate always try to pull the successful into failure to appease their own demons.
Jim H, Sudbury, MA, USA

America is the world's only superpower because the sun set on Britain long, long ago.
Phillip, USA

Many contributors seem to follow the line that the rest of us are happy to expect the USA to act for the benefit of others but not for its own benefit. Multilateral action involving USA working with others, e.g. NATO intervention in Kosovo, is a very different thing from the unilateral moves in, let's see, Iraq, Afghanistan, Vietnam etc. This disregard for the international community and the rights, wishes and desires of the rest of the planet are what drives us to question the role of the US in the first place.
Bobby, Valencia

For 50 years the US government has sought to extend its global power, and to use that power to kill millions of innocent human beings. Hiroshima, Nagasaki (2 million), Korea (about 800,000), Indonesia (1 million), Vietnam (2 million), sanctions against Iraq (1 million), this illegal war (who knows?) and then its record in South America over several decades, East Timor and even Grenada. Maybe that is why so many 'cry and whine about our every move'.
Graham, UK

Graham's (UK) posting below - must not go unchallenged. Who were the 'one million Indonesians' that the US is suposed to have killed - and when? Equate Hiroshima / Nagasaki with the numbers of cilvilians and troops that would have been killed if the Allies had had to invade the Japanese Islands. There were two sides to the Korean War - China / North and the UN (note: not America). Iraq sanctions were put in place by the UN - not the USA acting alone. So, Graham, whilst I respect your right to free speech - it comes at the cost of personal responsibility for what you are saying. Get your facts straight.
Andy, Gloucester, UK

We are just people who live free and dream of the future Wendy Connors, Albuquerque

It is discouraging to hear the distain against America. Sometimes our leaders are not so good, but they are not the character of Americans or America. We are self-reliant, but caring. We've always been there first to offer our friendship, our wealth and our blood, if necessary, to those who have lost hope. I'm 60 years old and have never heard anyone talk of ourselves being a super power. We are just people who live free and dream of the future. If that is so wrong, then so be it. It is you who have lost the most.
Wendy Connors, Albuquerque, US

America made a choice within the last few years: when it comes to choosing between preserving a stable world order, no matter how undemocratic, or a world that is more democratic and free, but possesses a path fraught with risk, we chose the latter. Regardless who is president, this new global mission will be executed for a long time to come. Still, it would be nice if more people in Europe and Asia would trust us and root for one of the world's oldest democracies to be successful in its mission, rather than root for China, one of the worlds last communist countries and not exactly a paragon of human rights, to supplant it as the world super power.
Jonathan Navia, Boston

It is a bit of everything. It does propagate democracy and freedom to some extent, but it also carries too much of its own prejudice and self interest. If there was a contest of candidate military powers, the USA would definitely be in the top two. Other choices would be far scarier. Having said that, I believe that the US domestic and international existence is utterly flawed and this will lead to a decline of influence soon. Question is, what happens next and this seems to be the scariest question around.
Dimitris, Greece

Peter, Essendon, Australia's posting is as outrageous as it is just plain wrong. More American soldiers died to give freedom to the citizens of other countries including his own than the soldiers of any other nation by far. More American treasure has gone to rebuild other nations by far than donated by any other nation. Right now 15bn dollars is committed to help impoverished nations in Africa deal with AIDS, far more than all of the rest of the world's donations combined. America has been and still is infinitely more generous than any other nation. Ultimately, what nation doesn't act in its own self interest?
Mark, USA

Perhaps we should begin pleading donor exhaustion for some years John Muller, Du Page County

America is a logical and marvellous extension of Europe that is strengthened and renewed by periodic infusions of peoples and culture from all across the globe. It is blessed with land, food, resources, vitality, an educated citizenry, strength, and a self-correcting political system that eventually adjusts for the occasional blunder.

We have spent generations and trillions holding our shield over various parts of the world when the need was there - partly from self-interest, to be sure, but also largely from a sense of kinship and duty to those whom we've shielded rather than greed for empire. It's easy to criticize the players from comfortable seats on the sidelines. Perhaps we should begin pleading donor exhaustion for some years and let others exhaust their treasuries and political capital in trying to fill the vacuum - something that we can do without reverting to isolationism. The idea is gaining popularity over here.
John Muller, Du Page County, Illinois, USA

I do not think at all that China can lead the world better than the United States. What is their human rights record? What about democracy? I think that the US can do a better job than others. However, I am not saying that the US does not have any problem with itself. Anyway, we should appreciate the role of the US more.
F Nakamura, Japan

The Americans have been the most active and prolific terrorist state for the last fifty years. In Central- and South America they have been undermining democratic reforms and supporting dictators to maintain the interest of their corporations, nothing has changed but the scrutiny of the media. They have not changed and will not change till the world understands that they are not our friends. America has no friends - they only have interests.
Michael Cleary, Whitby Ontario Canada

We spent the whole of the 20th century rescuing and supporting others, and are now despised Kurt, Chicago

America's role in the 21st century is clear: We can count only on ourselves. No other nation will support us, even when our policies seek to lift regions mired in darkness into a brighter future of democracy. America's role is to look out for itself now. We spent the whole of the 20th century rescuing and supporting others, and are now despised. Never again!
Kurt, Chicago, IL, USA

The world will become a much safer place when President Bush is thrown out. A country with that much influence and power does not need an arrogant and dangerous man like that running the country, America will be more respected when that happens. For starters elect someone for there brains, not who their daddy is. if there ever was a war criminal he is one.
Nathan, Gold Coast , Australia

It is embarrassing to read comments from my fellow compatriots who start feeling beleaguered by the world's opinion on the current hegemonic project of the Bush administration. There was a time when the US was a country to look up to, to model, to inspire. That was before Vietnam, before secret bombings, before El Salvador, contras, coups, and the whole-sale murder of innocent people here and abroad.

But one of the great strengths of this country is its ability to change, to right itself, to rise from the ashes of its own infamy. I think the US can be the envied nation again, the place of dreams rather than nightmares. But it's going to take a movement of the will to regain the global American dream.
David Fulton, Los Angeles, California

I find it interesting that people in Britain complain about American influence, but say nothing about their own influence on the US. McDonald's and Disney may have infiltrated the globe, but BP, Shell, Cadbury-Schweppes, Scottish & Newcastle and many, many others are present throughout America. There is also an enormous cultural influence in music, television, art, etc. Even the basics of American law are closely linked to English common law. Not bad for a country a fraction of the size of the US.
Roger, Michigan, USA

The question is "What is America's role in the 21st Century?" Few have bothered to answer it. Thoughts:
(1) Ensure that the global means for stable economic interactions continue to function (by espousing trade negotiation through the WTO, championing the expansion of Free Trade practices, and supporting regional trading blocks like the EU, NAFTA, APEC/ASEAN). Trade alleviates the problems of self-sufficiency and builds ties between states.
(2) Ensure that the "rule of law", now practiced in over 70 states worldwide (up from aa mere 30 in 1945), continues to strengthen its collective roots and extends itself to other states.
(3) Ensure that the combined power of its military and those of its allies in NATO, the Pacific, and the Middle East outweighs the collective military power of other "newly emerging" blocs of states.
(4) Construct new bio-scientific technology in order to feed the expected 10 Billion humans of 2050, by way of an "Evergreen Revolution" in agriculture, and perfect Desalinization technology to alleviate the basic problems of freshwater scarcity that currently plagues over 1 billion individuals. Likewise, safeguard wild ecological zones to ensure the continued biodiversity of the planet. Any hegemon, regardless whether it was the United States, Britain, China, or India, would be wise to do the same.
Alex Wilner, Halifax, NS, Canada