Greatest Country in the World

[Hababi]

Well, choose it. Very simple. Choose which country you think is the greatest country in the world. Explain why you feel it is.

I'll create a poll with the 10 most likely answers.

[Give me Beer]

Don't make a poll and I don't think I would know what to pick anyway, since no country is without flaws, and I prefer some aspects of one country and other aspects from another. Either way, most people here are going to either name their homecountry or post something to the effect of how "their idealised country" is so great.

How can you even choose if you haven't lived in every country?

EDIT: See, that's a dumb poll, I would never choose any of the countries on there. I haven't even been to any of 'm (aside from Denmark for like, 3 hours).

[Hababi]

How can you even choose if you haven't lived in every country?

Statistics, cultural observances, reports on government etc.

IE I wouldn't choose Cina because I know that it is repressive, and has extremely poor air quality in the big cities.

[Iskandar]

I've grown to appreciate Canada, actually.

I'd HATE to live in Singapore.

[Hababi]

I've grown to appreciate Canada, actually.

Especially since the conservatives took charge, eh? ;) :D

I probably should've added Britain, Germany and France, too...

[Give me Beer]

Statistics, cultural observances, reports on government etc.

IE I wouldn't choose Cina because I know that it is repressive, and has extremely poor air quality in the big cities.

Trust me, you can't say if you like a country from such evidence. For example, Belgium would be a prime choice according to all that but I prefer Panama for most of the time but only because I actually lived there as well.

EDIT: Oh yea, and your list obviously sucks due to it having several countries that are very unlikely to get even one vote here and omitting just about all West European countries.

[Hababi]

Trust me, you can't say if you like a country from such evidence. For example, Belgium would be a prime choice according to all that but I prefer Panama for most of the time but only because I actually lived there as well.

So what did you experience living that that propelled Panama to the top choice?


I'd HATE to live in Singapore.


:lol: It's pretty close to the polar opposite of you :p

[Give me Beer]

So what did you experience living that that propelled Panama to the top choice.

People and an attitude to life I find very enjoyble. Not to mention the weather. ^_^

It's impossible to know how you're going to feel about that from reading about it, you have to have actually experienced it.

That's not to say that Panama is my favourite country, or the best one to live in ever, it's just one I happened to have experienced.

EDIT: That's not to say I like everything about Panama. I for example far prefer the cultural offer you'll find over here in Belgium to the one of Panama. As far as libraries, exhibits, concerts (they have a good Jazz scene though), festivals, culture in general goes, Belgium is far better off. The same thing goes for how the government is run. I just prefer Panamenians as people and their attitude towards life.

[Chrizzle fo' Shizzle]

Stuck between USA and Switzerland

[Iskandar]

Especially since the conservatives took charge, eh? ;) :D

They aren't that much different from the Liberals so far. Would you vote for them if you lived here?
It's pretty close to the polar opposite of you
Exactly!

[Hababi]

People and an attitude to life I find very enjoyble. Not to mention the weather. ^_^

Ah well see the weather is available in statistics form, though. Philosophy on life, not so much, but I'm wondering, what specifically about it?


Would you vote for them if you lived here?


Definitely.

[Iskandar]

Definitely.
Solely because of two or three social issues?

[Hababi]

Solely because of two or three social issues?

That's a decent part of it. Also because of Martin's legacy.

[Give me Beer]

Ah well see the weather is available in statistics form, though. Philosophy on life, not so much, but I'm wondering, what specifically about it?

The weather was more of an afterthought tho'.

I have no idea how I can explain the Panamenian mentality to someone who hasn't lived there. :) That's what I mean with you having to have lived there.

[Iskandar]

That's a decent part of it. Also because of Martin's legacy.
What about him? The Liberal party isn't Paul Martin.

What do you think of the Bloc and NDP?

[Hababi]

What about him? The Liberal party isn't Paul Martin.

Yeah, but it's just punishment, just as the Republicans were punished for Nixon.



What do you think of the Bloc and NDP?

NDP: Like them on the environment, education and health care, dislike them on their zealous nationalization ambitions and gays/abortion.

I don't like the Bloc...

[ringworm]

I didnt know this
The vast Athabasca Tar Sands give Canada the world's second largest reserves of oil behind Saudi Arabia.

[Iskandar]

NDP: Like them on the environment, education and health care, dislike them on their zealous nationalization ambitions and gays/abortion.

I don't like the Bloc...
Zealous? Hardly. The NDP are social democrats. They're very moderate left.
The vast Athabasca Tar Sands give Canada the world's second largest reserves of oil behind Saudi Arabia.
Yeah, but it's not really usable because the oil is mixed with sand or something. It'd be very expensive and difficult to extract.

[Hababi]

Zealous? Hardly. The NDP are social democrats. They're very moderate left.

Yeah but floating nationalization of telecommunications? Not too wild about that.


Yeah, but it's not really usable because the oil is mixed with sand or something.


I thought that there was some progress being made toward extracting it--hence a boom in a few northern Alberta areas.

[Scuba_Steve]

there is, thats why theres so much talk about oil sands.




even though it's focking up the ecosystem over there.

[Akira]

I would like to live in Japan, but I think it is hard to declare a "greatest" country.

[Amit]

Stuck between USA and Switzerland

123

[Varment]

lol who voted usa?

[sweboy]

Only morons vote for the USA. And if you're from the USA, you're most likely a moron.

The circle of moronity is complete.

[Amit]

are you being serious sweboy

[Africa]

Despite America's problems it is still the greatest, it is a lovable beast.

[spitfirejunky]

I'd potentially vote for the last option if the Middle East weren't lumped with **** Saudi Arabia.

[Hababi]

I'd potentially vote for the last option if the Middle East weren't lumped with **** Saudi Arabia.

:lol: So which Middle Eastern country would you vote for?

[spitfirejunky]

Kuwait or UAE. I've lived in Egypt, but it's not nearly as good as the others.

[Hababi]

Kuwait or UAE. I've lived in Egypt, but it's not nearly as good as the others.

So what makes them different/better than Yemen/Quatar/Bahrain?

[spitfirejunky]

Much less active enforcement of Sharia Law, smarter and more diverse general population, access to better education and employment, etc.

[Africa]

What makes them better than U.S. of A.?

[spitfirejunky]

I was merely measuring potential. The US will always be at the top of my list because of NYC.

[Varment]

lol no votes on austrailer

[The End]

Saudi Arabia is actually nice, and I doubt any of you have ever been there.


Oh, and zero, its Qatar

[Hababi]

Saudi Arabia is actually nice, and I doubt any of you have ever been there.


Nice if you're a middle eastern man. Not so nice if you're a woman. Really not so nice if you're a Jew. Really, really, not so nice if you're a Jewish woman:p



Oh, and zero, its Qatar

Doh

[The End]

Nice if you're a middle eastern man. Not so nice if you're a woman. Really not so nice if you're a Jew. Really, really, not so nice if you're a Jewish woman:p




Doh

well what they are doing now is turning an eye towards tourism (I know, sounds crazy). The main spots will be more liberal places in the Hijaz region such as Jeddah, and there will apparently be special resorts where men and women of all ages can go to the beach (in swim suits no less... :p) and scuba dive in the Red Sea (which has some of the best scuba diving in the world).

[lunchforthesky]

I voted for Sweden, but i didnt know whether i wanted that, Denmark or Switerland. I may have voted for the UK if it was an option.

You split the Europe/non US vote so its kind of biased, plus most people here are American.

Also can you turn it into a public poll, that would be more interesting.

[Amit]

it is a public poll

[Auberge le Mouton Noir]

wait singapore but no UK? well whatever

i voted canada but i've never been

[Smokey D]

This is the stupidest poll ever. What makes a country great? I think France is a pretty fun place to live, but I know its economy is on the verge of collapse and it suffers from massive inequalities. At the same time, New Zealand is pretty boring, but its economy is growing healthily and has one of the better levels of racial equality.

[Akira]

This is the stupidest poll ever. What makes a country great? I think France is a pretty fun place to live, but I know its economy is on the verge of collapse and it suffers from massive inequalities. At the same time, New Zealand is pretty boring, but its economy is growing healthily and has one of the better levels of racial equality.

That's how I feel.

[Auberge le Mouton Noir]

This is the stupidest poll ever. What makes a country great? I think France is a pretty fun place to live, but I know its economy is on the verge of collapse and it suffers from massive inequalities. At the same time, New Zealand is pretty boring, but its economy is growing healthily and has one of the better levels of racial equality.

the single measure of a countries greatness is HISTORICAL CONQUEST




This is how we know UK > USA > France

[Smokey D]

the single measure of a countries greatness is HISTORICAL CONQUEST




This is how we know UK > USA > France

I think the percentage of victorious conflicts is in the US's favour, but absolutes go to Britain.

[Aaron]

Depends if you take away points for failed confilcts :lol:

[Smokey D]

The US has only lost like one war.

[Auberge le Mouton Noir]

Depends if you take away points for failed confilcts :lol:

:lol:

Vietnam has got to be worth an america and at least we held america for a while

in the cosmic game of risk

[Smokey D]

Then you got smacked.

[Aaron]

What about the War on Terror?

[Smokey D]

Well, aside from the metaphysical problem of not being able to declare war on an abstract noun, they haven't actually lost that. Even Iraq is salvagable (and, strictly speaking, not part of the war on terror).

[Hababi]

This is the stupidest poll ever.

That's for you to decide ;)

America is the most powerful (economically and militarily), has always been free and democratic, has always acted benevolently toward the international community, has fought for human rights, has a high standard of living, and hasn't gone insane (Sweden). So that's how I'll define greatness, and that's who I'll vote for.

[Aaron]

That's for you to decide ;)

America is the most powerful (economically and militarily), has always been free and democratic, has always acted benevolently toward the international community, has fought for human rights, has a high standard of living, and hasn't gone insane (Sweden). So that's how I'll define greatness, and that's who I'll vote for.
Many'd disagree.

[Hababi]

Many'd disagree.

Yeah but they'd be wrong :p

[Smokey D]

That's for you to decide ;)

America is the most powerful (economically and militarily), has always been free and democratic, has always acted benevolently toward the international community, has fought for human rights, has a high standard of living, and hasn't gone insane (Sweden). So that's how I'll define greatness, and that's who I'll vote for.

It has often done those things, but not always.

[Aaron]

Yeah but they'd be wrong :p
Google for David Hicks and have a read.

[Hababi]

More for, and/or less against, than any other country.


Google for David Hicks and have a read.



The terrorist?

[Smokey D]

More for, and/or less against, than any other country.

Supporting oppression by proxy is just as bad.

Besides, past achievements don't mean anything with regards to current greatness.

[Aaron]

The terrorist?
The alleged terrorist who's been held for 5 years without charge.

[Hababi]

The alleged terrorist who's been held for 5 years without charge.

Alleged nothing. He's a terrorist.


Besides, past achievements don't mean anything with regards to current greatness.

Historic standard ought to count for something.

[spitfirejunky]

Saudi Arabia is actually nice, and I doubt any of you have ever been there.

What!?

Well yeah, Red Sea resorts are excellent, but by no means a measure for "greatest." Saudi Arabia is terrible for everyday living.

[-1up!-]

America... has always acted benevolently toward the international community
Even ignoring the UN in its zeal to launch a digusting and failing war in Iraq;
has fought for human rights
I just read that no one in Guantanamo has been convicted of anything in the last 5 years, and that it continues to be a hellhole for prisoners (most of whom are far from being terrorists) denied the Geneva rights for war prisoners;
and hasn't gone insane (Sweden)
Naming an absolute farce as your president and letting religions fundies influence the political process makes you the insane.

[Smokey D]

Historic standard ought to count for something.

Why? It's not like anyone you know or is currently part of your country participated in the achievements of 200 years ago, and its pretty unlikely you think like the so-called heroes of the past. You have more in common with nationals of other modern industrialised nations than you do with a Revolutionary patriot.

[Aaron]

Alleged nothing. He's a terrorist.

You ignore my main point: held without charge for 5 years.

[Smokey D]

You only have the right to be proved innocent after you've been found innocent.

/shifty eyes

[Hababi]

Even ignoring the UN in its zeal to launch a digusting and failing war in Iraq;

:lol: Because the UN always acts for human rights. The UN loves to criticize the US while sitting on their hands in the face of genocide (see: Darfur).


I just read that no one in Guantanamo has been convicted of anything in the last 5 years, and that it continues to be a hellhole for prisoners (most of whom are far from being terrorists) denied the Geneva rights for war prisoners;


Oh come on we're talking about people who were picked up on the front lines of combat.



Naming an absolute farce as your president and letting religions fundies influence the political process makes you the insane.

:lol: Ok you can try to make that point with a straight face when we start stoning gays.


Why? It's not like anyone you know or is currently part of your country participated in the achievements of 200 years ago, and its pretty unlikely you think like the so-called heroes of the past. You have more in common with nationals of other modern industrialised nations than you do with a Revolutionary patriot.


I'm not just talking about 200 years ago, though.


You ignore my main point: held without charge for 5 years.


A terrorist, caught on the frontlines of combat.

[Aaron]

You make me laugh. You can't get past your preconcieved ideas about people to address issues in front of you. What do you say about the fact that the US Govt has not charged a man after 5 years of captivity?

And by what exactly do you mean the frontline of combat? David Hicks was standing at the back of a truck having a smoke IIRC. The truck was in the main street of a town.

[Hababi]

You make me laugh. You can't get past your preconcieved ideas about people to address issues in front of you. What do you say about the fact that the US Govt has not charged a man after 5 years of captivity?


I'm not too upset by it, and I could point out 10 worse things about any other country. We're in a different type of war, with new challenges in trying these reprobates. Bottom line is that he has a better standard of living now than he did when he was all jihadi.


And by what exactly do you mean the frontline of combat? David Hicks was standing at the back of a truck having a smoke IIRC.

According to who, his sleazeball defense attorney?

[Aaron]

He wasn't allowed a sleazeball defense attorney; he was assigned a military lawyer by the US Govt. because they wouldn't let internationals access. So by according to what source: the US Govt's allocated lawyer.

[spitfirejunky]

:lol: Because the UN always acts for human rights. The UN loves to criticize the US while sitting on their hands in the face of genocide (see: Darfur).

You do know why, right?

[Hababi]

He wasn't allowed a sleazeball defense attorney; he was assigned a military lawyer by the US Govt. because they wouldn't let internationals access.


And why do you think this is?


So by according to what source: the US Govt's allocated lawyer.

Reciting the lie the scumbag terrorist is telling him.


You do know why, right?


Because of many of its members' interests. Usually not involving the US.

[Aaron]

What do you think of the fact that the US hasn't paid its dues to the UN and is in the highest amount of debt to them? Pretty benevolent hey!

[Hababi]

What do you think of the fact that the US hasn't paid its dues to the UN and is in the highest amount of debt to them? Pretty benevolent hey!

The US has the highest GDP too, so it makes sense that the figures are higher. Find me debt per person.

[Smokey D]

I'm not just talking about 200 years ago, though.

Well, technically, just because people were great in the past doesn't make them great today but that kind of distinction would render this whole argument utterly futile.

We are still faced with the problem that past achievements don't in themselves translate into current greatness, though they might have contributed to a state of current greatness.

A terrorist, caught on the frontlines of combat.

You can't claim the US has a good human rights record and then claim the people whose rights it denied didn't deserve them. You're begging the question.

[Aaron]

Well if they're the best country in the world shouldn't they be able to pay it? It's a pretty basic concept.

You have debt but a means to pay it? Pay it! :wow:

[spitfirejunky]

Because of many of its members' interests. Usually not involving the US.

Perhaps you should look into the Middle East more deeply.

[Smokey D]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_by_public_debt

The US has the highest GDP too, so it makes sense that the figures are higher. Find me debt per person.

Is this good enough?

[superpeer]

Belgium, obviously.

[Hababi]

We are still faced with the problem that past achievements don't in themselves translate into current greatness, though they might have contributed to a state of current greatness.


They definitely contribute. And, I see nothing wrong with looking back on WW2, in particular, and being proud of what America did.


You can't claim the US has a good human rights record and then claim the people whose rights it denied didn't deserve them. You're begging the question.

Compare the United States to other nations in a time of war.


Is this good enough?


That's an improvement, but then you have to factor in all the US does.


Perhaps you should look into the Middle East more deeply.


Specifically?


Well if they're the best country in the world shouldn't they be able to pay it? It's a pretty basic concept.


Every country has debt, and I said greatest, not perfect. Are you saying Estonia is the greatest country in the world? :p

[Aaron]

That's an improvement, but then you have to factor in all the US does.
Like what?

[Smokey D]

They definitely contribute. And, I see nothing wrong with looking back on WW2, in particular, and being proud of what America did.

Sure, celebrate it but don't be fooled into thinking that America is your America.

Compare the United States to other nations in a time of war.

Britain's got a pretty decent record when you compare it within the same time frame as existence of the United States. I think it's pretty unfair to do anything else.

That's an improvement, but then you have to factor in all the US does.

And factor in all the things other governments do.

[Electronic Wolf]

I went with Switzerland.

[spitfirejunky]

Since that time, [the US] has become by far the most frequent user of the veto, mainly against resolutions criticising Israel (see Negroponte doctrine). This has been a constant cause of friction between the General Assembly and the Security Council

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_Security_Council_veto_power#United_ States

I don't like Wikipedia, but if you Google it well enough you'll find a reliable source that tracked the number and description of US vetoes in the past 30 something years.

The US has practically only ever used its veto power to help Israel.

[-1up!-]

:lol: Because the UN always acts for human rights. The UN loves to criticize the US while sitting on their hands in the face of genocide (see: Darfur).

You haven't touched my point. I was adressing your claim of "America has always acted benevolently towards the international community", which is bullshit.

Oh come on we're talking about people who were picked up on the front lines of combat.

That alone doesn't tell anything of their political activities, not even if they're terrorists. There you go having preconceived ideas as usual and not being able to formulate an argument. Justify why no one in Gitmo has been convicted of anything yet there are still near 400 individuals imprisoned in there, being denied the Geneva Convention relative to Treatment of Prisoners of War (because America obviously has no grief ignoring the international community and its treaties. )


:lol: Ok you can try to make that point with a straight face when we start stoning gays.
I'm making it with a straight face right now. God is so present in the American political discourse it is absolutely sickening.

[Hababi]

Like what?


Foreign aid, domestic aid, military, etc.


Sure, celebrate it but don't be fooled into thinking that America is your America.


Most of the changes (ie civil rights) have been good ones, so it is very much like my America.


Britain's got a pretty decent record when you compare it within the same time frame as existence of the United States. I think it's pretty unfair to do anything else.


Not quite as good as the US though.


And factor in all the things other governments do.

Sure. None quite like the US.


The US has practically only ever used its veto power to help Israel.


Because many of the rest of the nations are busy using the UN to get their Jew hating out.

[spitfirejunky]

Because many of the rest of the nations are busy using the UN to get their Jew hating out.

I disagree, however the other countries' vetoes have disputably caused more damage to other countries in general.

In any case, I only sought to correct you when you said the US doesn't usually use its veto power.

EDIT:

Grammar.

[Hababi]

You haven't touched my point. I was adressing your claim of "America has always acted benevolently towards the international community", which is bullshit.

And you have yet to prove it. The international community should've supported the toppling of Saddam Hussein.


There you go having preconceived ideas and not being able to formulate an argument. Justify why no one in Gitmo has been convicted of anything yet there are still near 400 individuals imprisoned in there, being denied the Geneva Convention relative to Treatment of Prisoners of War (because America obviously has great grief ignoring the international community and its treaties. :p )


They're not being denied the Geneva Convention. And, they're not being tried yet because we're still working out the kinks of the system. They're terrorists, so it doesn't bother me too much.


I'm making it with a straight face right now. God is so present in the American political discourse it is absolutely sickening.

90% of the population is Christian, so duh. Once again, when we start stoning gays, you can talk about backwards fundies. Till then, it just is ludicrous.


however the other countries' vetoes have disputably caused more damage to other countries in general.


Definitely.

[tumples]

i think that America is far from the "greatest" country in the world, they certainly have as many problems and have made as many mistakes as anyone else. I voted Switzerland, they dont do much wrong really.

[-1up!-]

And you have yet to prove it. The international community should've supported the toppling of Saddam Hussein.
That is your own personal opinion and is pointless in a debate. See, this is your problem: your arguments are mostly made up of your own opinions and facts distorted to support them. Such as: "I don't care about Gitmo prisoners, they're all terrorists!" when it is still uncertain most of them are even related to Al-Qaeda.


They're not being denied the Geneva Convention. And, they're not being tried yet because we're still working out the kinks of the system. They're terrorists, so it doesn't bother me too much.

I don't give a rat's arse about what bothers you or not. I care about how prisoners are being denied rights protected by international treaties.

Guantánamo Bay - a human rights scandal
The unlawful detention of "enemy combatants" at the US Naval Base at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba has now entered its fifth year. Hundreds of people of around 30 different nationalities remain held in effect in a legal black hole, many without access to any court, legal counsel or family visits.

Many of them allege they have been subjected to torture or other cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment. Three detainees have died at the camp, after apparently comitting suicide. Others have gone on prolonged hunger strikes, being kept alive only through painful force feeding measures.

Guantánamo Bay is a symbol of injustice and abuse.

It must be closed down.

They are being denied the Geneva Convention. The fact that you're denying such a well-known fact raises questions in your ability to distanciate your opinions and conceptions from the truth.

[Hababi]

i think that America is far from the "greatest" country in the world, they certainly have as many problems and have made as many mistakes as anyone else. I voted Switzerland, they dont do much wrong really.

How much right do they do?

[Hababi]

That is your own personal opinion and is pointless in a debate. See, this is your problem: your arguments are mostly made up of your own opinions and facts distorted to support them. Such as: "I don't care about Gitmo prisoners, they're all terrorists!" when it is still uncertain most of them are even related to Al-Qaeda.



I don't give a rat's arse about what bothers you or not. I care about how prisoners are being denied rights protected by international treaties.

Amnesty International doesn't count for anything. They love terrorists.

[tumples]

How much right do they do?

they do right by not going wrong, theyve realised the secret. they havent started any illegal wars, or just in general pissed anyone off, they are quite happy to be neutral and that benefits everyone. sometimes by try to do right *cough* war on terror *cough* you cause more wrongs

[Aaron]

In this debate America seem to be the best country to live in if there are no other countries in contact with it.

[Hababi]

they do right by not going wrong, theyve realised the secret. they havent started any illegal wars, or just in general pissed anyone off, they are quite happy to be neutral and that benefits everyone. sometimes by try to do right *cough* war on terror *cough* you cause more wrongs

Because it's real moral and respectable to do business with war criminals and eat your chocolate while idly standing by as genocides occur. That's something to be respected.

[Aaron]

...and who trained Osama?

[tumples]

Because it's real moral and respectable to do business with war criminals and eat your chocolate while idly standing by as genocides occur. That's something to be respected.

haha, id rather sit and eat chocolate than be responsible for all the deaths that the US has since 1945

[Chrysostom]

I probably should've added Britain, Germany and France, too...

Yes. Yes you should.

[lunchforthesky]

As far as America is concerned doing what;s right basically constitues themselves forcing their views and culture upon everyone else, regardless of whether or not they want it.

[Electronic Wolf]

I think the United States would place last on my list of countries.

[Akira]

I think the United States would place last on my list of countries.

Now that is just dumb.

[Chrizzle fo' Shizzle]

America was the first modern country to be based upon the principles of democracy and capitalism, which I consider to be the only ethical systems of government and economics

It was built upon the idea of a person not being merely a piece of a whole. They are not a member of the proletariat in communist country, nor a servant to the nation or race, as in a fascist country. A person in America is the be all and end all in himself

[lunchforthesky]

Not by a long shot, every Muslim nation ranks worse for me.

Come on Sharia Law? American's might be ignorant, intolerant half-wits but that nothing compared with blaming women for being raped.

[lunchforthesky]

America was the first modern country to be based upon the principles of democracy and capitalism, which I consider to be the only ethical systems of government and economics

It was built upon the idea of a person not being merely a piece of a whole. They are not a member of the proletariat in communist country, nor a servant to the nation or race, as in a fascist country. A person in America is the be all and end all in himself

Unluckily for you, The Isle of Man and Iceland were the first democracies in the world and share both those principles

[Aaron]

America's history was full of violence and this attitude has continued throughout it's definition. To outsiders, americans seem gun-happy and paranoid. Australia was built on democracy too; we're not passing laws that stop people from speaking out against our government.

[Electronic Wolf]

Now that is just dumb.

Your mom is dumb.

[Chrizzle fo' Shizzle]

Unluckily for you, Iceland was the first democracy in the world.

The Icelandic Commonwealth fell in 1262, when it came under rule of Norway

[Jon]

no england content, so I voted for the comedy option

[Chrizzle fo' Shizzle]

America's history was full of violence and this attitude has continued throughout it's definition. To outsiders, americans seem gun-happy and paranoid.

Our forefathers fought and died to ensure our freedom; we're not going to let anyone take them away

Australia was built on democracy too; we're not passing laws that stop people from speaking out against our government.

Good thing we aren't either

[lunchforthesky]

The Icelandic Commonwealth fell in 1262, when it came under rule of Norway

Sorry i meant the Isle of Man. Parliament formed in 1765.

[lunchforthesky]

Our forefathers fought and died to ensure our freedom; we're not going to let anyone take them away



Good thing we aren't either

Ahem, not heard of the Patriot Act. I cant even type that without laughing at such a stupid name.

[Aaron]

Our forefathers fought and died to ensure our freedom; we're not going to let anyone take them away
By impeding other peoples' freedoms?


Good thing we aren't either
:lol: you make me laugh

[-1up!-]

Amnesty International doesn't count for anything. They love terrorists.
Would you kindly make a relevant argument instead of stating your infantile opinion about a widely respected international organization?

[dei]

You're asking for too much.

[shaqadelic]

Not
Come on Sharia Law? American's might be ignorant, intolerant half-wits but that nothing compared with blaming women for being raped.

Way to round all Muslim majority states in the world into one stereotype that is not true.

[Smokey D]

Most of the changes (ie civil rights) have been good ones, so it is very much like my America.


Those changes are themselves some of the things which make your America very different to that America.


Not quite as good as the US though.

I'm not sure I'd agree.

Sure. None quite like the US.

No, but perhaps equally or more expensive.

[lunchforthesky]

Way to round all Muslim majority states in the world into one stereotype that is not true.

I would rather live in America than any muslim country and secondly most if not all Muslim states treat women like possesions which is unacceptable.

[Smokey D]

That's not true. The UAE isn't really comparable to any other Middle Eastern state except maybe Kuwait. It's pretty liberal, despite being an oligarchic monarchy.

Sorry i meant the Isle of Man. Parliament formed in 1765.

When people speak of American democracy, they're really talking about liberal democracy. To the best of my knowledge, the US was the first exponent of this system.

Also, the Tynwald (the Isle's native and ancient legislature) was made subservient to the British Crown in 1765. I'm also not sure how truly democratic it would have been prior to the modern age.

[lunchforthesky]

That's not true. The UAE isn't really comparable to any other Middle Eastern state except maybe Kuwait. It's pretty liberal, despite being an oligarchic monarchy.

Thats two out a great many more others which aren't Liberal and i did say most.

[Smokey D]

You also said: "Not by a long shot, every Muslim nation ranks worse for me." I didn't think that was fair.

[lunchforthesky]

But it does rank worse for me. I admit not knowing everything about the UAE but firstly its not even a representative democracy and secondly it cant be more liberal than say New York, i doubt it anyway.

[-1up!-]

Smokey since you study in History I'm curious about something... When does the modern age start, according to what you've learned? I was taught most francophone historians placed it at the French Revolution, but then again Quebec has always been closer to French culture than Anglo-Saxon culture (as in anglo Canada and the US, perhaps) which would probably not use a French political event to mark the shift...

[Chrizzle fo' Shizzle]

Ahem, not heard of the Patriot Act. I cant even type that without laughing at such a stupid name.

I'll cede the PATRIOT ACT as a serious breach of our country's deepest held traditions and liberties, but I don't think it's going to last. Besides, it hasn't done nearly as much damage as FDR did

By impeding other peoples' freedoms?

Which people, specifically?

:lol: you make me laugh

Yes, because it is illegal to criticize the government in the United States :rolleyes:

[Smokey D]

From what I understand, it's a pretty cool place. You're going to get away with virtually everything you would in most American cities. This merely highlights the problem of this poll. It doesn't acknowledge the different qualifications for 'best country'. There is probably far less poverty in UAE than in the US because the government uses its vast oil wealth to pay for its social problems.

A far better choice for Zero would have been to make a variety of polls asking what is the best place for political freedoms, the best place for business, the best standard of living etc.

Smokey since you study in History I'm curious about something... When does the modern age start, according to what you've learned? I was taught most francophone historians placed it at the French Revolution, but then again Quebec has always been closer to French culture than Anglo-Saxon culture (as in anglo Canada and the US, perhaps) which would probably not use a French political event to mark the shift...

Typically the French revolution is cited most frequently as the end of pre-modernity. I would argue, though, that events elsewhere pre-figured the shift to modernity. In particular, I would consider the English Civil Wars and the American Revolution as important milestones in the move towards the modern age.

[lunchforthesky]

Modern History is from the 1700's or it is in the British curriculum.

[lunchforthesky]

From what I understand, it's a pretty cool place. You're going to get away with virtually everything you would in most American cities. This merely highlights the problem of this poll. It doesn't acknowledge the different qualifications for 'best country'. There is probably far less poverty in UAE than in the US because the government uses its vast oil wealth to pay for its social problems.

A far better choice for Zero would have been to make a variety of polls asking what is the best place for political freedoms, the best place for business, the best standard of living etc.

That sounds pretty cool.

I guess the US treats the UAE as a shining beacon to the Islamic world, although maybe not with the lack of democracy.

[shaqadelic]

UAE is far from the most liberal Muslim majority country but you wouldn't know cause you love to stereotype.

[Smokey D]

Modern History is from the 1700's or it is in the British curriculum.

From my courses, 1789 is cited as the absolute end of pre modernity. There is some debate about when it might have started, but anything after the revolution is generally thought to belong to the modern age.

[lunchforthesky]

I think it is similar for me. Although im first year and havent done the modern age yet.

[Krabsworth]

I'm guessing the American Civil War marks modernity?

[Mr. Ron]

US, because it's not such a bad place when you put aside the bad stuff....almost.

[Light__Fantastic]

One of the neutral European countries, not sure which one exactly.

[griftadan]

dammit i didn't see switzerland.

but still, probably USA, i love the atmosphere and culture, and the climate is nice.

[griftadan]

dammit zero, why'd you m ake this thread? i was perfectly fine not realizing how retarded this forum has become.

[Give me Beer]

This is the stupidest poll ever. What makes a country great? I think France is a pretty fun place to live, but I know its economy is on the verge of collapse and it suffers from massive inequalities. At the same time, New Zealand is pretty boring, but its economy is growing healthily and has one of the better levels of racial equality.

The French economy is not on the verge of collapse, it's doing the best ever, but it's far of from collapsing, that's really pushing it into the extreme. As for "massive inequalities" there is probably less inequality then in the USA. -_-

[The End]

What!?

Well yeah, Red Sea resorts are excellent, but by no means a measure for "greatest." Saudi Arabia is terrible for everyday living.

how would you know this

[Hababi]

dammit zero, why'd you m ake this thread? i was perfectly fine not realizing how retarded this forum has become.

Because the topic got started in another thread and someone posted "but that's for another thread" so I thought "Why not" :p

[The End]

ok well two countries that would rock to be a native citizen of if you are a man are Kuwait and the UAE there's no disputing that

edit: also Bahrain

[DBoons Ghost]

I've never read so much ignorance in my life. Most if not all the people who criticze the US have never been here, never will come, and watch too much TV. You all should be ashamed.

I would pick Luxumborg. Quality of life + Highest salary per median, longest life and most luxuries. That's quality living. Only thing that kinda sucks is the fact it's a constitutional monarchy. It seems to be working for them though.

[Hababi]

I've never read so much ignorance in my life. Most if not all the people who criticze the US have never been here, never will come, and watch too much TV. You all should be ashamed.

I would pick Luxumborg. Quality of life + Highest salary per median, longest life and most luxuries. That's quality living. Only thing that kinda sucks is the fact it's a constitutional monarchy. It seems to be working for them though.

But also insane housing prices and congestion :\

[DBoons Ghost]

Insane housing prices? Everyone makes salary according to their location.

We've been over this already within the US.

The houses are expensive because the people there can afford them. The monarchy gives a lot back due to the people's constitution. With a total population of 474,413, a low growth rate and average living age in the mid 80s, and their stance on immigration being open ended, this country has thrived on their own.

[DBoons Ghost]

I failed to mention Luxumbourg's GDP per capita ranks first in the world.

See?

[Knifeboy]

I've been to San Francisco, best place to go if you want to keep your view of America being the most horrible place to live ever... But I'm not gonna be stupid and say I know what it's like to live in America, considering it's so big that you'll probably be able to find regions akin to any other country in the world

And Zero, I'm severely offended that you spelled Denmark with three k's :angry:


Edit: For everyone who voted Sweden, Denmark is much better! Alot like Sweden, but without all the dirty swedes everywhere!

[DBoons Ghost]

That's the beauty of the US. San Francisco is one little city in the state of California, in the Republic of the United States of America.

The funny thing is, we can have the same poll on which state is the greatest in the country, and the bickering wouldn't be too different from the overall feeling of this thread. Each state has it's own laws, it's own climate, it's own economy...

It's like each state is it's own country in of itself. That's why most Americans are so ignorant about world affairs. We have enough to deal with within our own communities much less city much less state...

People tend to be very ignorant to that though.

[Auberge le Mouton Noir]

America is the most powerful (economically and militarily), has always been free and democratic, has always acted benevolently toward the international community, has fought for human rights, has a high standard of living, and hasn't gone insane (Sweden). So that's how I'll define greatness, and that's who I'll vote for.

Alleged nothing. He's a terrorist.


OK that's some good rights you got there

[GreyHam]

i know americans are notoriously poor at having knowledge of the world outside theyre front door but....


you missed out the UK

and Germany

but you didnt miss out saudi arabia. im detecting some kind of joke here

[DBoons Ghost]

i know americans are notoriously poor at having knowledge of the world outside theyre front door but....


you missed out the UK

and Germany

but you didnt miss out saudi arabia. im detecting some kind of joke here


The irony of this made me shoot Pepsi out of my nose..

"i know americans are notoriously poor at having knowledge of the world outside theyre front door but.... you missed out the UK"

Since when is the United Kingdom a country? It's a political union made up of the country of England, the country of Scotland, and the country of Ireland.

You sir, owned yourself and I am laughing at how stupid you are. Fool.

[Mr. Ron]

i know americans are notoriously poor at having knowledge of the world outside theyre front door but....


you missed out the UK

and Germany

but you didnt miss out saudi arabia. im detecting some kind of joke here

Not all. ;)

[DBoons Ghost]

Actually I forgot Wales. But it would seem a lot of people forget Wales is a country. So maybe I am just another ignorant American.

[GreyHam]

The irony of this made me shoot Pepsi out of my nose..

"i know americans are notoriously poor at having knowledge of the world outside theyre front door but.... you missed out the UK"

Since when is the United Kingdom a country? It's a political union made up of the country of England, the country of Scotland, and the country of Ireland.

You sir, owned yourself and I am laughing at how stupid you are. Fool.

the united kingdom of great britain and northern ireland, with a centralised government. scotland have theyre own parliament to legislate themselves but are still governed by central parliament, and the welsh assembly has little legislative power. the queen is head of state

now, piss off

and have a nice day though, you nearly made yourself look good

[DBoons Ghost]

Whatever. Nice try at a recovery. No one asked about their government.

The title of this thread is greatest country in the world, and you came in saying TS forgot about the UK.

The UK is not a country. End of story.

[GreyHam]

Whatever. Nice try at a recovery. No one asked about their government.

The title of this thread is greatest country in the world, and you came in saying TS forgot about the UK.

The UK is not a country. End of story.


whatever trevor, whatever
actually, hang on

http://www.nationmaster.com/graph/eco_gdp_percap-economy-gdp-nominal-per-capita

the data is of no relevance, but as you can see, its richest countries by GDP and, whats that? oh, the United Kingdom is listed there. under, yknow, countries

you should probably clean that pepsi up

EDIT: very mature

[DBoons Ghost]

My dad can kick your dad's arse.

I know you are but what am I.

I got the last word in.

NYAH NYAH NEENER NEENER

/raspberry.

[Hababi]

Dboon, the thing to look at is average house price to average income--in Britain, it's jumped to 6:1. I know it's less than that in America.

[DBoons Ghost]

I was talking about Luxumbourg earlier, not America.

[Hababi]

I was talking about Luxumbourg earlier, not America.

Yeah I know, I was just saying that because I'm struggling to find the numbers for Luxembourg :p

[DBoons Ghost]

Check the CIA factbook website. I think they should be there. I will check too.

EDIT: https://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/lu.html

[Light__Fantastic]

Most if not all the people who criticze the US have never been here, never will come, and watch too much TV. You all should be ashamed.I have lived there for some months, so can I now continue criticism? Or what?


Oh I think you should stop criticism of any country if you haven't been there, what a good idea. Well, I guess we can shut down this forum then.

[DBoons Ghost]

I have lived there for some months, so can I now continue criticism? Or what?


Oh I think you should stop criticism of any country if you haven't been there, what a good idea. Well, I guess we can shut down this forum then.

Where in this country did you live? Did you travel to every state and question every citizen?

Sweeping generalizations make you look ignorant sometimes. I've never been to Luxumbourg either, but based on their numbers and history I chose them to discuss, because I clicked the USA on the poll.

[Hababi]

Check the CIA factbook website. I think they should be there. I will check too.

EDIT: https://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/lu.html

Yes,

GDP - per capita (PPP):
Definition Field Listing Rank Order
$65,900 (2005 est.)

[Light__Fantastic]

Where in this country did you live? Did you travel to every state and question every citizen?


Upstate New York, and I don't need to because there is plenty of information available about a country without having to go and investigate it yourself. That's why it makes no sense to tell people critical of the US to go there before they make any judgements.

[Lydisk]

go norway

srs

even though we are going to die when the oil runs out.

[Ando!]

The poll has a srs lack of Britain, but I stil would've picked the US anyway

[DBoons Ghost]

Upstate New York, and I don't need to because there is plenty of information available about a country without having to go and investigate it yourself. That's why it makes no sense to tell people critical of the US to go there before they make any judgements.

Ah.

Well, I hate upstate NY too.

People up there are somewhat odd.

[tumples]

This thread would be been more meaningful if we had some sort of criteria to judge it on, the title is begging for USA to be picked and it was sure to turn into a big America debate.
But ya, i still vote Swiss

[AA-12]

USA overall.

Runners up would be Norway and Finland, but that's more of a living quality for an individual and not an overall look.

[Hababi]

This thread would be been more meaningful if we had some sort of criteria to judge it on, the title is begging for USA to be picked and it was sure to turn into a big America debate.
But ya, i still vote Swiss

Part of it is about the criteria that defines greatness--everyone has a different take on what it is.

[Auberge le Mouton Noir]

Dboon, the thing to look at is average house price to average income--in Britain, it's jumped to 6:1. I know it's less than that in America.


You try fitting 5x the population of america in a country 1/50th of the size and see how much your houses are worth ;)


The irony of this made me shoot Pepsi out of my nose..

"i know americans are notoriously poor at having knowledge of the world outside theyre front door but.... you missed out the UK"

Since when is the United Kingdom a country? It's a political union made up of the country of England, the country of Scotland, and the country of Ireland.

You sir, owned yourself and I am laughing at how stupid you are. Fool.

Technically yes, but Britain/the UK is really a "nation" and there are surprisingly few people indeed in britain that identify themselves as english/welsh/scottish, except among britons themselves.

[Hababi]

You try fitting 5x the population of america in a country 1/50th of the size and see how much your houses are worth ;)


:lol: Yeah I know, it was inevitable, but still, it's a detriment.

I'd take Singapore over Luxembourg--I hate chewing gum, anyway.

[GreyHam]

You try fitting 5x the population of america in a country 1/50th of the size and see how much your houses are worth ;)




Technically yes, but Britain/the UK is really a "nation" and there are surprisingly few people indeed in britain that identify themselves as english/welsh/scottish, except among britons themselves.

im glad someone can see sense and isnt just beeing obstructive for the fun of it

[DBoons Ghost]

You try fitting 5x the population of america in a country 1/50th of the size and see how much your houses are worth ;)




Technically yes, but Britain/the UK is really a "nation" and there are surprisingly few people indeed in britain that identify themselves as english/welsh/scottish, except among britons themselves.

Yeah I was just bustin chops at the irony. It was funny to me and that's what matters in the end.

I turned to one of my coworkers who is also a filthy arrogant Brit and he actually had to think about it before saying.. "Wait up mate.. quit taking the piss and lemme think.. "

[GreyHam]

Yeah I was just bustin chops at the irony. It was funny to me and that's what matters in the end.

I turned to one of my coworkers who is also a filthy arrogant Brit and he actually had to think about it before saying.. "Wait up mate.. quit taking the piss and lemme think.. "

yup... and whats your point

[DBoons Ghost]

My point is the United Kingdom is not a country.

My second point is you claimed Americans are ignorant and you made an ignorant statement by asking why the UK was not included in this poll.

If you hadn't said anything about Americans being ignorant, which is itself an ignorant generalization, most would have assumed you wanted the countries within the United Kingdom included in the poll. Assuming is bad on internets though.

Next time you claim Americans are ignorant, be smart about yourself lest ye be insulted again. You nitwit.

[GreyHam]

tssk. ive been to america a few times and met some of the most ignorant halfwitted people that ive had the pleasure of encountering. just generalising from there

england scotland wales and northern ireland are countries in the sense that thats were the borders are. a geographical thing. if thats what you want to focus on then fine. but the nation of britain and ireland, collectively the UK, is one solitary political body. and, as i showed you earlier, it is referred to as a country. one example i know but i could find you some more.

and, yknow, dont try and tell me about my own country, especially such a minor technicality. you plank

[Auberge le Mouton Noir]

Yeah I was just bustin chops at the irony. It was funny to me and that's what matters in the end.

I turned to one of my coworkers who is also a filthy arrogant Brit and he actually had to think about it before saying.. "Wait up mate.. quit taking the piss and lemme think.. "

That's because our words are better than yours ;)


"sidewalk" indeed. what a rubbish word

[Iskandar]

I'd take Singapore over Luxembourg--I hate chewing gum, anyway.
And personal freedom?

[Hababi]

And personal freedom?

:lol: Hey it's not too bad--you have most of your basic freedoms that you have here in America. It's just worse for you if you screw up :p

[Iskandar]

:lol: Hey it's not too bad--you have most of your basic freedoms that you have here in America. It's just worse for you if you screw up :p
That's why it sucks!

America yayayayay
What makes America so much better than any other Western democracy?

[Hababi]

That's why it sucks!


Haha hey that's why I don't have to worry--I don't plan on screwing up :p

[spitfirejunky]

how would you know this

A large part of my mom's side of the family spent years there (for different reasons). Do I have to go over its nuisances?

[Chrizzle fo' Shizzle]

lol at people choosing Switzerland

It's like Ozzie and Harriet made a country, only with compulsory military service

[Hababi]

lol at people choosing Switzerland

It's like Ozzie and Harriet made a country, only with compulsory military service

And complete apathy to suffering elsewhere in the world.

[lunchforthesky]

That's because our words are better than yours ;)


"sidewalk" indeed. what a rubbish word

haha isnt it, sounds like a six year old describing the road.

Did anyone vote American who isnt actually American, i doubt it.

[Iskandar]

Haha hey that's why I don't have to worry--I don't plan on screwing up :p
I would rather just change the definition of what constitutes "screwing up."

[dei]

I'm American and I voted Switzerland.

[DBoons Ghost]

tssk. ive been to america a few times and met some of the most ignorant halfwitted people that ive had the pleasure of encountering. just generalising from there

england scotland wales and northern ireland are countries in the sense that thats were the borders are. a geographical thing. if thats what you want to focus on then fine. but the nation of britain and ireland, collectively the UK, is one solitary political body. and, as i showed you earlier, it is referred to as a country. one example i know but i could find you some more.

and, yknow, dont try and tell me about my own country, especially such a minor technicality. you plank

I'm not going to argue about semantics. I've been to London a few times myself, and while I can't say I met a ton of ignorant halfwitted people, there were plenty of football hooligans, which is worse then any ignorant person in most cases and tons of inherintly arrogant self entitled turds. People like you. So, you know your country breeds arrogance, and quite frankly, there aint nothing for it anymore. It's funny that I work for a British bank and everyone begs to ex-pat here to work and live. I guess everyone wants to be an ignorant American.

Every country has it's issues.

[dei]

But our country has the most issues.

[Amit]

america would be amazing if there weren't fundies

[lunchforthesky]

^^ I agree with that.

Less guns too would be nice.

In fact America would be great if they chopped off the south.

[DBoons Ghost]

But our country has the most issues.

Maybe, but on the domestic front, we have the third largest work force behind India and China. If people don't approve of our foreign policy, that's ok. But people who live in glass ex-empires who've taught the world how to meddle for their own personal gain shouldn't throw stones.

[Amit]

i dunno some of my best friends at my university are from the south

but they tell me that they aren't exactly the norm where they are from

hehe

[GreyHam]

inherintly arrogant self entitled turds. People like you. .

now was theyre any need to get as personal as that?

as a closing point: a country is defined by its borders, and what relevance does that have in the context of this poll? borders dont make a country good or bad, the government does. ill leave it there, i think ive provided a substantial enough argument, and you know im right.

but it sucks when an arrogant self entitled limey turd like myself schools you

ps im going to refrain from directing any kind of anti-american put down at you. maybe its because im an arrogant turd but i consider that beneath me

[DBoons Ghost]

You didn't school anyone so don't even play it like you did.

I don't care what you say about this country or it's people. I aint that fragile to take internets personal.

[dei]

It's not too late to nuke the South.

[lunchforthesky]

Maybe, but on the domestic front, we have the third largest work force behind India and China. If people don't approve of our foreign policy, that's ok. But people who live in glass ex-empires who've taught the world how to meddle for their own personal gain shouldn't throw stones.

Meh America will decline over the next few centuries and then theyll be the ex-power.

[GreyHam]

You didn't school anyone so don't even play it like you did.

I don't care what you say about this country or it's people. I aint that fragile to take internets personal.

obviously: you didnt learn a solitary thing. come off your podium and you might learn a thing or two

[Amit]

Meh America will decline over the next few centuries and then theyll be the ex-power.

especially if the fundies continue with their suicide mission to compromise education in america

[dei]

We should also look into somehow getting rid of the entire Midwest. Maybe we could blow that up too and fill it with water. America will only be the East and West coasts with a sea in the middle. Imagine that.

[sweboy]

lol at people choosing Switzerland

It's like Ozzie and Harriet made a country, only with compulsory military service

Not so much lol in my opinion (info from wikipedia):

- Probably the country closest to direct democracy in the world
- Liberal cannabis situation
- 40% nuclear power, 60% hydroelectricity
- Ranked 8th on Reporters Without Borders's Worldwide press freedom index ranking (compare to the US placing 53rd)
- 4th highest in cheese consumption

[lunchforthesky]

We should also look into somehow getting rid of the entire Midwest. Maybe we could blow that up too and fill it with water. America will only be the East and West coasts with a sea in the middle. Imagine that.

Man that would be great.

[lunchforthesky]

Not so much lol in my opinion (info from wikipedia):

- Probably the country closest to direct democracy in the world
- Liberal cannabis situation
- 40% nuclear power, 60% hydroelectricity
- Ranked 8th on Reporters Without Borders's Worldwide press freedom index ranking (compare to the US placing 53rd)
- 4th highest in cheese consumption

f'uck i should of picked Switzerland.

[Amit]

We should also look into somehow getting rid of the entire Midwest. Maybe we could blow that up too and fill it with water. America will only be the East and West coasts with a sea in the middle. Imagine that.

my girlfriend (and a couple of my friends) is from the midwest though =(

[DBoons Ghost]

Meh America will decline over the next few centuries and then theyll be the ex-power.

I'm not proud of that. No one should be. We're a power thats harmful to only ourselves. You'd think our government would learn that.

If I ever do brag about America, it's because of the hard work many human beings from many walks of life have contributed to. We have a great deal to be proud of outside of our government's meddling mishaps. I'm ashamed of them right now, as any self respecting human being would be.

However, the bottom line is, and what started this asinine tit for tat, is that the United Kingdom is not a country.

That's really the end of my dealings with this thread.

[dei]

If they're cool, let them move into your house.

[DBoons Ghost]

obviously: you didnt learn a solitary thing. come off your podium and you might learn a thing or two

Ignore list with you silly boy! My ignore list is like a tard trap. You should be proud you made the cut. Join the ranks of the other retards who also grace the list.

I learned that you are a childish boy, or girl as it were. The UK is not a country.

You started this with your sweeping generalization, that everyone spews with their own nationalist pride or lack there of. Be proud.

[dei]

I think it's sad that only three other people voted for Switzerland.

Where's the love?

[GreyHam]

The UK is not a country.



indeed sir
and please learn to be less condecending in future

[pedro durruti]

Disregarding the American government and all of its mandates, the US is a great country. But I say this because it's the only country I've been in, aside from one small escapade into Canadian territory. When you put aside its crappy suburbs, and a lot of its small towns, you'll find that it is an amazing place. It has plenty of great cities where in the ease of avoiding the police, a lot of things that are normally illegal can be practiced freely, like elsewhere in the world. And considering it stretches across all of North America, and takes up a huge proportion of it lengthwise (not to mention Hawaii and another more northern, giant state), it has an extraodinary landscape all to itself. I think the same could be said for Canada, too.

But in terms of foreign and domestic policy, the US is a shitty country, and I'd say Denmark or Sweden could either be considered one of the greatest.

[dei]

If I moved to another country, the only things I'd miss about America are all the shows we get here and the Troubadour, my second home. Seriously.

[pedro durruti]

Yeah, that's another thing. With a population of about 300 million any country is bound to have wonderful, diverse culture as well. So many great musicians, artists, writers and everything.

[Chrizzle fo' Shizzle]

Not so much lol in my opinion (info from wikipedia):

- Probably the country closest to direct democracy in the world
- Liberal cannabis situation
- 40% nuclear power, 60% hydroelectricity
- Ranked 8th on Reporters Without Borders's Worldwide press freedom index ranking (compare to the US placing 53rd)
- 4th highest in cheese consumption

It also has compulsory military service, more firepower per person than any place else in the world (including the US), lots of white people, and is traditionally very capitalist

Don't get me wrong, it sounds like one of the best countries ever. To someone like me. But when I see a lot of you people saying it, I'm like "lol this is a libertarian, capitalist, white person paradise"

[Iskandar]

O Canada,
Our home and native land!
True patriot love
In all --- ----- command!
With glowing hearts, we see thee rise
The True North strong and free!
From far, and wide, O Canada,
We stand on guard for thee!
--- keep our land
Glorious and free
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee!

Our national anthem sucks. What can we put in place of the religious references?
It has compulsory military service, more firepower per person than any place else in the world (including the US), lots of white people, and is traditionally very capitalist
None of those things really appeal to me. I'm opposed to compulsory service, I don't really care about guns, I don't care how many minorities live here and well every regular of the forum has heard my opinion of capitalism.

[Smokey D]

The French economy is not on the verge of collapse, it's doing the best ever, but it's far of from collapsing, that's really pushing it into the extreme. As for "massive inequalities" there is probably less inequality then in the USA. -_-

Talk to me in 15-20 years. I don't just mean a recession, I mean a complete and utter break down of the social state.

And the Parisian banlieues are worse than pretty much all US slums.

The irony of this made me shoot Pepsi out of my nose..

"i know americans are notoriously poor at having knowledge of the world outside theyre front door but.... you missed out the UK"

Since when is the United Kingdom a country? It's a political union made up of the country of England, the country of Scotland, and the country of Ireland.

You sir, owned yourself and I am laughing at how stupid you are. Fool.


The UK is a single country composed of multiple nations.

[DBoons Ghost]

The UK is a single country composed of multiple nations.

That's simply not true.

One of our chief economists (Who is British and Oxford educated) explained to me that the United Kingdom is (his exact words) a union, hence the reference to the "Union Jack". The countries of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are countries within the union of the United Kingdom. I don't know where you get your information from, but I'm stickin with what he told me.

[Smokey D]

One of our chief economists (Who is British and Oxford educated) explained to me that the United Kingdom is (his exact words) a union, hence the reference to the "Union Jack". The countries of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are countries within the union of the United Kingdom. I don't know where you get your information from, but I'm stickin with what he told me.

The UK is a single kingdom subject to the ultimate authority of a single parliament reigned over by a single monarch. I'm not quite sure how we want to define country in this argument, but the UK is a single political community with respect to the outside world, and in my mind that makes it a single country. It is, however, composed of different nations with different traditions and cultures.

In fact, I'd say the UK occupies a pretty unique position in that its four constituent parts are discrete political and cultural units in themselves that combine to form another such unit. In short, the four countries within the UK form another country.

By your logic, the United States is not a country but merely a union of 50 states. I think that's a pretty retarded view to take.

[GreyHam]

finally, i thought i was going insane for a while

[-1up!-]

Canada, just because it is more progressive and left-leaning on the political scale than the US, and because we don't go around the world fighting infinitely stupid wars against abstract nouns. And because I just don't know enough about Europe.
(I'd almost go for Australia because of the kangaroos and emus. But...)

And the winter's cold but skiing more than makes up for it.

[StrawberryFieldsForever]

Canada, Eh!

We have clean air, clean water, more resources than anyone else.

But the top 5 reasons Canada rules:

1)Niel Young
2)Rush
3)The Guess Who
4)The Barenaked Ladies
5)The Tragically Hip

[-1up!-]

The top reason Canada rules: Quebec.

I love how everyone quotes this "Canada, Eh!" thing as if all Canadians recognized themselves in it.

For the record I live in Quebec, speak French 24/7 and do not consider myself a Canadian at all. But saying "I think the best place to live is Quebec" would just confuse people because we ain't a country...

...yet. :mad:

[Petros]

you forgot Greece

[RockAndRoll]

The top reason Canada rules: Quebec.

I love how everyone quotes this "Canada, Eh!" thing as if all Canadians recognized themselves in it.

For the record I live in Quebec, speak French 24/7 and do not consider myself a Canadian at all. But saying "I think the best place to live is Quebec" would just confuse people because we ain't a country...

...yet. :mad:

Pfft, it's all about unity. Haven't you seen Bon Cop, Bad Cop? Vive the Franglais!

[-1up!-]

Pfft, it's all about unity. Haven't you seen Bon Cop, Bad Cop? Vive the Franglais!

I haven't even seen it yet :p

[dei]

Is Franglais anything like Spanglish?

[Smokey D]

The top reason Canada rules: Quebec.

I love how everyone quotes this "Canada, Eh!" thing as if all Canadians recognized themselves in it.

For the record I live in Quebec, speak French 24/7 and do not consider myself a Canadian at all. But saying "I think the best place to live is Quebec" would just confuse people because we ain't a country...

...yet. :mad:

You're a separatist?

[RockAndRoll]

I haven't even seen it yet :p

Well there's your problem right there. You don't understand that we must unite to save our game! We're not so different you and I! :eek: :p

Is Franglais anything like Spanglish?
I don't know, only if Spanglish is something like Franglais.

[Smokey D]

Franglais is where French people try to speak English but make mistakes and use French colloquialisms badly translated or when English people say things like 'je suis tired'. Is that like Spanglish?

[dei]

Spanglish is when people use both Spanish and English words together in sentences, and then someone mash words together to come up with things that are really dumb sounding.

For example, push in Spanish is empujar. But people sometimes say "puchar" or "pushar," which is supposed to be a mix of the two.

[RockAndRoll]

No, no, no that's not franglais, that's just being an english bastard. Franglais is a mix of the two, not a mockery of french, or no more than it is a mockery of english anyways. It's also known as frenglish.

[Smokey D]

Wiki says they're different.

[RockAndRoll]

At any rate franglais is what it's all about!

[-1up!-]

You're a separatist?

Hmm hard to say. I am very much attached to the Quebecois francophone culture and I define my political identity first and foremost as a Quebecker. I do not recognize myself in Canadian culture/identity nearly as much as in Quebec's social culture and identity. Furthermore, I have few to no sympathies regarding the federalist status quo, while I deeply appreciate seeing the separatist movement, a movement in which I recognize myself a lot more (an ideal defended by artists, many intellectuals, syndicalists; people usually prone to have more progressive social ideas in Quebec) rather than the status quo defended by the economic elite and wealthy anglophone minority of Montreal.

I think it would be a great thing for both parties if Quebec was to secede, as it would cleanse the Canadian political process; federal parties have been known to bend over backwards to satisfy our (sometimes specific) needs and claims just to quelch the separatist movement, giving Quebec more political weight in reality than our actual demographic weight in Parliament. If you ask me if I'm a separatist, I'd say a mellow one; there are many mysterious things waiting for us if we secede, and nothing can be accurately predicted, but I'd be willing to take this risk.

The question is whether my attitude is genuinely a desire for independence or just that I am, on an ideological level, a lot closer to the separatist movement.

[Chrysostom]

Of the options given I'd pick Japan based on it's history, countryside and culture.

[Smokey D]

So that's a yes, then.

Is it possible to celebrate and be attached to the unique Quebecois culture and not want to secede? Does the federal government actually jeopardise the continued existence of francophone Quebec, and if not what would be the point of seceding?

[Aaron]

you forgot Greece
Why would anyone want to live in greece? you don't have running water in most towns

[Boilermaker]

America... **** yea!

[Akira]

Of the options given I'd pick Japan based on it's history, countryside and culture.

That is my favorite on the list.

[Chrysostom]

That is my favorite on the list.

You are a wise man, my friend.

[Smokey D]

Really? I reckon Japan wouldn't gel well with my western sensibilities.

[Give me Beer]

Talk to me in 15-20 years. I don't just mean a recession, I mean a complete and utter break down of the social state.

And the Parisian banlieues are worse than pretty much all US slums.

Economic breakdown and social security not keeping up with the ageing population are two very different things my friend. I trust we'll be here in 15 years, so remember this thread. ;)

Oh and trust me, the Parisian banlieues are not worse than pretty much all US Slums. There's bad parts, but you make it out like it's ****in' Baghdad (Panama :P), I think you over-estimate how bad it is. Explosive social situation does not equal worst slums. Trust me, you're letting the media screw with your perceptions. By the way, isn't the US the country with 11 million people that can't even afford to feed themselves? and another 24 million that have trouble finding food at times?

[Smokey D]

Economic breakdown and social security not keeping up with the ageing population are two very different things my friend. I trust we'll be here in 15 years, so remember this thread.

No they're not. In 15-20 years, the French state will be bankrupt because of its social commitments and failure to modernise an ossified economy. Such bankruptcy will have catastrophic implications for the economy.


Oh and trust me, the Parisian banlieues are not worse than pretty much all US Slums. There's bad parts, but you make it out like it's ****in' Baghdad (Panama :P), I think you over-estimate how bad it is. Explosive social situation does not equal worst slums. Trust me, you're letting the media screw with your perceptions. By the way, isn't the US the country with 11 million people that can't even afford to feed themselves? and another 24 million that have trouble finding food at times?

I have been to the banlieues. My sister lived there for a year. It's not just media perception.

The US has some pretty shocking poverty stats, but it isn't because of a systematised suppression of ethnic and historical identity to an idealised view of national citizenship.

[Chrysostom]

Really? I reckon Japan wouldn't gel well with my western sensibilities.

I believe I could accomodate myself. But failing Japan, the artists quarter of Paris (Montmatre) would be freakin' sweet too.

[Give me Beer]

No they're not. In 15-20 years, the French state will be bankrupt because of its social commitments and failure to modernise an ossified economy. Such bankruptcy will have catastrophic implications for the economy.

Doubt it will come to that. They might not have figured it out yet, but you're putting things far too dramatic.

I have been to the banlieues. My sister lived there for a year. It's not just media perception.

The US has some pretty shocking poverty stats, but it isn't because of a systematised suppression of ethnic and historical identity to an idealised view of national citizenship.

Uhu, and you've visited just which US slums to make that comparision? Where was she living? Clichy-sous-Bois ou quoi? If we're going to make apocalyptic predictions involving immigrants like this, can I state that in 50 years the US is going to tear itself apart because of communitarian issues? Or to be specific, there's going to be an Hispanic-seperatist movement and you're going to get some nice social upheaval. Find me an example of a country in which two big language communities can actually get along... :lol:

:0

I love how you brush it of as "The US has some pretty shocking poverty stats..."

Yes they do, and they sound a lot worse than the banlieus if you ask me. That's pretty much half the population of France that isn't even certain it's going to eat on a day by the day basis.

France has to work on its immigration issues but it's not half as bad as you make it out to be.

[StrawberryFieldsForever]

Quebec sucks.

The only thing that ever came out of Quebec was Simple Plan, and they suck.

The English could have totally taken that land but was nice enough to keep it all French and stuff.

I'd say go ahead and seperate, but that would likely deal a signifigant blow to the economy, and I'd feel bad for those poor Atlantic provinces stuck all the way over there.

[RockAndRoll]

Quebec sucks.

The only thing that ever came out of Quebec was Simple Plan, and they suck.

The English could have totally taken that land but was nice enough to keep it all French and stuff.

I'd say go ahead and seperate, but that would likely deal a signifigant blow to the economy, and I'd feel bad for those poor Atlantic provinces stuck all the way over there.

*Disclaimer*

Views expressed on this program do no nessecarily reflect the views of other anglophone Canadians and their associates.

[CrossTheBreeze]

America... **** yea!
Aw man, I was going to say that.

[italic zero]

Of the options given I'd pick Japan based on it's history, countryside and culture.
I can say without reservation that Japan is the weirdest ****ing place in the world.

[CrossTheBreeze]

How so?

[italic zero]

I think the best way to judge a culture is by their pornography.

[-1up!-]

Quebec sucks.

The only thing that ever came out of Quebec was Simple Plan, and they suck.

The English could have totally taken that land but was nice enough to keep it all French and stuff.

I'd say go ahead and seperate, but that would likely deal a signifigant blow to the economy, and I'd feel bad for those poor Atlantic provinces stuck all the way over there.

I wouldn't want to sound like you deserve to be taken seriously on that point, but what the **** did Manitoba ever give to the world besides cereals? :p

[CrossTheBreeze]

Thats one way of looking at things.

EDIT: directed at Italiczero

[spitfirejunky]

The only thing that ever came out of Quebec was Simple Plan, and they suck.

Rufus? Arcade Fire?

[StrawberryFieldsForever]

They suck.

Manitoba has given the world The Guess Who and Niel Young.