The World's Spiderman???

I have recently gotten into a number of conversations regarding the United States' current political state, as well as the war in Iraq and I have been surprised at the overwhelmingly popular opinion that the kiwis have on that. Then again, I may be just spending time with one type of people, but that remains to be seen as of yet.

Many nations have criticized us for the decision to enter Iraq and have refused to lend us support. There are also many nations, as well as many Americans that see the United States as a power-hungry bully, doing what they will, with who they wish because it is the most powerful nation in the world. I have found that many kiwis, in their small corner of the world, feel that the US is justified in what they have done...in this or ANY war (including dropping the A-bomgs). The statement most often received during a debate over the moral aspect of America's actions is "the US is the most powerful nation and it is their responsibility to take necessary actions." It is amazing how the US is perceived as a sort of superhero, one man even made the statement "with great power comes great responsibility." I was shocked. They feel that the US having sweatshops in foreign countries is ok because it still helps run these places economy. They've said that, even though the US is difficult with NZ bc of their nuclear ban, that they should appreciate whatever American is willing to give. It is this idea, not that the US has done anything wrong, not that George W. is a negative public figure, but that everything that is heinous and rather unpleasant to think about in this world,should be dealt with by us, because we have the power to do so. Like I said, there is no concern for the moral implications or consequences. It is baffling to me as I had preconceived notions of these kiwis, with their female prime minister and nuclear bans, their environmental conservation and all the rest, would look down upon the US and our dealings with the rest of the world. And like I said, maybe I've got to talk to more people.

I have also discovered that, should the US exhaust their supply of able-bodied soldiers, there are heaps of men here in NZ that wish they could join the army, the navy, the marines. It is quite an interesting situation.

-NMK