Letter By Vladimir Putin Exposes 'Exceptional' American Inequality (Huanqiu, China)
An open letter written to the American people by Russian
President Vladimir Putin, which in part takes aim at the notion of 'American
exceptionalism,' has much of the world applauding. According to this editorial
from China's state-run Huanqiu, 'American
exceptionalism' reflects a failure on the part of the U.S. to stand up for equality,
and is at variance with 'Western political thought and the teachings of the Christian
world that dominate the United States.'
Vladimir Putin: In the game of global chess, he appears to be at the top of his game. His letter to the American people has raised hackles in the United States, but plenty of applause around the world, especially his criticism of 'American exceptionalism.'
In
the September 11 edition of The New York
Times, Russian President Vladimir Putin contributed
an open letter calling for a diplomatic resolution to the Syria crisis. At
the end of this article, Putin criticized the idea of "American exceptionalism,"
which was stressed by Barack Obama the day before in a nationally-televised
address. From the reaction of U.S. media, one would have thought Putin had
poked a hornet's nest, as he was assailed for being contemptuous of one of the
most significant American values.
Although
the United States is regularly riddled with internal controversy, it is
admirable that at critical moments, the whole of American society is able to
unite as one to confront pressing issues. This reaction to setbacks has likely
contributed America's becoming the world's only superpower.
The
theory of "American exceptionalism" can be traced to the Declaration
of Independence and has evolved over the past two-and-a-half centuries. It arises
from justifiable pride in the achievements of American society, but also a belief
that God has put the U.S. under his special care. It is a reflection of idealism,
but also a basic American philosophy that guides the country. Overall, when it
comes to the question of why the United States is exceptional, it is hard to
argue with Americans, since the truth is less important that the value.
Some
assume that until the United States seriously declines and degenerates into a
"second-class country" like today's Britain, the theory of
"American exceptionalism" will endure as a core U.S. value. From the
point of view of international politics, however, that assumption is nonsense.
Setting that aside, the fact that Putin dared challenge America's most sacred belief must
be applauded. Even if Americans question his motives, Putin's comments will
leave an impression on the American consciousness. The American public may be
angry that Putin touched this nerve, but the U.S. has been bossing the world
around for years. There are precious few with the weight to deal Washington such
a heavy blow, which is a reflection of how the United States became somewhat "spoiled"
by the rest of the world.
Posted By
Worldmeets.US
During
the crisis in Syria, Russia and the United States resumed their chess match,
and Moscow has put in an outstanding performance. Although Russia's GDP is
roughly only $2 trillion, which would seem to make it ever-more difficult for it
to confront the United States, the Western world has clearly underestimated the
Kremlin - and Putin. [U.S. GDP in 2012 was roughly $16 trillion].
The
comprehensive strength of a country depends on two aspects. One is that its
power is great; the second is that its weaknesses are few. In the case of Russia,
it has a very strong military, but scientifically and technologically it is
merely passable, and its overall level of industrialization and computerization
are not really world class. Russia's weaknesses, however, are not so significant.
For example, it is neither dependent on external markets, nor dependent on
external energy sources and raw materials. Hence, there are almost no strategic
chips that the outside can play to threaten Russia. Russia can be unflinching when
its core interests are threatened - even by an unusually coherent global force.
The
crisis over Syria's chemical weapons has demonstrated that Russia continues to have a vital
role to play in maintaining the global balance of power. Moscow is eager to
expand its influence and strike an active or even aggressive pose to deter
other countries from violating any of its most coveted interests. This is
consistent with its vast territory, abundant natural resources, complex ethnic
makeup and complications with the former Soviet countries.
Russia's
strategic purposes and pursuit of power and influence based on its own interests
benefit the fragile balance of power in the world today. So Putin's decision to
personally submit a letter to an American newspaper and speak directly
against "American exceptionalism" should be applauded by world public
opinion.
"All
men are created equal," is both a basic proposition of Western political thought
and the teachings of the Christian world that dominate the United States. As a representative
of the democratic West, the United States should be more open to differing
voices in the world and be able to listen. The excessive reaction of American
society and U.S. elites reflect a lack of social equality and low self-esteem.
