*Cough* — 8 Reasons Why the United States of America is Still the Greatest Country on Earth
One of the most persistent and insidious lies peddled by the president-elect is that America is a pathetic mess. He may have a point when it comes to infrastructure — JFK is a national shame and nightmare, especially when compared with Amsterdam Schiphol, Munich Airport, or Oslo Gardermoen — but when it comes to everything else, he is wrong. Here are just eight reasons why America is still the greatest country on earth.
(This list is by no means exhaustive. We’re just trying to make you stop and appreciate the goodness you may have lost sight of in these last few months.)
#1 — Terry Gross
For forty years, this indefatigable radio host has embodied radical empathy in her interviews with the world’s most amazing artists, writers and musicians.
#2 — Law & Order: SVU
Stabler might be gone, but Mariska Hargitay and company continue to prove that difficult discussions about sexual assault and mass entertainment are not mutually exclusive.
#3 — Beyoncé
America has given the world Beyoncé. Even if this were its only contribution to world culture, it would still be the greatest country on earth.
#4 — Social Q’s
The New York Times might have gotten many other things wrong, but their Social Q’s column by Philip Galanes continues to give readers the most sympathetic and accurate advice on how to be a good human being. Galanes has turned civility into an artform.
#5 — Freedom of Speech
In America you can call the president a fascist dimwit with a sphincter mouth, and you won’t have to look over your shoulder for the men in black. In fact, you can call him a foreign-born Muslim socialist and be elected as his successor.
#6 — The Marijuana Industry
Pot is now more legal in Denver than in Amsterdam, and true to its entrepreneurial spirit America has professionalized the industry in no time.
#7 — Silicon Valley
No matter how powerful China has become economically, and how many call centres are located in India, the biggest economic revolution in the world remains driven by a small piece of land on the American West Coast.
#8 — Beyoncé
Did we mention Beyoncé? Because even if we did, we’re going to go ahead and mention her again.
The United States is this woman’s birthplace and homeland.
We rest our case.
By the Anti-Nihilist Institute Team
Originally published December 27, 2016.
