The American Character: its origin and development. Values in the american character

Generally speaking, Americans are an open and friendly people. The public behavior of Americans is probably more unrestrained and less reserved than that of some other nationalities. For example, it is perfectly normal for Americans to talk loudly, joke, and smile in public. Americans are not particularly concerned with strictly controlling the behavior of their children when in public. This may be something of a surprise, or even an irritation to visitors.

Informality is one of the hallmarks of the American character. Americans tend to be informal in both their public and private lives. When meeting Americans, you do not have to be mindful of some elaborate or subtle ritual. All that is needed is a firm handshake and a look straight in the eye. "Nice to meet you" is all you need to say. And at home Americans are similarly unceremonious. When you come to an American's home, you will probably be offered something to drink then be given a tour of the premises. Meals are often very straight-forward, and may only consist of one course. On special occasions, such as holidays, Americans will be more likely to eat several course meals.

Americans are not by any means uniform in their outward behavior. Although it is always risky to make generalizations, it seems that people from the Northeast are somewhat more reserved than Midwesterners, who are often veiy direct and are especially famous for their friendliness. Southerners have their own traditions and customs. The South has long been renowned for the value it places on hospitality, gentility, and manners. Westerner's, by comparison, are probably more informal than all the rest.

Although it is relatively easy to get to know Americans on first meeting them, it usually takes some time to establish a lasting relationship. The ease with which Americans establish initial relations can be deceptive; they will not necessarily invite you to their homes the first time you get acquainted with them.

Individualism is certainly the single most important feature of the American character. Indeed, it would be hard to overestimate the significance of individualism in America. Individualism, or so-called "rugged individualism", is undoubtedly the source of many of the country's accomplishments. Americans tend to want to do things on then- own and to be self-reliant. Consequently, they are often suspicious of any kind of governmental or bureaucratic interference in their^- lives. In extreme cases, this may result in the failure to do certain things as a community that cannot be accomplished by individuals acting on their own. On the other hand, the tremendous energy of American society probably has as one of its most important motivating forces just this powerful and ever present individualism.

Another distinctive American characteristic is pragmatism. This means that Americans, if given a choice, prefer to do what is practical. Americans are fond of common sense, but they are not particularly interested in theoiy, abstract reasoning, or philosophy. If something works, do it; if it doesn't work, try something else.

Дата добавления: 2015-04-24