Self-Centered Americans

            One recurring theme that struck me during this class was how different the United States is compared to other countries.  During our global healthcare discussion, we talked about the idea of health care as a human right. While there is controversy within the U.S. about this topic, many other countries seem to wholeheartedly believe that every human being deserves medical care. This demonstrates the individualistic mindset that I would argue the majority of Americans have.

            Over 58% of Americans believe it is more important for everyone to be free to pursue their life’s goals without interference from the state. In contrast, over 65% of citizens in Spain, France, and Germany believe the state should ensure that no one is in need. This makes me think that health care providers in other countries are less likely to push their own values onto others. As we have been discussing, it remains controversial whether or not healthcare providers in the U.S. should be able to exercise their religious freedom in healthcare settings. I think this relates back to the individualistic mentality many Americans have. I would predict that in other countries, healthcare providers respect the beliefs of others and think they are as important as their own beliefs. Therefore, they theoretically should not allow those beliefs to affect the decisions made at their job, especially since health care is seen as a human right in many places.

            This class has made me recognize flaws both in the healthcare system in the U.S., and also in the mindset of many Americans, including myself. Though it may take conscious effort, I think it’s important to put the needs of others above our own wants and desires, especially if it is part of our job to do so. This idea of being self-centered was introduced to me in the last few months when my younger sister came home after studying abroad in Spain. What struck her the most about her entire experience was how much everyone hated Americans. She took a history class and would send me snapchats of lecture slides bashing the United States and our culture full of greed. Perhaps our individualistic approach to healthcare and foreign relations can partially explain their unfavorable views of the U.S. I’m happy this was brought to my attention this year in more than a few ways, so that I can be more conscious of my motives behind both professional and personal decisions.  

References:

http://www.pewglobal.org/2011/11/17/the-american-western-european-values-gap/

http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2015/03/12/how-do-americans-stand-out-from-the-rest-of-the-world/