The Politics of an American in France
Blech! How boring to discuss one's political views! But, it's easier than replying to all of the emails regarding the latest international political crisis individually. I promise it won't be too painful.
Disclaimer:Below are my opinions as an American living in France. I don't speak for anyone but myself. All thoughtful comments and questions welcomed, but keep it clean, folks.
"Expatriate" doesn't equal "ex-patriot", as some people may think. Americans move to France for many reasons: to teach, to work for a French branch of a US company, to work for the US embassy or non-govt orgs such as UNESCO, to marry a French person, to study French, or simply to learn about a new culture. Some fall in love with the place, others go back to the US after a few years. But in general, most Americans abroad are still American citizens, hold US passports, call themselves Americans, and may even be quite active in American clubs and associations like the Democrats Abroad or Monaco-USA Club. For most of us, living in France isn't meant to be a snub to our home country, even if we feel happier living here. Think of us as little ambassadors.
I usually find myself explaining to French friends why America is the way it is. For French people who've never been to the US, our ways seem very odd at times. This happens both ways, obviously, as I continually find myself explaining why France is the way it is to other Americans who have never lived here. This is especially difficult during times when our countries' governments aren't getting along. I majored in political science in college and studied it both in Paris and the US. I used to side with the US on most political matters (social and culinary matters are another story). However, I have to admit I'm quite proud of the French government and its stance on Iraq.
I like to think that living abroad gives me a better viewpoint on my country. I can read the US news, the international news, and get many different angles on the same topic. I always feel like I'm in a fishbowl when I'm in the States, everything seems distorted, news is more like...entertainment. But step outside and I see things more clearly. I realize not everyone has the chance to do this, which is too bad. I think the average American would understand America better if they could step outside for awhile, too.
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