Why do so many Americans hate America? And if they hate it so much why don't the

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   TheWorldNowposted 12 years ago

   Why do so many Americans hate America? And if they hate it so much why don't they just leave?
   
   One thing that really bothers me is the way some Americans seem to hate everything about America. I'd just like to ask them: "If you hate everything about the country you live in then why are you living in it?"
   
   Any insights?

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      Sharlee01posted 4 years agoin reply to this

      "Why do so many Americans hate America? And if they hate it so much why don't they just leave?"
      
      America offers a government that allows one to disagree, be heard, make changes by a majority.   Yes, we can as you put it hate, disagree in regards to individual things about America.  But we have a voice, an avenue to change what we find unsuitable.  We have the ability to work on changing anything we find that does not support our values, our pursuit of happiness, our freedom... 
      
      Yes, we can hate,  but we can put hate to work to maintain our precious freedom. 
      
      We have a government that we tell what to do, we are governed by the people.
      
      Not a government that tells us what to do, not a government where few voices dictate our lives.

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         TessSchlesingerposted 4 years agoin reply to this

         Wow. I don't know what propaganda you are listening to but in the 11 years I  spent in America, I never met an American who hated America.
         
         I certainly met Americans who were ashamed of America, and that's understandable in country that puts children into cages and where the president behaves like a lowlife criminal.
         
         There are 194 countries in the world. 186 of them have freedom. And many have a higher quality freedom than Americans have.
         
         It would probably open your eyes if you went to work in Western Europe or Australia for a couple of years.

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            Sharlee01posted 4 years agoin reply to this

            Just stating my opinion... I did not make mention of any other nation or make mention of any other form of governing?  Not sure why you feel I was comparing America to any other country?  I simply gave my view on how America governs.
            
            I take your word on meeting "Americans" that proclaim to be ashamed of America. 
            
            I can't address your insults in regards to the President.  My intellect tells me it's not kind or fair to insult anyone just because I can. Calling anyone a criminal that has never been arrested for committing a crime seems a bit "silly"? I can also assure you I am well-traveled and well aware that there are many wonderful countries in this wonderful world.
            
            I used the verbiage hate to address the treads subject. And yes, there are people that harvest hate in their hearts in every corner of the world, not only America.  It's a strong emotion that is very much alive and well... And never so apparent from the moment President Trump took office. As your very comment confirms...
            
            In your comment, you accused me of listening to propaganda.  Not sure how you came to that conclusion?   You accused the president of behaving like a lowlife criminal. You went on to assume I know little in regards to other forms governing in nations around the world.  It seems to me you have condemned my opinion just because it is not your opinion. You take the liberty to attempt to insult me and my views. I won't call that hateful, but rude. It is also clear you completely took my comment out of context?  Just to go on a "listen to me rant."

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               TessSchlesingerposted 4 years agoin reply to this

               Sharlee,there is another point I want to make.
               
               It's easy to check whether news if fake or not. It's easy to check whether information is accurate or not.
               
               The problem appears to be that Republicans en masse have no idea how to do that.
               
               That said, there is research that indicates that people who believe in god have no idea how to differentiate between truth and fiction. Unfortunately, to believe in God one has to be willing to allow one's brain to believe things that has been discredited.
               
               So that part of the brain shuts down.. When it doesn't, people leave their belief in god (and Trump) behind. This is why conservatives think that all the education institutions in the USA are liberal. No, they aren't. What they do is teach people how to evaluate information and to determine whether it is accurate, factual, or not.
               
               This is especially so when one does any number of science courses. I have about 7 years of science courses in total (5 at high school and 2 at college).
               
               When people learn the skills in evaluating information, they leave things like religion and right wing politics behind. They understand that these things do not work and are not based in factual information.
               
               People in Europe and the UK have a far higher level of education than people in the US. My daughter essentially repeated her A levels (high school) for her first two years in college, and I was learning info in second year college that I learnt in South Africa kindergarten in 1958. It was beyond bizarre.
               
               I was also constantly at loggerheads with various departments. I lost count of the number of times I went to the chair to dispute information that professors were teaching. I won against the math department three times where the entire math department was in debate and eventually decided I was right (the text book was wrong).
               
               It's very easy to know that Trump is ignorant and that he is racist and that he is a criminal.
               
               The reason one reads and views news sources from all over the world is that if 35 overseas publications have video tapes of Trump saying and doing things and it's not shown on Fox, then you know there is aproblem with Fox. Please believe me that countries are too different to all make a concerted effort on attacking Trump or America.
               
               The reason scientists have their work evaluated by their peers (peer review) is to make sure that the information is accurate.
               
               This is not about a popularity contest. It is vital to have the right data. Without it every bad decisions are made.
               
               You probably won't agree with  me in what I am going to say now, but I'll be 68 in a few weeks, and I have lived and worked in six countries on three continents and visited many more. America is more like a third world country than a first world country, and Trump is dismantling what few parameters kept it in the first world.
               
               Being in the first world has nothing to do with the amount of power and money one has. It has to do with the level of services and facilities available to ordinary citizens, i.e. taxes are spent on education, medical, libraries, public transport, etc. America's provisions are third world level.
               
               I understand your loyalty to a political manifesto, but it really would help you to explore further.

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                  promisemposted 4 years agoin reply to this

                  "People in Europe and the UK have a far higher level of education than people in the US."
                  
                  The US has the same educational level as the UK.
                  
                  https://www.cnbc.com/2018/02/07/the-10- … world.html
                  
                  "America is more like a third world country than a first world country."
                  
                  Our economy, education level, technology innovations, Nobel winners and other accomplishments suggest otherwise.
                  
                  Of course, we could stop spending so much money protecting UK, Europe, etc., and spend more money on ourselves. 

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                     TessSchlesingerposted 4 years agoin reply to this

                     Most of your Nobel prize winners were educated in other countries. That's nothing to be proud of.
                     
                     Please feel free to stop 'protecting' other countries. You aren't protecting them. You're using that as an excuse your extend your power.
                     
                     Nope. The United Kingdom is ahead of America.
                     
                     The problem with using the education system as a measurement of ignorance (my error) is that it depends on what the education system teaches.
                     https://www.indy100.com/article/most-ig … en-8194016
                     
                     The link above is about the ignorance level of people in various countries.
                     
                     https://www.indy100.com/article/most-ig … en-8194016

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                        promisemposted 4 years agoin reply to this

                        The 6 Americans who won in 2018 were all educated in the U.S. I just checked.
                        
                        If other countries don't want us there, why don't they tell us to leave? Because they want both our money and our protection. That said, I agree with you that we benefit by extending our power, although I question any real benefit.
                        
                        I don't see how UK is ahead of America in education when actual statistics show otherwise. I also suggest that educating a country with 330 million people is much more difficult than educating a country of only 66 million.
                        
                        A survey about ignorance from a site called Indy 100 is not proof of ignorance. FYI, I couldn't find the actual survey.

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   Credence2posted 12 years ago

   For those that hate America, I invite them to leave. But, if I am critical of the direction we as Americans are going in and I express that does not say that I hate Americda but love it enough to prod at it to be better. Most of that 'hating america' stuff is just so much rightwing drivel.

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      lone77starposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      I'm afraid that America and its Constitution are being strangled as we speak (or write). Look at the work of Ben Swann, Judge Napolitano and other patriots. You have to stop looking at Corporate Party news to find truth.

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      Larry Wallposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      Credence2:
      In other words if you see a problem you work to change it instead of offering or accepting a lot of rhetoric and name calling. Good approach--that is what we are all about.

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      Rickster56posted 9 years agoin reply to this

      If I had the money I would.

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   jtylerposted 12 years ago

   I myself understand why some people do, as I share certain views, but I believe that it is OK to "hate" America (depending on your usage of the word) as long as those who do do something to try to improve the country.

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      Sven Bargenbarsonposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      Nothing can be done. Because no one is really at the wheel...the monster will continue to subjugate its own citizens and terrorize the rest of the world until it collapses at some point.

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      NiaLeeposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      AGREED people have a right to their emotions, views, ideas…sometimes despite themselves. As long as, people don't hurt others, we agree, trying to make the world better one thing and one person at a time is good way to start too.

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   Jonesy0311posted 12 years ago

   I feel that (most) human beings define their existence through suffering; how bad their day at work was, they aren't receiving just compensation for their job, they are in debt, blah blah. America has had it too good for too long. It has become a nation of spoiled rich kids yelling across the massive income gap to blame the poor. Thomas Jefferson said that there should be a revolution every generation but hardly anyone in my age bracket practices civil discourse. Most want to complain and secretly hope that the "other guy" or "they" will fix it. I suppose we have just forgotten how a democratic society is supposed to function. I urge everyone to travel the world and do an unbiased compare/contrast; we have it pretty good.

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   junksellerposted 12 years ago

   Our wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, as far as I am concerned, are some of the worst things that have been done in my lifetime. In terms of the consequences to the world, and the individual misery and suffering that has been caused (for arguably little or no gain) they are many many times worse than 9/11.
   
   And yet in the face of that decision, nobody really stood up and said no, and the American people, half of whom can't find those nations on a map, simply acquiesced out of ignorance, or apathy, or fear, or anger, or all of the above. People cheering over the ILLEGAL assassination of Bin Laden are further testimony to how far Americans are willing to allow the rule of law to be shredded for the sake of ignoble emotions.
   
   We have been doing this now for a decade and it is disgusting and grotesque.
   
   Does that constitute hate? No. I love what America is supposed to be. A place of freedom and the rule of law and where all people are supposedly equal. I just don't see it as that place and I don't like a lot of what America does.
   
   I will love it again when it is the place worthy of being loved. Where we are noble rather than cowardly. Where we are informed, and engaged, and open-minded to the different viewpoints in the world rather than wasting our days on mindless tabloid news. When we lead the world rather than bully it. When we care about more than making money.
   
   My family has been here a long time. This is my land, and despite my views, no one should think I wouldn't defend the soil beneath my feet. But, you won't find me waving a flag at the Fourth of July. There is too much work that needs doing, and I believe flag-waving needs to be earned. I haven't earned it yet, and I am not sure many of us have.

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      alhadak mirkhaposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      my uncle died there he wasn't even fighting. an american killed him when he was on his way home from a bakery :'( R.I.P.

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   Old Empresarioposted 12 years ago

   Believe it or not, people have been saying that for decades. I don't hate America itself. I'm just ashamed to be an American. And course I am leaving. For those who stay, let me know how the next twenty years of cutting back on education and health benefits in order to continue fighting imaginary ghosts works out for you. I've read a few of your hubs and you seem interested in national politics. I wish you luck and sincerely hope you can make a difference. But you should know how ridiculous your question is. People can disagree with everything their government does yet still work for the prosperity of the state and civilization in which they live. That doesn't sound like hate to me.

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      Deborah Sextonposted 9 years agoin reply to this

      Cutting back on health benefits? They just assured that everyone has medical benefits.

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   Bretsukiposted 12 years ago

   I am not sure that many Americans do hate America.
   It seems to me many Americans complain about the exact same things as most other people around the world complain about. Rising prices, their views on government, the weather, how little they earn.
   
   I came to the US five years ago and became a citizen at the end of last year. I enjoy my lifestyle here in the US compared to England.
   
   Taxes are lower here, fuel prices are way lower, I still dance when I fill the car at $4.00 per gallon when I used to pay near $7 in England.
   
   With every complaint an American is living the dream of free speech and a right to question. OK sometimes it gets a bit too much of a downward spiral, but thank goodness we can do that.

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      lone77starposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      Only free speech is slowly being outlawed. HR 347, for instance, makes it a felony at the discretion of some government officials. NDAA allows the government to throw you in jail for no reason. And Obama makes war without Congress. Treason!

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      Larry Wallposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      HR 347 is not a free speech law. You cannot disrupt activities in federal buildings. NDAA is a defense bill and Obama is not guilty of treason. You do not like him, that is your right. Please do not carry the intent of a law beyond its intent.

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      Rickster56posted 9 years agoin reply to this

      I'd rather live as a poor man in England than as a rich one here.

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      Jeffsaltposted 9 years agoin reply to this

      @lone77star?.its comments like yours that make the art of compromise unthinkable in the is day and age.  You throw around the word "treason" without even knowing what it is.

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      Jackie Lynnleyposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      I agree with Rod and I think many do. I am surprised the man has not been impeached and I voted for him his first term! I am sick of him doing so many things as if he is a czar! I can't wait until he is out of office and God forbid we get Hillary!

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      Sullifyposted 7 years agoin reply to this

      Of course you agree, Jackie, you've shown yourself to be irrational. For instance, you'd agree with statements like "Obama is a Muslim" and "Obama loves terrorists". As Jeffsalt said, you make it hard to compromise by spouting fictional nonsense.

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   GNelsonposted 12 years ago

   I don't personally know anyone who hates America.  I know lots of Americans with opinions on what is wrong or what is right.  There may be haters out there but they are few.  You don't get a true picture of America from the media.  We love this country but we are not blind to it's faults.  We also have the right to speak our mind and disagree with one another and we do that very well.  But we are Americans first!

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      lone77starposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      Well said, but the Corporate Party media has become the new Gestapo propaganda machine. Obama is the new emperor. Syria the latest Sudetenland. Lies and more lies. Obama is a veritable silver-tongued devil and I voted for him in 2008. Betrayal

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      Larry Wallposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      Lone77star, I think you are out of line in comparing the "corporate party media" to the Gestapo in any manner. Obama is not an emperor. He is serving his second term and will be gone. I have voted for many candidates who have disappointed me.

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   jamesmdougherty2posted 12 years ago

   I'm not anti-American but I'm anti-government because I'm tired of the United States trying to control the world.  What works for use as a nation does not necessarily work for other countries and vice versa.  I think we need to stay at home and clean up the mess or messes in this country before meddling in the affairs of other nations.

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    lone77starposted 10 years ago

    I love America and Americans, but I hate the Corporate Party that has taken over politics in this country.
    
    I hate government-sponsored tyranny and murder. Only recently did the CIA admit to helping to topple a democratically-elected government in 1953 Iran. For some of us, this was not news. We've known far worse "secrets" about our beloved CIA.
    
    I hate a government-corporate fascism that ruins our health and finances with impunity. The 2008 fiasco resulted in how many bankers being arrested? And how many of the Medical-Pharma-Industrial complex have been arrested for suppressing cures that could've saved millions of lives? My last doctor, before I became emancipated told me that I'd be on a purple pill for the rest of my life. I cured my acid reflux in seconds with apple cider vinegar and papaya enzymes. A change of diet also helped. Medical doctors know a lot about petrochemical poisons to help manage disease, but they don't know squat about health maintenance. Why? Because the Rockefellers perverted the medical schools a century ago.
    
    You sound like your under the delusion that complaining about the bad in America is somehow unpatriotic. This nation was founded by rebels who disliked corruption. Become patriotic and open your mind to a little understanding.
    
    I don't like a government that lies and covers up crimes. Bradley Manning and other whistleblowers reported on government crimes, but the criminals go free while patriots like Manning get years in prison. Susan Lindauer, former CIA asset between our government and Iraq before the last Iraq war, was put in prison for knowing Bush's crimes. Bush lied to us about WMD's. Giuliani committed a felony by destroying crime scene evidence at ground zero, 9/11, more than a year before the official investigation began. And the top military officers responsible for the massive security failures on 9/11 all received promotions instead of courts martial. Only in America? Cover-up capital of the world.
    
    America is now the Evil Empire we once accused Russia of being. But we do it better. Our CIA gives poison gas to Syrian rebels allied with Al Qaeda (another branch of the CIA) and blames it on Assad so we can go to war with them.
    
    The excuses for war are getting so thin, Obama may as well burn the Constitution and just nuke the whole planet. That's how much he deserves the Nobel Peace Prize. What a crock!
    
    Yes, I love America. But I won't move back until the psychopaths are expunged or in jail.

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       Jeffsaltposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Good.  Stay gone.  You're just a windbag blowing smoke.

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       Ken Burgessposted 4 years agoin reply to this

       Just a smidge too much truth in this post... Well done.

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    alhadak mirkhaposted 10 years ago

    i can't leave until i'm 18 O_O
    
    Stuuuuck in the USAAA! Stuuuuck in the USAAA!

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    Angela Kaneposted 10 years ago

    Some Americans do have a right to be angry because of how they are treated, but most are just complaining because they are not getting what they want so they just whine until someone pays attention to them. If you are not a Native American, you have nothing to complain about and you can and should leave if don't want to be here.

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       Sven Bargenbarsonposted 10 years agoin reply to this

       If you have lived elsewhere in the world, it will become obvious that, though materially Americans have a lot to be thankful for, it comes at the expense of a decent and civil culture. America's mainstream is a bitter charade that lacks good will.

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       Deborah Sextonposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       The only ones that have a right to be angry, are our military men, our vets from earlier wars. Some don't know there is help out there for them and the government doesn't seem to be getting that message to them.
       There are regular and medical benefits

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    AOkay12posted 10 years ago

    I have never met an American who hates America.  It doesn't make sense to hate this country because it is still the best place to live on this planet.  Where would a person that hates America (and is not wealthy) go and still be able to have the more freedoms, a better standard of living and better opportunity to build wealth? 
    
    I have heard foreign people complain that it is better where they come from.  If that is the case, then I feel that these folks should pack their bags, go back to where they originated and have a nice life! I am not saying that America is perfect, but come on.

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       Deborah Sextonposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       I agree with you 100%

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       Rickster56posted 9 years agoin reply to this

       I'm one and it's far from perfect.

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    Laramy74posted 10 years ago

    The term "the greatest generation" set values at a bar yet reached by some baby boomers and generation X. 
    We have familiar advice as "don't waste anything, if you cannot afford it, don't buy it. 
    But for the most part, it has fallen on deft ears.  America has not had a financial crisis since the mid thirties.  Democracy and freedom has been imperiled since 1945. 
    We, as a country, have displaced the priorities of Americans who have gone through a depression and world war.  Instead, we have opened the door the those with an angry agenda against success which they had never achieved, guilt of not trying to achieve and the desire to erode freedoms so that they can claim a sense of justice. (school prayer, religious holiday's, even the word "Christmas".
    The disease of  the advancement of Progressivism is based on the angry agenda and rewriting of American history to fit the agenda. 
    Those that proclaim a hatred to America have never experienced the social and moral might which has defined the USA to any other country in the world.
    We help every country with any natural disaster. Who help us when we have a natural disaster? Those citizens who hate America know that they have the freedom to communicate their agenda.  They know about Normandy, Iwo Jima, Pearl Harbor, Gettysburg as a testimonial of the sacrifice for their free speech and hatred of country that provides the freedom. 
    Personal responsibility, financially and socially, are certain traits that citizens who hate us possess.

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    Jewelsposted 10 years ago

    I've spoken to many Americans who hate America.  The main reason they can't leave is because they can't afford to.  They are stuck with the difficulties of the minimum wage which is below poverty line in many other countries.  Many are living in third world conditions.  Who can leave the country when they can't afford a passport let alone an airfare.  And this is why they hate it.

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       Jeffsaltposted 10 years agoin reply to this

       No, they "hate" America because they are frustrated and feel that their problems are unique to themselves and are waiting for someone to "fix" it for them instead of being proactive.

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       Rickster56posted 9 years agoin reply to this

       That is a good reason while so many rich people live in this country there are too many that are living in poverty and with bad health that don't get the same medical attention as rich people. It's not a question of being proactive.

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       Deborah Sextonposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       That's not true. I'm a nurse and know for a fact that medical treatment does not depend on whether someone is rich or not. The poor are treated as well as the rich. There is a chance now for everyone to get medical insurance in America,

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    trainerlexposted 10 years ago

    I don't "hate" the United States, but am often embarrassed to be an American. I have looked into immigration laws in many other nations with a similiar quality of life: Canada, the UK, France, and some South American countries. I cannot afford it. I can't afford the fees, and I can't afford to support myself once I get there. I'm middle class, but unskilled with no college degree, so don't qualify to work in any of my prospective countries. I've been trying to find online work, including passive earnings on HubPages, that will let me live where ever I want, but have to put in 40 hours a week at my day job to keep up with student loan payments and living expenses. I also have fibromyalgia, which makes it impossible to do anything on the side. I tried college for years, but I just cannot work and do school at the same time.
    
    Yeah, I could just abandon everything and go... but I've always had a strong sense of responsibility. I am 29 and have never been late on a bill in my life. I take care of my stay-at-home husband who suffers from extreme anxiety issues. While he also has a dislike for the United States, moving to another nation is not something he has an open mind to.
    
    So, my reasons for staying are both financial and family based. It's always a trade, no matter what decision you are making. If you pick one thing, you lose the other. My husband and marriage is more important to me than being proud of my nation of choice, but that doesn't mean I won't complain about our culture and government. NOTHING is ever perfect, so there is always something to complain about. I will keep day dreaming of the day I am able to move away...

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       Deborah Sextonposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Stop complaining & start supporting America, or move to another country and become a squatter. If you can't find anything good about America, at least you can obviously afford to support yourself here. You don't deserve the USA

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       Rickster56posted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Shut up Sexton you don't even know whats going on in this country.

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       Deborah Sextonposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       You're rude and childish, grow up

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    aliasisposted 10 years ago

    I think you might be equating people who criticize things about America with "hating America." People can criticize the government, social problems, etc - that doesn't mean they hate their home.
    
    Also... "why don't they just leave"? Haha, other countries aren't exactly handing out visas to disgruntled Americans, you know. Moving to a different country is HARD.

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       Ruby H Roseposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Agreed, we may hate the way things are done around here, but we are not hated like we are in other con tries and yeah, visas don't come easy.

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       Deborah Sextonposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       You said "People can criticize the government, social problems, etc"
       You are right we can, and with no repercussion, which is another great thing about America. Try that in some other countries

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       MonkeyShine75posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I agree, we're free to criticize, and that's one reason I love America, freedom of speech. I come from a military family, I've lived elsewhere, and there's no place like America

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    Cre8torposted 10 years ago

    I think Americans who claim they hate America really just hate the corruption and greed that seems to be leading the country. (anger) I think America takes a hit because it's what they know and where they live. Deep down, they know leaving isn't feasible (frustration) and wouldn't make it better...it's a global problem. (overwhelmed) I think the numbers of people who feel this way are increasing with knowledge. It's not that corruption and greed haven't always existed...but cameras and recorders didn't. The truth is much harder to hide, surfaces much faster and spread far wider than ever. (anger overload) Grrrr! "I hate America" is what comes out.
    
    I don't hate America (get sick of the whiny bunches) but I can sympathize with the anger and frustration on a larger scale.

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    M. T. Dremerposted 10 years ago

    I think hate is a strong word, I would rather use 'selective shame'. It's a lot like family. Everyone has that family member that is just an embarrassment. You still love them, because they're family, but you would rather not have that person speak on behalf of your entire crew. 
    
    Every American has things they agree with from our history and things they disagree with. I think where the problem comes in is what we consider patriotic. Just because John Smith has a bigger American flag on his lawn doesn't make him more patriotic or loving towards his country than John Doe next door. And, just because someone is vocal about America's problems, doesn't mean they hate the country. Wanting to make this a better place is the purest form of patriotism.

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       Ruby H Roseposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       We come from a huge landmass with many opinions.  I am thankful we can express them.  Not hate so much as we can make a change.

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    darrensurreyposted 10 years ago

    The grass is always greener on the other side. Same goes for Brits and Britain!

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       Mickjiposted 10 years agoin reply to this

       It is the same all around the world also Trust me.

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    Tom Schumacherposted 10 years ago

    Personally I do not believe Americans hate this country. However, I do feel that we as a nation need to focus on uniting instead of dividing our common interests.  Unfortunately, though, the media is much to blame for constantly stoking the embers of disagreement and dissatisfaction to create a flame of interest in order to sell advertising space.

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       Jeffsaltposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       "If it bleeds, it leads".  The media likes nothing better than a controversy....however meaningless it might be....they will beat it to death.

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       promisemposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       As someone who has spent his life in media, I couldn't disagree more. There are good journalists and bad journalists like there are good doctors and bad doctors, etc.

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       Jeffsaltposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Im sure there are good journalists.  The problem is cable news (FNC, MSNBC) are all skewed are one political persuasion.  CNN has become irrelevant.  The major network news is becoming ore and more like local news..."if it bleeds, it leads".

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       promisemposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Jeffsalt, I totally agree that FNC and MSNBC cater to the right and the left. I have no respect for them.

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       Jackie Lynnleyposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I think media is very biased and nothing like it use to be. They are into politics now and they will hide a story against their man just as long as they can and ask no questions. I saw it with Benghazi and it really shocked me! Now it makes me mad.

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       Sullifyposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Jackie, it's clear you aren't looking at this objectively. Because you hate Obama, "you knowed he done some wrong", to you it seems media was protecting him. But, remember how on Fox it was "treason" to question Bush's march into Iraq? Be objective.

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    jgwhite66posted 10 years ago

    I don't wish to upset anyone but for a long time now the USA has been suffering a sickness. I don't mean all of the American people, I mean the internal politics and foreign policy of the USA. From pre-Vietnam to the present day the USA has failed to live up to its own ideals, preffering to spend it's wealth on arms and fighting unwanted foreign wars, instead of  the the American people themselves. Who will pay for the multi-trillion dollar deficit the country is now faced with as a result?

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       Jackie Lynnleyposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Who will take care of our Veterans who are dying everyday waiting for someone to make the VA  shape up instead of handing them a turkey!

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       Sullifyposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Jackie, this is getting embarrassing. It's the Bush administration's fault we even have so many veterans in need. And actually, it's the right-wing who's had a mission to strip funding for the VA. It's like you just project your faults as a defense!

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    Jonathan Hammondposted 10 years ago

    I never got why people are so EAGER to just flee their problems. Why don't we just try to push on? I mean, I know things have changed since the 1930's, but... they were able to tough it out then, why not now?
    And before I hear someone say something along the lines of "well, the world wasn't as crappy back then," let's not forget that small shanty towns were the norm across the nation and that the rest of the world was either a) being threatened by an imperialistic nation or b) already under the boot of an imperialistic nation.

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    Roy Savageposted 10 years ago

    I don't really think that "Americans" hate America.  The problem is that they are frustrated with our Government and what the current administration is doing to it.  The "Government" is $17 Billion dollars in debt, we didn't ask for it, nor did we authorize it.  The "Government" is engaged in wars across the globe and putting their noses into other peoples business, we didn't authorize that.  The "Government", it's Legislators, Law Makers, Lobbyists and Big Business are ruining our great country and what "We The People" stand for.  Unfortunately this is all being done to us and not by us.  The representatives that were put into position by us have failed us and our country.  So, I believe, when someone says that they hate America or Americans, it's a General statement of frustration and anger against our Government not the people.  Sad thing is, it's them against us.  There is so much going on that we don't truly know who to blame and just when we think we have the answers, the Powers-That-Be, pull the Slight-of-hand trick on us and then we are all left guessing what happened, why it happened and what do we do about it.  We seriously need to regain our Constitutional rights, take back the power from the Government and lead this country down the path that our Founding Fathers laid out for us and this great country.  Often I read quotes from: Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, George Washington and others and wonder if they are turning over in their graves at what Capitalism, War, Big Business and Organized Religion have done to this country.  We are a long way off from making a change, but as time goes on, more and more citizens are waking to the fact that all is not lost and we can and must do something about it.

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       Freeway Flyerposted 10 years agoin reply to this

       That's $17 trillion in debt.

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    bjjpposted 10 years ago

    In my opinion, one should not run from a problem but face it head on, then get on with your life. I don't think people hate America, not at all, in fact I happen to love America but despise the ones trying to run the country. They are letting illegals in the country and giving them free living, cars, education, and other special things that the Americans have to pay taxes for. We provide them their luxuries by working our tails off and paying for many things they are exempt from.
    
      I believe in equality and everyone here should become a citizen of the USA by doing it legally. The illegals should not get any privileges. It is only fair to the true citizens of the US if we work side by side and earn our keep. The native Americans had to learn English so anyone coming into the country today should also be required to learn it instead of Americans learning other languages.
    
      The government has gone crazy with spending on many luxuries and they also need to stop the waste and help organizations and individuals stop hunger and homelessness in the US. We are supposed to be the best country in the world, according to some but in order to earn that title, we need to stop the unnecessary spending and fix things right.

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       Jeffsaltposted 10 years agoin reply to this

       I understand your frustration about "illegals" but let's call a spade a spade here...you're talking about immigrants from Mexico and Latin America.  With the exception of native-Americans, we were ALL immigrants at one time

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    maddotposted 10 years ago

    Maybe it's because your government does things that the "haters" find repugant. I live in Australia and I'm ashamed of what our current government is doing eg refusing rassylum seekerse entry, cutting $$ to environmental programs including carbon tax, running down public education, allowing multi millionaire miners to destory  and exploit the land that belongs to everyone,  and basically helping the rich get richer and the porr get poorer..probably similar concerns to those expressed by the American "haters". I don't hate the country i live in but I despair at the ignorance and lack of compassion exhibited by the current government.

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    Harishprasadposted 10 years ago

    It is about a great country you are talking about. Do you see that about such guys who we hate, we do not even like to mention their names when we talk. In my view,such people are rare who are absolutely against America, however as citizens, we have always our bags of complaints ready. This cannot be called hate, on the contrary, this is democracy and every citizen has this right to praise the Government/Country when things are moving in the right direction,otherwise there will be heaps of criticism by the citizens. This attitude is not detrimental at all. Rather, it is constructive and conducive to a good govenrance.

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       Jeffsaltposted 10 years agoin reply to this

       Only in America do you have the "right" to hate without fear of reprecussion.

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    KenDeanAgudoposted 10 years ago

    I am not sure why American hate America for i am not an American citizen but maybe it's because of their government. I have heard plenty of bad criticism about President Obama. I have also read that Obama was a terrorist that keeps on bombing other countries like Iraq, Pakistan and etc.
    
    Most of the American people care for humanity and the government is not doing what must be done. So I guess this is the reason why some American people make rebellion against its own country.

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    Ericdierkerposted 10 years ago

    I reckon that when I enlisted I loved my country enough to believe it did good.
    I imagine that when I walked down and old road called "Old Indian Trail" and let the rain soaked dirt ooze between my toes I love my country.
    
    I know that when I found out my cancer was likely cause by White Sands nuclear testing. I still loved my country.
    
    If someone has hate in them, a country is a better place to put it then a spouse or a child. Let us who fall to hate at all, fall to hating something that really cannot be harmed by it.
    
    Let us all love each other enough to let us hate "things". We hate far too much each other.
    So please hate my country and leave my homeless alone.

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    Lady_Eposted 10 years ago

    I think it's the leaders who are doing their head in. I live in UK and have noticed that lots of Americans are upset and confused about the Obama health care issue - that's just one of many issues. If they could change their leaders, they will live "happily ever after" in their Country.

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       Jeffsaltposted 10 years agoin reply to this

       Change their leaders to what?  Seemingly the two Party's are totally dissimilar yet when we change administrations we get more of the exact same.  The problem is that we, the people, don't DEMAND true change.

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    birdingatmapsedgeposted 10 years ago

    I'm not sure that many people really understand what they are saying when they say "I hate America", the same way that I don't think they fully understand "I love America".
    
    At a point in my life, I did feel that I was growing to hate my country.  Obese, ignorant, apathetic, entitled, racist, cold, lazy, pissing their lives away drooling in front of the TV or some portable idiot device. 
    
    I taught Biology at the university level, and saw firsthand what the education system was producing.  A shocking number of students thought Australia was in Europe, that Bolivia was in Africa.  Nobody could name the leader of any other nation, even Canada (I was in New York).
    
    So I did what I see so many people urging "America Haters" to do: I left.  I left for another country, perhaps the most hostile place for an American to live in the Western Hemisphere.  I became an expatriate, or an "Ex-patriot" to some. 
    
    The first sensation was refreshment.  Freedom from the endless red tape, a tropical climate, a passionate people, and biodiversity beyond my wildest dreams. 
    
    Now, as I approach the end of my second year, I feel a very different sensation.  I feel understanding.
    
    As I write this, my power flickers in and out, as well as my internet.  Random, brutal violence is a daily occurrence which bears no consequence to the perpetrator.  I haven't been able to reliably buy flour, toilet paper, or fresh milk for more than a year, and when they have it, lines take hours.  I've never seen sugar for sale in my town.
    
    I still feel the same about my country's problems.  I still loathe ignorance and apathy, two plagues of the American people, and people in general. 
    
    But now I meet these issues with a sense of determination, rather than contempt and smug self-righteousness.  My country is my true home, but then so is the world.  Americans are my family, but then again, so is every other human on Earth.  I love my country, but I know I can make it better.
    
    "I hate America" is as foolish to say as "I love America" if you know nothing BUT America.  If you ate nothing but oatmeal every day of your life, you would hate it or love it, but your opinion is irrelevant if you don't know what any other food tastes like.
    
    So leave.  All of you.  Haters and Lovers.  If you like it better elsewhere, I wish you luck and happiness.
    
    However, if you fall in love with your country, understand her for the first time, then you owe it to her to stop talking and start doing something about it...

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       Ruby H Roseposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Well said, it is where we were born, see how others live, appreciate all life, love the way you expressed it.

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       Jackie Lynnleyposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I love America and I want it to be as it always was not as how people want to come in and change it. People come because it is so good and then want it to be like where they come from, or to claim it like Mexico! Burn our flags while we support them!

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    Mikeg422posted 10 years ago

    I don't understand this question. Are you saying that hating our government is the same as hating our country? If that is what you mean, then you may have to look up the word patriotism- love that people feel for their country; in no definition is love of a countries' government mentioned.
    
    I hate our government. Not because which side of the coin happens to be the figure head right now, but because in reality our government is run by the corporations, the banks, and different special interest organizations. All of the branches of gov. are now corrupted, and have out lived their usefulness. Our gov. also uses news media as a constant psychological buffer, to keep people afraid, distracted, and under control. I don't hate my country, I don't hate her people, but our corrupt antiquated government, Oh yes I hate them heartily, our forefathers fought to provide us with better than this, and we deserve better than what we have today.

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       Jackie Lynnleyposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Amen; if Obama gets this climate change going & the rest of the terrorist out of Gitmo & brought here & more terrorist in via refugees & all the illegals legal voting to keep his control in office then we are done for; that is all the

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       Sullifyposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Jackie, I hope you're being sarcastic... If not, your ignorance is embarrassing. Climate change has been discussed for decades by scientists (the lefties you take for granted). Also, roughly half of our ancestors came here illegally. Fear much?

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    Sven Bargenbarsonposted 10 years ago

    Because Americans are terrible people who care more about money than anything else, and naturally living around such psychotic, fake-y people leaves one feeling lonely and sad. But cheer up, you can BUY things, smoke weed, and play x-box! Go red white and blue!

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    glenn wallaceposted 10 years ago

    As many have said, it's flawed thinking to equate criticism with hatred.
    
    As for those critical of the U.S., I've heard it described this way: That there are two ways to love something.
    
    First, you can love like a child, unconditionally, unquestioning, entirely.
    Secondly, you can love like a parent, with the same love in your heart, but still be able to deliver constructive criticism because you really do want the best for the thing you love.

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       Jeffsaltposted 10 years agoin reply to this

       Amen

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       Ruby H Roseposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       exactly

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       Larry Wallposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       The ability to criticize, question and doubt and eventually remove public officials through the ballot box gives us a chance to fix everything. Those that have all the answer to all the problems should seek public office.

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       Jackie Lynnleyposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I have the answer; kick the ones there all out of office!

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    JMWillisposted 10 years ago

    You should check out the show The Newsroom. There's a clip on Youtube where Jeff Daniels' character explains why America is not the greatest country in the world. It's very insightful.
    
    I hate the government which runs this country. If I had the means to leave this country, I would, but there's no guarantees that the next place will be any better and I would have to start my whole life over which is almost too frightening. The majority of the people in this country can barely afford to support their families and it's not because of bad life choices. No matter where anyone goes, it's always going to be hard. Someone is going to find something they don't like about where they live. I am liking my country less and less with each hardship I encounter - my job, my living situation, the legal system, healthcare, etc. I can't afford to live anywhere else, so like most people who hate their government, I have to just remain miserable, but suck it up and deal with it.

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       Jeffsaltposted 10 years agoin reply to this

       Instead of focusing on your hardships think if the blessings you enjoy in the most free country on the planet.  The key to finding happiness in this country is to find something you are passionate about and pursue that as a career.

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    sheilalaposted 10 years ago

    Other countries don't want Americans polluting them.
    My brother was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. He paid into the system his entire life but once he was no longer able to work, he was told he didn't qualify for help and wasn't able to receive the much needed treatment to buy him another few months.  He was given a pill and died quietly.  Meanwhile, my friend from Russia brought her parents here and signed them up right away for care. She said illegals have more rights here than long standing Americans, everyone in Russia knows that. She stated Americans are well known for not taking care of their veterans or their sick...look around at the Americans living under  bridges. You have to have an address to get care.  She said it's too bad your brother isn't foreign. Lots of foreigners come here for cancer treatment because it's free.  My boyfriend is a doctor from Germany and said he would have been taken care of right away there. Once we're married I will be moving there and I love it, it's so clean and healthy. No one is worked to death or denied health care and allowed to just die.
    My son moved to Europe and loves it, other than the embarrassment of having to say he's American, he occasionally says he's Canadian to avoid embarrassment when he's in a social circle of professionals.   I can't wait to get out of this violent bible thumping country of angry people.

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       Jeffsaltposted 10 years agoin reply to this

       Yes, this country is SO rotten to the core that people the world over are waiting in line for entry visas.  We have the freedoms that allow you to spout off at will without fear of repression.  Think about it.

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    TarrinLupoposted 10 years ago

    This country is dropping like a rock on the freedom index. There are a few glimmers of hope like the Free State Project, but every state except New Hampshire is getting less free every year. The big problem is all the other countries governments are terrible too. There is nowhere left to go where you can live free and be left alone. When someone says, "Love it or leave it",  it is the same logic as being told you have to have cancer, but you get to pick what kind you have. Can I just say I don't want cancer? Nope, every country you go to thinks they own you.

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       TarrinLupoposted 10 years agoin reply to this

       http://www.heritage.org/index/ranking

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       Rickster56posted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Try Venezuela

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    emmarsposted 10 years ago

    A very interesting question.
    
    Officially I'm American (through birth), and have just been forced to move here. To start with I really hated it due to the ridiculously complicated systems, stubbornly continuing to do things when they are clearly wrong (e.g. Entree means 'starter' in french not 'main' / government shutdown), and inability for people to listen and use their brain when asked a question they have not been 'trained' to answer.
    
    However, as we stay here longer and meet more people, we are loving the friendliness, openness and how inviting people are out here socially..... as well as the weather (of course).
    
    As an 'outsider' the culture of America seems very greedy and all about the individual ('what does it do for ME', 'what do I get from it') rather than for the greater good of society. Prime example is how confused people get when we ask about volunteering opportunities, oh yeah and the healthcare bill.... it seems completely ridiculous for anyone to oppose it. Just saying, but the US has similar taxes to the UK, but the UK gets free healthcare....
    
    For those US citizens who want to leave.... good luck getting a bank account abroad, the IRS has well and truly screwed that up for you!

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       mimi2661posted 9 years agoin reply to this

       I do so agree!! It's not the people, necessarily, it is the system of government. And it is way more complicated than just blaming the president. I am all for the health care act. It has been great for my family.

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    Mickjiposted 10 years ago

    There is an old saying : " The neighbor's garden is alway much greener". It means that every person like what they don't have and would want it. This does not guarantee that it is good. You don't really know how the other countries are, because you have never lived there but you will find many people saying "Ah if only I could live there, I would live well". People always dislike their country until someone else touch it. If you will try to say to one of those person that a symbol of America is nasty, they will probably argue against you saying that you are wrong. This is because they born there and inside... somewhere deep inside of them, they love their country.

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    itssarahjposted 10 years ago

    Because people are irrational beings who speak on emotions. Plus, its easier said than done.

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    vlogan25posted 10 years ago

    Most of the benefits that you experience in America and take for granted. Were put in place by men and women who looked at America very critically, questioned the status quo and actively worked to change those injustices. To some in there day they were looked upon as being haters of American culture and its way of life.
    
    There were men and women in their time who asked the very same question that you are asking yourself this very day "why don't they just leave?"
    
    The members of the Anti-Renter movement, Dorr's rebellion and the other clashes that shook the status quo and came to allow the vote for landless white men in this country.
    
    Ask yourself how you would fare today had these restless, hateful men not been willing to put their lives on the line for what they felt were their god given rights? This is just one example of many throughout our history. Perhaps you are misinterpreting what you are observing and hearing.  You could be mistaking criticism for hatred.

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       Jeffsaltposted 10 years agoin reply to this

       Well said

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    kerlund74posted 10 years ago

    I think it is the same in other countries to. And that it is human... It is easy to just criticize and to think that the grass is greener on the other side. But if you start a discussion and ask what can be improved, they often just continue complaining. It's in some peoples way to be...

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    AlinaKittiposted 10 years ago

    Many Americans cannot speak a second language... so unless their prime place is Canada or England....
    
    It's hard and expensive to move.
    
    American nature is to complain. Most likely they are joking. That's what I've found.

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       Mickjiposted 10 years agoin reply to this

       If  you like another place, by living there you will learn the language. Of course you will never talk like a person who born there, but you will understand most of the things around you.

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       Jeffsaltposted 10 years agoin reply to this

       There's an old axiom...what do you call someone who,speaks two languages?  Bilingual.  Three languages?  Trilingual.  One language?  American

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    Freeway Flyerposted 10 years ago

    I'm not sure if there are that many people who hate everything about America. In many cases, these may just be people who hate everything about life in general.
    
    Others, like me, who often get frustrated with certain things about my country, probably see a country as similar to a family. It often gets on your nerves, but it's still home.

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       mimi2661posted 9 years agoin reply to this

       I enjoy many things about this country, but do not have money to travel and take those things in live. People really should open their eyes, but most citizens of fascist states do not realize what has happened until too late.

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    tehgybposted 10 years ago

    Its not so much that we hate America, but more that we hate the idiots running the place, and roughly half the idiots living here.
    It wouldn't be any better elsewhere, the same kind of idiots run and live in those places as well.

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    lynnfr0mctposted 10 years ago

    it's just as hard if not harder to move out of the usa than it is to sneak in.

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       Ruby H Roseposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Amazing, isn't it.

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       mimi2661posted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Totally agree!! If I had the money and means I would leave.

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    whatever9785posted 10 years ago

    GIve me the money and im out. I grew up in poverty i live in poverty and served in the military and saw so many wrong things that americans did to people we are "helping". almost ever English speaking county doesnt want me because i dont have a skill in need. America the greedy. our government is full of corruption. its better to be rich and guilty then poor and innocent. if corporation or government agency cant make a dime off of it then they dont care and have given up all more values. We the people serve the government when they should be serving us. why raise the minimum wage of government employees but not the common. i guess they need more to live happily? americans are nothing but sheep, read it.

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       Jeffsaltposted 10 years agoin reply to this

       Give you the money?  So you want a handout to leave.  You're part of the overall problem.  Everyone wants something for nothing.  If you want out get off your ass and "earn" your way out!

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       Deborah Sextonposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       You do need to leave the Us, but you'll have to raise your own money. What true American would support your anti-American attitude? None

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       maxmantaposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Free to get in, but you have to pay to get out?  That's not good, man.

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       claptonaposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       First, master the English language.
       Not the hoods lingo, not your bro's lingo, but the right way to express yourself in words.
       Then think about bigger and grander things.

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    Jeffsaltposted 10 years ago

    The "I hate America" syndrome is a false predicate based on an individual's frustration with issues, government, a feeling of helplessness, etc.  We live in such a large country, that is so diverse, which can give someone the feeling they are in a rowboat without any oars.  It's not that "they" hate America but rather a feeling of not knowing where to turn to address their own particular problems/frustrations.

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       mimi2661posted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Give me a break. America has become corporate-fascist and a police state. It's more than simple frustration. This affects more than those who do not know where to turn.

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       NiaLeeposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Thank you, people often use the wrong words to express their emotions or visions, they sometimes are even confused about their very thought, ideas, feelings, understanding… today, people use a few strong words too easily: hate, love, kill...

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    wingedcentaurposted 9 years ago

    This little essay is in response to a question asked by a hubber, two years ago, but, perhaps, still on the minds of some people today: America--love it or leave it! read more

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50. 0

    Deborah Sextonposted 9 years ago

    I love America and no matter where I go in the world and even though I may enjoy myself tremendously when I visit other countries, there is no place like the United States. I think anyone hating or strongly disliking America should get out and stay out.
    Let them tell someone who has served in the armed forces here that they hate America and they'll find that our service men will take great offense in it.
    It takes years to become a citizen, why would someone who hates America become one?

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       gmwilliamsposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       SAY IT, SISTER!

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       wba108@yahoo.composted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Amen Deborah, if you hate America you're  either a brainwashed leftist or a pampered whining baby who is too naive to how the rest of the world lives or a little of both!

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