My Role as an American

For the longest time I have thought of myself as having other countries ideas and preferring their culture to that of America's. I prefer English television shows and comedy to that of America's. I agree with the health care policies of other countries. And don't get me started on English punk rock. Activities and things that unify us as Americans fail to spark an interest inside of me. Most American comedy revolves around insult and slapstick. Our national sports are Baseball, Football and especially Nascar, none of which I have any interest in.

The start of a unifying culture of American's began with Blackface minstrelsy. From then on, it can be argued that the American Culture has risen to a higher moral standard, but I fail to see that. It may be not be the social norm anymore to put on black face and dance,  but it is common place to use violence and insult of other races for entertainment and comedy purposes. I have always preferred the comedy of the British version of the Office to the American. Also, the British humor of the IT Crowd trumps any other American show to date.

I think that blackface minstrelsy being the first true American entertainment set the stage for insult and slapstick to pave the way for popular American entertainment today. This may unify some in the American culture, but not me. I'm not sure why this humor doesn't resonate in me the way it does others. I wouldn't say that I am more cultured or more mature than any one who prefers American humor to British humor.

Finally, If you do have the chance to check out some British comedy shows. Check out the IT Crowd. The writing is brilliant and the actors are amazing. All 3 seasons are currently on Netflix instant. Also, check out The Office and The Mighty Boosh.