Friedman's Theory of Everything

Response to Friedman's 6/1/03 NYT editorial: "A Theory of Everything" (sent 6/1/03)

Thomas,

Your theory is fundamentally correct. People whose economies, political systems, technologies and culture do not mesh with ours feel ostracized and, perhaps, wish they were Americans...or at least much closer to what we are (warts and all) then the state in which they find themselves.

But your theory does not account for all the reasons for malaise and feelings against us. Consider the possibilities beyond 'hatred:' jealousy or envy; fear of being left behind because they perceive their governments as weak and irrelevant, yet they depend upon them for their livelihood, or medical care or patronage or pensions or...whatever.

Consider that the protestors who garner so much publicity for ranting against globalization and America may not represent the views of the common people in their countries. Consider also that the publicity is what they really want. There may be a smidgen of the truth in their rantings, but mostly they are over the edge and need their egos stroked, which the press dutifully accommodates.

Consider also that, as far as I know, people do not clamor to enter other countries as they clamor to live in ours...

You travel extensively and seem to do your best to find out what's on the minds of people in those places. That's good, though I suspect that you talk mostly with other journalists, the intelligensia or the ruling elites. Consider that they may not represent the general feelings of people. They may be speaking for the power structure in those countries and America is a threat to them if they do not embrace the reality of the world we live in that is shaped by America.

Your Theory of Everything may reflect only the part of the elephant that you are touching.

I will keep reading your columns as you refine your theory. Keep at it. Your insights are valuable to me, if not always correct. I appreciate your work. Unfortunately I missed your speech in person at St. Michael's College in Vermont a few months ago, but it was well formed and well presented.