Why Do New Zealanders Dismiss American Culture as Terrible?

It's a common sight to see New Zealanders dismiss American culture, often viewing the United States as inferior or unworthy of much respect. This perception is not only amusing but also points to a complex set of reasons rooted in cultural, political, and personal factors. Let's explore why New Zealanders might harbor such feelings and what this says about the relationship between the two nations.

Culture Clash and Exaggerated Self-Importance

One of the key reasons behind this robust dismissal often lies in the perception of the American sense of self-importance. Many New Zealanders believe that Americans have an exaggerated, almost delusional, view of their country as the cradle of innovation, freedom, and global influence. This overestimation can be seen in everything from American movie franchises like Team America to the Scary Movie series, where the American arrogance is satirized to the hilt.

Criticism of US Policies and Actions

There is a significant group of New Zealanders who take issue with various American policies, both at home and abroad. The perceived love for warmongering, sanctions, and political actions that undermine other governments can be a source of frustration for those who value peace and diplomacy. New Zealand, known as a neutral and peace-loving nation, draws a stark contrast against what it sees as aggressive American foreign policy.

Critical Views on US Politics and Societal Issues

The political divide in the United States, particularly the tensions between conservatives and liberals, is another point of criticism. Many New Zealanders, especially within the liberal spectrum, view the current political landscape in the U.S. as chaotic and unmanageable. This is especially true regarding the Trump presidency, where New Zealanders often saw a regression in global cooperation and international relations.

Distinct Cultural and Historical Backgrounds

It's worth noting that the cultural and historical backgrounds of both nations play a significant role in shaping these perceptions. The earthy, laid-back, and nature-centric lifestyle in New Zealand is drastically different from the more urban and industrial essence of the U.S. This natural living, combined with their conservationist policies, can make New Zealanders feel uneasy about the environmental and economic implications of American lifestyles and policies.

Reservation on International Alliances and Power Dynamics

Another less discussed but equally important reason is the New Zealanders' stance on their relationship with the U.S. While many are grateful for the defense umbrella provided by the U.S., they can't help but feel that they have achieved a far more balanced relationship compared to some other countries. For instance, New Zealand was excluded from the “Five Eyes” sharing category, which anger many New Zealanders. They now see the U.S. in a different light when it comes to global dominance and alliances.

Conclusion: Balancing Perceptions

Ultimately, the dismissive attitude towards American culture among New Zealanders is a reflection of their distinct cultural identity and political beliefs. While it might seem trivial from an objective standpoint, it highlights the complex interactions between global power dynamics and cultural nuances. Both countries, with their rich histories and diverse populations, will continue to evolve and navigate their relationships based on these and other factors.