My honest view of Americans, after talking to maybe two dozen individuals there and watching their media (never been to the United States): 1. They have a strong will to be independent, despite the willingness to sue for almost anything (including spilling hot coffee on themselves in a restaurant). The right to bear arms is cited as an example of that independence. 2. They have an irrational fear of "socialism" and "communism", even to the degree that they prefer bailouts for the rich to better healthcare. European countries are sometimes called "socialist" or "communist, despite evidence to the contrary. 3. Many Americans are hospitable and will invite you into their homes, at least in the South (despite the habit of "shoot first, ask questions later" of some NRA enthusiasts). It's also not unusual to greet strangers on the street. 4. Many Americans work hard and have several jobs, mostly because jobs there don't pay as well, but also because they're encoueaged to work at a young age. 5. People in the United States are often encouraged to be ambitious and optimistic (and sometimes unrealistic), and they have the attitude of "if you can dream it, you can do it!" 6. Outer appearances are a big deal for many Americans, even to the point where young children are dressed up for pageants (i. e. "Little Miss Perfect"). Teeth whitening products are a typical American phenomenon. 7. Many Americans are curious about the outside world (many young people want to travel), despite the stereotype (partly true) that many Americans also know very little about the rest of the world. 8. Most Americans seem rather proud and patriotic of their country, even though they sometimes don't understand that people around the world can feel the same way about their countries (see Iraq, Afghanistan). 9. As a result of no. 8, some Americans believe the USA "invented" everything, and saved the whole world (saviour complex), something which is a very annoying habit for the 96% who make up the rest of the world. 10. Another annoying habit, is how some Americans (and I mean some) believe that women in European countries are up for anything (sexually), and have low standards, because we don't go hysterical over a nipple on this side of the Pond. Just because nudity isn't regarded as horrible and shameful, it doesn't mean that all women are easy. The two aren't necassarily related.
Erik
Norway