Reflexiones sobre el carácter americano

Abstract

The homo americanus was defined in the 18th century by the difference in lifestyle with that of the old European whence he had come. The American idiosyncrasy can be seen in all social and existential aspects. From a political point of view, the origin of the two chamber congress responds to particular American circumstances and not as a replica of the European model. The concept of private property is not only a social model which has imposed itself on the whole business world but lies at the very heart of the American character. Likewise, pragmatism invades each and every social sphere, becoming another fundamental and defining characteristic of the American way of life. As a result of the American's inherent distrust of governement, particularly in the manner which it can limit the freedom of the individual, we find radical individualism as the true comerstone of the American philosophy and mentality.