OK OK that's it!

If it were not for the USA'S "might" most europeans wouldn't have the "right" to govern their own county. The Netherlands, along with several ungrateful countries, would be either part of Germany (twice over)or part of the Soviet block. Ask the Poles and the Slavs how well that worked out. Until countries pay for their own defence, in a significant manner, they are no more then childeren living off their parents generosity.

As far as "cut throat captilism" goes. The very standard of living that you cherish is due to US capitalism. Most new drugs are developed and paid for by the citizens of the United States. Why, because there is no fiscal incentive to develop drugs outside of the US (for the most part). Until the citizens of socialist countries start to pay for the R&D required to develop new drugs and other technologies I would keep the critisism of capitalism down.

Oh yes, "cut throat capitalism" goes beyond new product development. Ask the French, who bailed them out in the 1950's when the French Franc collapsed..The USA! When there is a disaster in ANY part of the world who is there first and contributes the most...The USA. Who is the primary supporter of the United Nations, the throne of Socialism..the USA

The funny part is the technology you will use to respond was developed, perfected, and exported to the world from the USA!

John