Life in the United States

Life in the United States is much the same as in many other developed nations, with a high GDP per capita and a technologically advanced culture. Most major issues concern the economy, health, and politics. However, it should not be asserted that life in the U.S. is by any means perfect, nor that Americans themselves uniformly consider their country to be the best in any sphere of life. Like any society, there are a plethora of issues facing Americans on which they do not agree. Therefore, this article gives only a very general overview of life in America.

Culture

The culture of the United States centers around a complex mixture of Judeo-Christian morals, liberalism, pluralism, democracy, and patriotism (or nationalism). The United States is one of the most democratic societies on Earth, going almost to extremes in some cases. Most Americans feel that freedom of speech includes anything one wishes to say short of saying "Fire!" in a crowded building when there isn't one. However, that same nature of freedom creates issues in American society. For instance, although 75% of Americans believe in angels, the government is bound to protect the rights of atheists. However, Americans follow a large number of beliefs (see Religion). American society is, compared with its European brethren, largely conservative. Opposite to their cousins overseas, Americans, for example, generally shun nudity, but accept violence (in movies and video games). Also, patriotism (or nationalism) is a prevailing, and probably the most uniform influence in the country. Independence Day (July 4) is one of the largest holidays (anti-British sentiment has long since died out, however) involving massive celebrations throughout the country of parades, fireworks, and festivals.

Politics

Politics in the United States is split largely among two main political parties: the Republican party and the Democratic party. The Republicans are a conservative right-wing party and the Democrats are a more liberal, left-wing party. While most Americans tend to favor one side or the other, they are not uniform in their beliefs. America is divided up into 50 administrative units called states which have considerable control over their own laws and issues. For instance, the educational curriculum (see below) is different in each state and is legislated there by separate laws. However, items such as marriages and driver's licenses are valid in every state although they are regulated by the individual state's laws. The federal government of the United States is separated into three distinct branches: the Judiciary, the Legislature, and the Executive Branch. Each operates separately, and each, through constitutional means exercises checks on the other two. The Judiciary is the system of courts throughout the country, with the U.S. Supreme Court at its top with 9 justices. This court has the additional function of deciding the constitutionality of various laws and issues, known as judicial review. The Legislature is made up of a bicameral Congress containing a Senate with 2 senators from each state and a House of Representatives whose membership is based on each state's population. The Executive branch is headed by a President whose job is to enforce the laws and serve as commander-in-chief of the armed forces. The current president is George W. Bush. The President is elected under an electoral college by the people every 4 years and may serve two terms.

Customs

Arts and Entertainment

Holidays