Uncouth Nation: Why Europe Dislikes America Book

Anti-Americanism develops into a generalized, normative dislike of America and all things American, often lacking reasons or concrete arguments. According to Markovits, European elites have appropriated Samuel Huntington's notion of the "clash of civilizations" to support their allegations of an increasing clash between European and American values. They indict America on three levels: it is morally backward, espousing a religious fundamentalism that among other things endorses the death penalty; it is the bastion of "predatory capitalism"; and it is culturally prudish, coarse, and "commodified." In contrast, Europe is said to adhere to "enlightened secularism," with policies that reflect a "considerate welfare state," and led by people who are refined, "savvy and wise."