9/01/2005

Who Needs the French???

I find it interesting that when there is some sort of disaster around the world that the U.S. is the first to respond and offer aid. Now that we've been hit with a devastating storm, the countries around the world are dragging their feet. Not that we need their help, we are the lone superpower, but I think a real genuine offer would be nice. The Saudis have said they would try to increase the supply of oil (but I'm sure not by much) and now the French said they are trying to mobilize aid. Honestly what are the French going to do? I don't mean to sound pessimistic or unthankful from those who genuinely want to help, but this help from the French seems forced and only offered to make themselves look good. They are quick to criticize us on everything but slow to offer their very limited help. Its also suspicious that they would offer this help when Louisiana is the one affected. This is territory that they used to own and probably still think they do. I can't recall them every offering aid when Florida has been hit by one of these hurricane monsters. They have offered no real help, only opposition to our efforts since 9/11. There's just something about the French that I can't stand, something that makes me want to look the French in the eye and tell them we don't need nor want their help. That's just my opinion, what do you guys think?

1 comment:

Dr. Tufte said...

I think that all of this is overblown.

There is very little good data worldwide about who helps who with how much. One thing that is certain is that everyone thinks the other folks are stingy.

Also, it is relatively well known that private charitable contributions move inversely with the size of the government (and its ability to help). For example, American are individually generous, but our government is not.

P.S. Even so, the French aren't on my good side at the moment.