Why the USA is a disgrace

[abaris]

After all, a nation is the sum of its people. If the people can be altruistic, so can a nation, and conversely, if people happen to be self-serving, so do whole groups of them.

Not, it isn't. It's the sum of it's politicians the individuals have elected. And the US is one of the best examples of it's individuals not always agreeing with the policy made in their names. Especially when it came to war. As could be seen with Vietnam and to a lesser degree with Iraq. Lesser, because there is no longer a draft in place. And lesser because the news coverage toed the line as opposed to the 60ies and early 70ies.

Never mistake the people for the state. People are diverse, whatever policy their nation enforces.