What Canadians Dislike About American Culture: Divides and Cultural Differences

There is no monolithic culture in America. According to Colin Woodard's book "American Nations," the United States is made up of 11 distinct cultural regions. While accents and some cultural elements might be similar between the two countries, the differences run much deeper. Two sets of cultures dominate the landscape: the Northern states (Yankeedom, Midlands, and Left Coast) and the Southern states (Deep South, Tidewater, Greater Appalachia, and El Norte). This cultural divide has been a source of friction throughout the country's history. Almost all swing states in the U.S. are divided along these lines.

The Culture of America: A Divided Nation

Nationally, several aspects of American culture disturb Canadians. Two major issues stand out: the overreliance on guns and extreme economic inequality.

The Gun Culture

Gun use in the U.S. is more than just a tool; it has become a cultural phenomenon and a religiosity. There is a widespread cultural acceptance that it is necessary to own and bear arms, even to the detriment of public safety. For instance, school shootings are not uncommon, and there is often justification for such actions based on the perceived need to protect oneself and one's community with firearms. Canada, by contrast, has much stricter regulations on gun ownership, and the cultural acceptance of guns is much lower. This disconnect can be stark and unsettling to Canadians who value public safety and community over individual armament.

Economic Inequality

Inequality in the United States reaches unprecedented levels among wealthy Western nations. This economic disparity exacerbates social issues and contributes to a sense of alienation and disaffection. The book "The Spirit Level" by Richard Gerein and Kate Pickett provides a comprehensive analysis of how economic inequality leads to a range of social ills, from higher incarceration rates to poor health outcomes. This inequality is evident in various forms, but perhaps most glaringly in the healthcare system and the prison industrial complex, where individuals are incarcerated not just for offenses but also to generate substantial profit.

The Southern Block: A More Toxic Culture

The culture of the Southern block, while not universally prevalent, is particularly concerning for Canadians. These regions tend to prioritize individualism over community values. This attitude can lead to a sense of divisiveness and a lack of empathy for broader societal needs. In contrast, the Northern states, including parts of Canada, place a higher value on communal well-being. This difference can sometimes result in a sense of otherness or even antagonism between the two regions.

For example, the Southern states often embody a more individualistic ethos, which can result in policies and practices that prioritize individual rights over communal benefits. This individualism leads to policies that can be harsh and at times inhumane, such as the for-profit prison system. In these institutions, the primary concern is not rehabilitation but profit. The high incarceration rates are alarmingly higher in the South, contributing to a cycle of inequality and social dysfunction.

Conclusion: Navigating Cultural Differences

The cultural differences between Canada and the United States are not inherently bad. However, the increasingly toxic aspects of American culture, particularly in the South, can be disconcerting and even distressing for Canadians. It is crucial to recognize and address these differences to foster a more understanding and harmonious relationship between the two nations.

Understanding the underlying cultural divides can help both countries navigate their relationship more effectively. By acknowledging these differences and working towards more inclusive policies, both nations can move towards a more equitable and compassionate future.