Hi Mike,

>I agree with you Carlos has pushed some of his points too far. I also think it is useful for we Americans on the UT to read this and many other posts about the U.S. by members from other countries. Views of skepticism or outright contempt for U.S. actions and policies have become increasingly common, and they come from many different spots around the globe and from people who do not seem like bomb throwers. It would take an act of will to not see that we are less well regarded than we were a few years ago.

I agree with your conclusions. However, I betcha we disagree as to the root causes :-)