From: Brett Paatsch (bpaatsch@bigpond.net.au)
Date: Sun Jul 20 2003 - 03:40:42 MDT
[apologies if this is a resend - new cable ISP is finiky]
> Spudboy writes:
>
> <<It'd be tricky to patch over the fundamental cultural
> difference: cricket, rugby and australian footy vs
> baseball, and american football. alejandro>>
>
> More than sports, other cultural values, would sink any
> fusion of nations. Plus, there is no economic advantage
> to be had by the Australians. What does America have
> that Australia would envy?
Well, just speaking for one Aussie.
1) The Bill of Rights
2) A military and economic engine that provides the
opportunity to negotiate with all other nations on at least
equal terms. "Might" may not make "right" but it's a fair
fall-back position in 2003.
3) The ability to vote for, or against, particular US
presidential candidates ;-)
4) Unfettered access to some US markets perhaps
particularly agriculture.
> It would be a losing proposition for them. I did find
> it humorous that an academic would actually propose
> (perhaps non-seriously) such a venture.
Yeah but a lot can happen, good and bad, in fifty years.
> It would be
> like a wealthy suburb would seeking to merge with
> a working class neighborhood. Not very likely!
Agreed. Not likely real soon anyway.
Brett
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