American Values

Kingsolver challenges the notion that there is only one right way to be an American. She believes that American national identity after the September 11 attacks has turned people toward an unexamined rage and xenophobia. She argues that people have responded to pacifist efforts with vitriol, and call any who oppose warfare un-American. American ideology is based in violence and the acceptance of war as a way to solve conflicts abroad. Through warfare, Kingsolver posits, Americans have exerted their dominance over other parts of the world. Kingsolver strongly resist the notion that American values must be based on the embrace of violence and killing, and believes that pacifist means that focus on caring for the hungry and those in need, are the higher American value that must be embraced. What other American values may be harmful to American and global interests? Which values should be upheld...