Anti-Americanism and Political Ideologies. A Comparative Analysis of Left- and Right-Wing Anti-Americanism in Western Europe

Bachelor Thesis , 2015 , 33 Pages , Grade: 1.0

American Studies - Culture and Applied Geography

The purpose of this thesis is to explore the ideological aspects of anti-Americanism by comparing left- and right-wing anti-Americanism in Western Europe.

Based on theoretical analysis and previous research, a framework is established from which an analysis is carried out, with a distinction being made between American values and American actions. The tested hypotheses state that left-wing anti-Americanism is primarily opposed to American values, while right-wing anti-Americanism is more hostile towards American actions. The study finds that left-wing anti-Americanism comes predominantly from the authoritarian Left representing a fundamental difference in values, while right-wing anti-Americanism comes largely in a nationalist form and represents a more situational opposition. This supports the established hypotheses.

Table of Contents

Introduction: an ideological perspective on anti-Americanism

I) Beyond American foreign policy

II) Definitions and theoretical framework
1. Americanism and anti-Americanism
2. Political ideologies and America
3. Theoretical framework

III) Left and right-wing anti-Americanism
1. Values - what America is
a. Economy
b. Culture
2. Actions - what America does
a. Global hegemony
b. Foreign Policy

IV) Conclusion: A clash of ideas and globalization resentment

References

• College: University of Zurich (Political Science)
• Course: International Relations
• Grade: 1.0
• Author: Reto Friedli (Author)
• Publication Year: 2015
• Pages: 33
• Catalog Number: V308319
• ISBN (eBook): 9783668064171
• ISBN (Book): 9783668064188
• Language: English
• Tags: Anti-Americanism, political ideologies, Western Europe, socialism, capitalism, conservatism, liberalism, nationalism, Marxism