Most people agree that the direct, overconfident American personality is a virtue, but it sometimes
surprises foreigners. In many cultures, respect for older people or those in positions of authority (权威)
keeps others from expressing their true feelings. But in the U.S. children often argue with their parents,
students may disagree with their teachers, and citizens may express opposition to the actions of the
government. If the soup has a fly in it or the meat is too tough to chew, the diner can complain to the
waiter, if the boss makes a mistake, an employee will politely point it out.
Some straight talk about the American personality must include the admission that Americans have
their faults. The extremely competitive nature of Americans is probably their worst fault. Of course,
competition isn't always bad. As a matter of fact, it promotes excellence by encouraging individuals and
businesses to try to do their best. But the desire to get ahead of others sometimes causes people to do
things that are unkind and even dishonest. Also, Americans admire what is practical, fast, efficient, and
fresh. Sometimes they fail to understand and appreciate practices that have greater respect for more
traditional, leisurely (不慌不忙的) ways of doing things. On the other hand, people from other cultures
may dislike the practical, challenging American lifestyle.
Despite culture differences, most foreigners give Americans credit for their virtues. Americans are
generally viewed as friendly, adaptable, energetic, and kindhearted. Most newcomers to the U.S. like
Americans, and the feeling is usually mutual (相互的). Perhaps the greatest American virtue is a deep
interest in new ideas and new people. In a nation of immigrants, the foreigner does not remain an
outsider for long.
1. In order to show the respect for older people, ______.
A. people from some other cultures will always express their true feelings
B. people from some other cultures may sometimes hide their true feelings
C. Americans always show their true feelings
D. Americans usually argue with them
2. Why is the extremely competitive nature considered as one of the American faults?
A. Because people from other cultures fear competition.
B. Because only American people own it.
C. Because it will make people forget leisure.
D. Because it may sometimes urge people to do something bad.
3. It can be inferred from the passage that ______.
A. American people are more critical of everything than people from other cultures
B. the author believes that American character has more faults than virtues
C. the author admires American virtues as they are viewed as competitive and anti-traditional
D. it is difficult for newcomers to get on with Americans
4. The passage mainly talks about ______.
A. American virtues
B. American characters
C. American faults
D. American lifestyles
