Yeah, Americans need to get over our xenophobic illusion that we are the innovators and trailblazers.
You should see the look of shock on their faces when I tell Americans that we abolished slavery AFTER pretty much every other Western nation did...Priceless.
They can't speak or write English though. That sign is barely understandable. Just write it in German! At least make sure the translation is correct.
Xenophobic? Really? There is absolutely NOTHING wrong with saying, "I live in the greatest, or most innovative etc., country on Earth." and mean it.
Saying patriotic things is not saying, "All other countries aren't true."(Or whatever a church related term would be) I recognize there are countries where quality of life is at least the same as the U.S., maybe better. I still think I live in the best country, that doesn't mean I am xenophobic.
A huge amount of innovation and development has come from our free market society, some might call it a disproportionate amount. As our society has become more 'regulated' our rate of innovation has decreased to be more on par with the 'civilized' world, much to everyone's detriment.
I lived in Germany for three years when I was in the service.
Likes: Wonderful first world country with fine beer and hearty food. Mass transportation is clean, safe and ubiquitous. Low crime rates in cities. The general population is better educated overall.
Dislikes: Expensive and cramped living spaces. Costs a fortune to operate a car (and I'm a Californian!). Super high gas prices. Seriously frigid winters.