I've taught in South Korea, Taiwan, and China. Whenever I've met Americans in those countries, I've generally been dumbfounded by the tripe that they spout. Actually,other Kiwis I've met have told me they have had similar negative experiences when meeting Americans abroad.

I think there must be something badly amiss with the education system in the USA. If it isn't changed, other Westerners will continue to regard the majority of US citizens they meet as a laughing stock!