An elegant, fun look at a tough and frustrating subject by a visionary scholar-practitioner.

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Product Description

History offers ample proof of AmericaOs pride and prejudice, a twin handicap that prevents effective communication with the rest of the world. Using literature, political science, philosophy, and humor, the book explores some of the reasons for AmericaOs current predicament. It ends, however, on a positive note, describing some heartening initiatives, and expressing confidence in the sustaining power of the American spirit. Dr. Pilon's analysis should prove useful to scholars and practitioners, indeed to anyone interested in improving the interaction between America and the world.

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Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1579316 in Books
• Published on: 2007-01-28
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 280 pages

From the Back Cover
"Juliana Pilon offers a sober and insightful analysis with solid recommendations on how to reverse the declining perception of the United States overseas. This is a must read for anyone who is concerned about how these perceptions are adversely impacting the U.S. role in the world and looking for concrete ideas about what to do about it."--Kevin F. F. Quigley, President, National Peace Corps Association

"How can the country that attracts immigrants from around the world--many of whom risk their lives to take on marginal and difficult lives as illegals--be concurrently hated by so many others? Juliana Pilon provides provocative insights into one of the world's true "love/hate" relationships and points to the many missteps, some thoughtless, others cynical and calculated, that contribute to international ambivalence about the United States, its policies, and its culture. In the last in particular, Dr. Pilon draws needed attention to the global impacts, intended or otherwise, of a popular culture that is often as diffucult for others to ignore as it is for Americans to defend."--William Nolte, School of Public Policy, University of Maryland and former Chancellor, National Intelligence University System

"Why America Is Such a Hard Sell is a thoughtful analysis of the world situation and why America's world reputation is tarnished. Juliana Pilon offers hopeful and practical ways of combating this image problem. This book is important because Pilon stays above the political fray, giving her solutions an air of legitimacy rarely seen in contemporary analysis. Pilon's compassion is like a beacon of hope for everyone in this divided world. I strongly encourage everybody to read this book."--Ambassador Akbar S. Ahmed, American University

"Juliana Pilon brings substantial doses of international political experience and wisdom to bear on the vexing question of how America can do a better job of making itself understood in the world. Her ideas cut across stale partisan lines of debate and offer a host of practical ways for moving forward."--Thomas Carothers, Vice President for Studies, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

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Customer Reviews

Recommended to anyone who cares about how America is perceived in the world
Why America is Such a Hard Sell is a fascinating investigation of an intriguing and timely subject. Drawing on a vast range of experience, research, and metaphors (including Austen's "Pride and Prejudice" of the subtitle) Pilon's book takes on its subject matter with extraordinary depth and artfulness. Rather than resorting to polemical accusations or oversimplifications, this book thoughtfully explores the nature of America's perception problems. Throughout the book, humor and amusing anecdotes are woven into the narrative, providing color and insight that keep the reader engaged and entertained. While the subject may be disheartening at times, the overall message is one of optimism; if we know our audience, and know ourselves (blemishes and all) there is a real possibility to improve our perception abroad. I recommend this book to anyone who believes in the idea of America and sharing it with -- as opposed to thrusting it upon -- the world.

"Why is America such a Hard Sell?
George Bush has asked, "Why do they hate us?" Juliana Pilon has asked a different question in her new book, "Why is America Such a Hard Sell?" Americans know how to sell--look at McDonalds and pop culture--but we are not as good at explaining our government policies and actions. Too many Americans feel that since we are the strongest and most magnanimous country in the world, others should just follow our lead without complaining. Why should we listen to people who are always calling on us to bail them out and then griping about how we do it? Ms. Pilon gives examples of how this attitude hurts us. She then suggests some practical rules to improve ou strategic outreach. Opinion leaders can learn some valuable lessons from reading this book.