I have heard that mr. Bush never went to ANY foreign country before he became president. After he became president it became impossible for him to experience any foreign country in any normal way (for example due to security concerns).

Before understanding how different (good and bad) other cultures can be, you have to visit at least one other culture, especially if you go alone to immerse yourself more. The difference is sort of like the difference between watching football on TV or actually playing it (or having played it or having played any sport for that matter).

If you have never been in another culture it is impossible not to presume that people in another culture are more like you than they actually are. It is also very easy by lack of info to feel superior, based on ... liking to feel superior.

It seems therefore that the Bush's arrogance in starting the iraqi war is for a large part based on ignorance. Also his attitude towards europe has shown a lot of this attitude. It is sad that the most powerful man in the world uses his power without barely any empathy or understanding.

PS: Shit, now I have gone and depressed myself.