That's not bashing to you and me, but "bashing" is a moronic and subjective term (that is, like "propaganda," it's only "bashing" when those who oppose you do it...) and a lot of Americans would consider it to be so.

Precisely. How did Zapatero engage in "US bashing"? All he did was promise he would pull Spanish troops out of Iraq unless the mission was handed over to UN command by June 2004 (reasonable but impossibe condition). And, on that note, I don't think Schroeder did much 'bashing' either.

But, yeah, this is presented as "america-bashing" in the US press because no reasonable person could possibly oppose US policy.

It's the nature of national identity to define yourself against another - and even Europeans do it.

Um, I'm not sure I agree with that, but a 'soft' national identity that is not confrontational doesn't take you very far.

However, Spain managed to win the Euro2008 without being able to agree to a lyrics for its anthem. Now that's a feat of 'soft' national identity.

While you might perceive some Europe-bashing from Obama, I think you'll also perceive some flattery as well.

I think he damns with faint praise, and I am not sure what part of his pronouncements are for real and which part are posturing or pandering to the audience du jour.

A vivid image of what should exist acts as a surrogate for reality. Pursuit of the image then prevents pursuit of the reality -- John K. Galbraith