As no surprise, a study, U.S. Economic Influence on Own Country, completed by the Pew Global Attitudes Project from this past March/April 2008, revealed the United States’ image as less than positive. Twenty-four countries were surveyed and asked to what extent the U.S. economy influenced their own economy. Japan and South Korea led the pack, with 94% to 95% of respondants responding that the U.S. had a great deal/fair amount of influence on their economies. Russia, China and Pakistan felt the U.S. influence the least.

Much of the discussion around this report reflects the growing question of how this financial crisis will effect the U.S.’ position as intellectual and economic leader in the world. Absolutely, this turmoil is and will continue to have an effect on the country’s position in the world; however, the question is to what extent, and what if anything can be done to change that.