General English. Ульянова О.В - 113 стр.

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minute often makes Americans impatient when they have to wait. It also
makes it difficult for Americans to relax.
The desire to save time and do work more quickly and easily leads
Americans to buy many kinds of machines — from office equipment
such as calculators, photocopy machines, and computers to dozens of
home and personal appliances, such as microwave ovens.
The Importance of Money. After visiting the U.S. in the 1830s, the
French historian Alexis de Tocqueville wrote, "I know of no country ...
where the love of money has taken stronger hold …” Americans are often
accused of being materialistic, of valuing wealth and possessions above
all else. Money is valued both as a symbol of success and also for a more
obvious reason—its purchasing power. Purchases are made in order to
“keep up with the Joneses,” to show friends that one can afford a bigger
house or a better car. Also, advertising encourages people to keep buying
things far beyond what they need. In the nineteenth century, the American
author Henry David Thoreau advised his country-men, “Simplify your
needs!” However, Americans have moved in the opposite direction. Now,
just as Thoreau predicted, many find that their possessions own them.
They must work hard to earn enough money to buy and maintain the
many possessions they consider necessities.
Yes, Americans love to make a lot of money and spend it on
themselves—to buy things that save time, give them pleasure, or serve as
status symbols. However, Americans are also very generous and very
willing to donate money to good causes.
Say What You Mean, and Mean What you Say. Americans believe
that “honesty is the best policy.” They are direct and assertive. They ask
for what they want. Children often argue with their parents and citizens
express opposition to actions of the government. If the soup is cold or the
meat is tough, the diner can complain to the waiter.
If a teacher is wrong or confusing, a student may say so. If the boss makes
a mistake, an employee may politely point it out.
The Need to Win. The extremely competitive nature of Americans
is often criticized. Of course, competition isn’t always bad. But the desire
to get ahead of others sometimes causes people to do things that are
unkind and even dishonest.
The Practical Outlook. Americans admire what is practical, fast,
efficient, and new. Sometimes they cannot understand cultures that prefer

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