Introduction
     With the recent international price war on imports initiated by the United States, with an oblique strategy designed to “Buy American,” a closer look at some of the effects the orders will have across the board, beginning with a brief reflection on nationalism as a possible root cause beyond economics.

(Image credit: https://cultwine.com/products/2003-drc-la-tache-magnum)

Capsules

(Begin Perplexity-AI)

ethnocentric exceptionalism

Ethnocentric exceptionalism refers to the belief that one’s own ethnic group or nation is inherently superior to others and possesses unique qualities that set it apart from the rest of the world. This concept combines ethnocentrism, which is the tendency to view one’s own culture as the standard for judging others, with exceptionalism, the idea that a particular group is exceptional in some way.

Examples of Ethnocentric Exceptionalism

American Exceptionalism

American exceptionalism is a prominent example of ethnocentric exceptionalism. It encompasses three main ideas:

The United States is fundamentally different from other developed Western nations.

The US has a desire to shape the world to be more “American”.

The US is superior to every other nation due to its customs and belief systems.

This form of exceptionalism has roots in the American Revolution and has influenced US foreign policy throughout history.

Sinocentrism

Sinocentrism is another example of ethnocentric exceptionalism, referring to the belief that China is the center of the world. This perspective has had significant economic and cultural implications throughout history.

Impact on Society and International Relations

Ethnocentric exceptionalism can have both positive and negative effects:

Identity formation: It can help define a group’s identity by distinguishing it from others.

Social boundaries: It creates symbolic boundaries between groups.

International conflicts: In extreme cases, it can lead to conflicts, discrimination, and even violence.

Consumer behavior: It influences consumer preferences, with people from highly nationalistic countries more likely to prefer domestically-produced goods.

Balancing Ethnocentrism

While ethnocentric exceptionalism can be problematic, some scholars argue for a “balanced ethnocentrism.” This approach acknowledges the positive aspects of maintaining diverse cultural identities while remaining open to challenge and transformation through exposure to different perspectives.

Understanding and addressing ethnocentric exceptionalism is crucial for promoting cultural relativism, improving international relations, and fostering a more inclusive global society.

https://www.perplexity.ai/search/ethnocentric-exceptionalism-eLFy_9JBQTKCuoLb00_nBg

lack of comment from europe on us budget fight suggests arrogance and indifference

The lack of European commentary on the U.S. budget fight may stem from a combination of strategic priorities, historical context, and shifting geopolitical dynamics rather than outright arrogance or indifference.

Focus on European Defense and Autonomy: Europe is currently preoccupied with addressing its own defense and security challenges, especially in light of the U.S.’s reduced military involvement in Europe and Ukraine. The EU has unveiled significant initiatives, such as a €150 billion loan program to boost military spending and support Ukraine, signaling a pivot toward greater self-reliance in defense matters. This focus reflects Europe’s urgent need to adapt to America’s realignment and to counter threats from Russia, rather than engaging in U.S. domestic fiscal debates.

Economic Divergence and Strategic Realignment: The transatlantic relationship has been strained by economic divergence and differing priorities. While the U.S. economy has grown faster in recent years, the EU has struggled with slower growth and higher fiscal pressures. European leaders may view U.S. budgetary disputes as an internal issue with limited immediate impact on their own pressing concerns, such as military readiness and economic recovery.

Historical Context of Criticism: European leaders have faced decades of U.S. criticism over defense spending and “free-riding” within NATO. Recent moves by Europe to increase defense budgets and take greater responsibility for regional security are partly a response to this critique. However, these efforts are framed within a broader strategy of reducing dependence on U.S. support, which may explain why European leaders are less vocal about American fiscal challenges.

Geopolitical Shifts: The Trump administration’s withdrawal from multilateral commitments, including military aid to Ukraine, has forced Europe to recalibrate its strategic priorities. This shift underscores Europe’s focus on addressing its own vulnerabilities rather than commenting on U.S. domestic issues.

In summary, Europe’s silence on the U.S. budget fight likely reflects a pragmatic focus on its own challenges rather than arrogance or indifference. The continent is grappling with significant security and economic pressures that demand immediate attention, leaving little room for engagement in American fiscal debates.

https://www.perplexity.ai/search/lack-of-comment-from-europe-on-fxfe3XVyQqawMivTiHlcOg

russia, china, the eu and nato, ukraine have made no comments on us shutdown vote

As of March 14, 2025, there have been no reported comments from Russia, China, the EU, NATO, or Ukraine regarding the U.S. government shutdown vote. The focus of recent international discussions has been primarily on the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict and potential ceasefire negotiations.

Recent developments in international affairs include:

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s response to a U.S.-brokered ceasefire proposal for Ukraine, expressing support but not immediate agreement.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte’s statement that President Trump has taken Ukraine’s NATO bid “off the table” during peace discussions.

Ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to negotiate a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia.

The formation of a team by Ukrainian President Zelensky to oversee potential ceasefire agreements.

These events have dominated international attention, while the U.S. government shutdown vote has not elicited public responses from the mentioned countries or organizations based on the available information.

https://www.perplexity.ai/search/russia-china-the-eu-and-nato-u-e4VakS9mTy6KRMbcFURONA

europe has shown little concern over us budget plight, caring only for its own security and economic concerns.

This statement is not entirely accurate based on the available information. While Europe is indeed focusing on its own security and economic concerns, this is largely in response to changing global dynamics and not due to a lack of concern for the U.S. budget situation.

European Security Initiatives

Europe has been taking significant steps to bolster its own defense capabilities and economic security:

The European Union proposed a €150 billion common defense fund as part of a “Rearm Europe” plan to increase military spending.

The EU adopted an Economic Security Package in January 2024 to strengthen control of foreign investments, monitor outbound investments in advanced technologies, and enhance research security.

European leaders have been discussing the creation of a “coalition of the willing” to support Ukraine and potentially form an “armed forces of Europe”.

Economic Measures

Europe is also focusing on its economic resilience:

The EU is implementing a European Economic Security Strategy to address risks in supply chains, critical infrastructure, and technology security.

Germany announced changes to its fiscal rules to exempt military spending above 1% of GDP from debt restrictions, potentially bringing defense spending closer to 3% of GDP.

The EU is considering joint borrowing and relaxation of debt rules for defense spending purposes.

Context of These Actions

These initiatives are not solely due to indifference towards the U.S. budget situation, but rather a response to:

Increased geopolitical tensions and accelerated technological shifts.

Concerns about potential U.S. disengagement from European security, as evidenced by recent statements from the Trump administration.

The need to assert Europe’s role between a protectionist U.S. and an expanding China.

Transatlantic Relations

While Europe is taking steps to increase its self-reliance, it is not disregarding the importance of the transatlantic alliance:

European leaders are frustrated with the idea of U.S. abandonment of the transatlantic alliance.

There is hope that Europe’s increased capabilities will encourage the U.S. to remain committed to the partnership.

The EU’s defense initiatives mention cohesion and complementarity with NATO goals.

In conclusion, while Europe is indeed focusing on its own security and economic concerns, this is largely in response to global challenges and uncertainties in the transatlantic relationship, rather than a lack of concern for the U.S. budget situation.

https://www.perplexity.ai/search/europe-has-shown-little-concer-NQEh2waiSgi8ihjJMB3t.Q

empathy is not something “simple.” europe shows disregard for us budget plight lacking empathy for american debt, security and isolationist desire

While empathy is indeed a complex concept, it’s important to note that the relationship between Europe and the United States regarding economic and security issues is multifaceted and cannot be simplified to a lack of empathy.

Europe and the United States have faced their own economic challenges, with both regions experiencing debt crises and financial instability. During the European debt crisis, the United States took action to help ease the situation, including restarting the Federal Reserve’s dollar-swap line and supporting the IMF’s participation in the European rescue plan. This demonstrates a level of cooperation and mutual support between the two regions.

Regarding security concerns, Europe and the United States have long been strategic partners. The transatlantic alliance has been crucial in addressing global challenges, from counterterrorism to geopolitical issues. However, it’s true that both regions have their own priorities and domestic concerns that can sometimes lead to differing approaches.

As for the perception of American isolationist desires, it’s important to recognize that foreign policy stances can shift over time and are influenced by various factors. While there may be periods of more inward-looking policies, the United States and Europe continue to collaborate on many fronts, including economic and security matters.

It’s worth noting that both regions face common challenges, such as the need for fiscal consolidation, structural adjustments, and addressing emerging security threats. These shared concerns often necessitate continued cooperation and dialogue between Europe and the United States, even if there are occasional disagreements or differing priorities.

In conclusion, while there may be instances of misalignment or differing perspectives, characterizing the relationship as a simple lack of empathy oversimplifies the complex dynamics between Europe and the United States in matters of economics, security, and foreign policy.

https://www.perplexity.ai/search/empathy-is-not-something-simpl-bPk3pfH4T0aChYOEl84sXg

 the 200 percent tariff on european wine shows the beginning of an ideological ethnocentric exceptionalism war over trade, collective security and economics.

Trump threatens retaliatory 200% tariff on European wine after EU proposes American whiskey tax

President Donald Trump’s recent threat of a 200% tariff on European wine, Champagne, and spirits highlights escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and the European Union. This move is in retaliation for the EU’s planned 50% tariff on American whiskey, itself a response to U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum. The situation underscores deeper ideological shifts in trade policy, reflecting elements of ethnocentrism and economic nationalism.

Key Developments:

Trade Escalation: Trump criticized the EU as an exploitative trade partner and warned that the U.S. would impose steep tariffs unless the EU rescinds its whiskey tariff. The EU’s measures are set to take effect on April 1, targeting politically sensitive U.S. exports such as whiskey and motorcycles.

Economic Impact: Retailers and importers in the U.S. warn that a 200% tariff would devastate demand for European wines, which dominate the U.S. market. Industry leaders argue that American wineries cannot fill the gap, potentially harming both domestic and international stakeholders.

Ethnocentric Undertones: Trump’s rhetoric aligns with consumer ethnocentrism, which prioritizes domestic goods over imports as a form of economic patriotism. Ethnocentrism often manifests in trade policies as protectionist measures, favoring national industries while penalizing foreign competitors

https://www.perplexity.ai/search/the-200-percent-tariff-on-euro-dbCb3JXEQRmKMoKWOlNqgQ

compute the cost of rare french wine if sold in america adding 200 percent tariff

To calculate the cost of rare French wine if sold in America with a 200% tariff, we need to consider the original price and add the tariff. Here’s how it would work:

Original price: Let’s take an example of a rare French wine, such as the DRC La Tache Grand Cru – 2003 (750ml), which is priced at $6,999.99.

Tariff calculation: A 200% tariff means an additional 200% of the original price will be added.

Tariff amount = $6,999.99 * 200% = $13,999.98

Final price: Original price + Tariff amount

$6,999.99 + $13,999.98 = $20,999.97

Therefore, if a 200% tariff were imposed, this rare French wine would cost approximately $20,999.97 in America, effectively tripling its original price.

It’s important to note that such a significant increase in price would likely have severe consequences for the wine industry and consumers:

Many European wines would become prohibitively expensive for most American consumers.

The sale of most EU wines and spirits in the US would likely come to a near halt.

This could disrupt the availability of popular imported wines like Prosecco.

The increased cost would significantly impact US businesses, including importers, distributors, and restaurants.

Broader Implications:

The conflict reflects a growing ideological divide over trade and economic policy, where nationalist and protectionist strategies increasingly shape international relations. This approach risks undermining long-standing alliances and collective security frameworks, as economic disputes spill over into broader geopolitical tensions.

The proposed tariffs not only threaten economic stability but also reveal a shift toward ethnocentric exceptionalism in global trade dynamics, emphasizing domestic interests at the expense of cooperative international norms.

https://www.perplexity.ai/search/compute-the-cost-of-rare-frenc-JV07or.rQ6ifjEqrd2xocQ

(End Perplexity-AI)

Notes

     And don’t forget the tip! The section on Europe’s reaction to the shutdown-budget struggle and its lack of empathy exemplifies the go-your-own-way attitude of the EU when America faces a struggle. Certainly, it wasn’t the case following the 9-11 attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. Either way, the United States needs to pull itself together, with or without the allies.

Afterword

     The tariff war over spirits has a reciprocal effect across the board with recent news Canada is pulling stocks of American made liquor off the shelves. It opens the door for the black market, smuggling and even bootlegging, and an entirely new set of circumstances neither nation needs. 

     Once again, however, it gives an opportunity to reflect on the role exceptionalism plays in the ongoing struggle not just in economics, but world leadership.