The Triviality of American Pop-Culture

American culture is peculiar . . . at least that is what I would think as a foreigner observing the norms and traditions we practice in this great nation. I recall a lengthy discussion with a friend once about how strange it may seem to other nations that some in American society put great value into people that can do tricks on their bike or their skateboard. Then there comes an event like the 2008 USA Paper, Rock, Scissors League Championship which will be held this weekend in Las Vegas.

If you happen to think this is just a fluke event . . . think other wise. Bud Light will be sponsoring the event and the champion will earn $50k in prize money plus a ticket to Bejing, China to compete in the International Rock, Paper & Scissors Federation Championship.

What does this say about our culture and our society? I find it intresting that such an event could garner the support of a large corporation. Then again, there are the ESPN STIHL Timbersports Championships where men compete to axe, saw and cut their way throw large tree trunks. Let's not forget the video game competitions where some young men make a living playing video games. Why should I truly be surprised? In Valencia, I met two Americans that were visiting to compete in a Magic the Gathering card game competition.