In the news we hear that Germany has sworn off nuclear energy in the wake of the disaster in Japan, but the sentiment here in America is that of jealous scorn. "Look at those silly Germans! Scared-y-cats!"
This arrogant and ignorant reaction from people who SHOULD be wishing the Germans good luck in their decision is just about what I've come to expect lately, but it's doubly embarassing since it is Germany that has established a healthy solar energy policy over the past 12 years...precisely what SHOULD have been the case here. My prediction is that, of all nations, Germany will be where the least upheaval in national energy policy will occur because they haven't been afraid to subsidize new ideas with an eye to the future. While the rest of us scuffle over the last drops of (expensive) oil and deal with issues related to nuclear accidents and waste, they will have already set their compass with prudent action.
Of course, even Germany won't be able to escape the havoc America and other imprudent nations wreak upon the planet, but in a country where the national psyche has been guilt-ridden for decades, the German populace can at least hold their heads high knowing they've done the right thing.
Too bad America doesn't see things that way.
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