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00:00:00 – 00:21:45
Augusto and Mateo Salvato, in discussing their book "Shitty Country but the Best Country in the World," explore the complexities of Argentina's national identity. They address the oscillation between national pride and disillusionment among Argentines, particularly the younger generation's inclination to emigrate due to opportunities abroad and negative narratives about the country's future. The speakers advocate for empathy towards those who stay and emphasize the importance of fostering a hopeful narrative rather than perpetual decline.
The video also highlights Argentina's internal discord and how political and social divides hinder progress. Referencing "The Trial of the Century," the discussion illustrates how prioritizing self-interest over collective good contributes to a negative national psyche. The discourse acknowledges Argentina's historical and ongoing challenges, yet champions the idea of reviving the 'Argentine dream' of upward mobility akin to the 'American dream,' by motivating citizens to believe in the country's future potential.
Moreover, the speakers draw comparisons between Argentina and other nations, noting Argentina's cultural assimilation of immigrants and its educational strengths despite economic difficulties. They argue for the importance of soft power in shaping a compelling national narrative, encouraging Argentina to construct a positive image that fosters national pride beyond fleeting moments of collective success, such as sports victories. The overarching message is a call to create a new and inspiring narrative that revitalizes hope and unity among Argentines.
00:00:00
In this part of the video, Augusto and Mateo Salvato discuss their book titled “Shitty Country but the Best Country in the World,” which delves into the dichotomy of Argentina’s national identity. They explore why Argentines oscillate between pride and disillusionment with their country, aiming to understand the origins of this mindset. They investigate national narratives and identity, suggesting that understanding these aspects is crucial for Argentina to transform into a developed country. The discussion includes historical anecdotes, like the misbelief that the Río de la Plata led to silver mines, illustrating the nation’s foundation on unfulfilled promises. Additionally, they touch on the perspective of young Argentines who feel disillusioned and consider leaving the country, addressing the need to provide hope and a future within Argentina.
00:03:00
In this part of the video, the discussion focuses on the logical reasoning behind the decision to emigrate from Argentina, especially for young people presented with opportunities abroad. The speakers acknowledge the excellence and human capital Argentines demonstrate when they work overseas. They emphasize the importance of not turning one’s back on Argentina, highlighting the need for empathy towards those who cannot leave. They address the adverse impact of constant negative messaging about the country’s future on those who remain, advocating for a more positive narrative. There is also a mention of the cultural and ideological battles faced in Argentina, especially the juxtaposition of national unity during events like winning the World Cup against the challenges in agreeing on coherent state policies.
00:06:00
In this segment of the video, the discussion revolves around Argentina’s internal discord and how it affects the country’s political and social landscape. It touches on a book titled “The Trial of the Century,” which discusses the pervasive spirit of discord in Argentina, where different sides prioritize their own interests over the common good. The conversation emphasizes the constant political discussions and compares it to a war campaign. The speakers note a common negative perception about Argentina, where even young people grow up hearing that the country is troubled. They highlight the contradiction where Argentinians disparage their country but become defensive if outsiders criticize it. The segment explores the idea that this mindset affects both personal growth and national outlook, with a focus on how people aim to change Argentina rather than embracing and improving its current state.
00:09:00
In this part of the video, the speakers discuss the importance of shifting from a narrative of decline to one of opportunity and future potential for a country’s development. They highlight the significance of having a forward-looking perspective that motivates people to believe in a better future, similar to the optimism that drove their ancestors to immigrate in the past. Despite current challenges such as poverty and inadequate leadership, they emphasize that Argentina remains a favorable place to live within the Latin American context, and there is a need to revive the ‘Argentine dream’ of improving conditions for future generations.
00:12:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses various perspectives on Argentina, highlighting both its challenges and strengths. They touch on Argentina’s comparison with European countries, particularly Spain, noting that Argentina struggles in macroeconomic terms yet still has notable strengths. Despite economic issues, Argentina is still chosen for education due to its excellent university systems and attracts international companies seeking local talent. Additionally, the impact of immigration on Argentina’s cultural identity is discussed, illustrating how the country has effectively assimilated various immigrant groups over time.
00:15:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses the positive feelings of immigrants from countries like Venezuela, Colombia, and Peru towards Argentina. They note that many immigrants feel comfortable and love the country, expressing that they have not heard foreigners speak negatively about Argentina. The speaker highlights the aspirational nature of Argentines and the decline of the middle class, comparing today’s Argentina to its past when it did not have a ‘poor country’ like it does now. The conversation includes an anecdote about a trip to Medellín, where a taxi driver’s comment on social divisions in the city highlights similar emerging class distinctions in Argentina. The speaker reflects on the cultural shift and the persistence of social mobility barriers, comparing Argentina’s current situation to historical perspectives on economic and social mobility. They also differentiate the Argentine dream from the American dream, suggesting that the former is linked to “downward mobility.”
00:18:00
In this segment of the video, the discussion centers on the concept of the “Argentine dream” and its similarities and contrasts with the “American dream.” The conversation highlights the idea of upward mobility in Argentina, where the next generation can achieve professional success and take on decision-making roles, often surpassing the achievements of their immigrant predecessors. Meanwhile, the narrative power of the United States is examined, emphasizing how the U.S. has crafted a global image as the “land of the free” despite its social issues. The segment concludes by suggesting that other countries, including Argentina, could learn from the U.S. in terms of constructing a positive national narrative that fosters love for the country beyond just moments of national pride like sports victories.
00:21:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses the concept of soft power in international relations, emphasizing the importance of projecting a strong national image during geopolitical transitions. They highlight the need to go beyond military strength, focusing instead on shaping perceptions and conveying a compelling national narrative. The speaker also references the valued generation of the 1980s as an example and calls for the creation of a new narrative to revitalize the Argentine dream.