Avoid Mistakes: Why Volunteers Should Read "The Ugly American"

“The Ugly American” by William J. Lederer and Eugene Burdick is a classic novel published in 1958. But it still holds relevance today. The book tells the fictional story of American diplomats and aid workers. They are stationed in a fictional Asian country called Sarkhan, during the Cold War era. The title refers to their attitudes and actions towards the local people.

The authors paint a vivid picture of the mistakes and misconceptions made by American foreign workers. And about the consequences of these actions had on the local population. The “ugly American” is Homer Atkins. He is a plain-spoken, practical, and down-to-earth engineer. Homer challenges the status quo of the American diplomatic corps. But also challenges their superficial approach to development and aid.

Why is “The Ugly American” still relevant today?

“The Ugly American” sheds light on the American perception abroad. It also highlights how it often leads to misunderstandings and miscommunications. The authors show how American diplomats and aid workers, fail to help the people they are supposed to help. Despite their good intentions, they don’t understand the local culture, customs, and needs of the people. These ‘ugly Americans’ are disconnected from the reality on the ground. And they are often seen as arrogant, condescending, and insensitive to the locals.

young man teaching class in a rural school in Peru — **Rhode Islander Kevin Drumm works as a health Volunteer in Peru.**

What are the consequences of arrogance in foreign aid and diplomacy?

The novel also portrays the consequences of arrogance and ignorance in foreign aid and diplomacy. The authors show how the failure to listen to and understand local perspectives can lead to disastrous outcomes. This results in resistance from the local population, loss of trust, and even violence. The book paints a stark contrast between the misguided efforts of the American diplomats and the practical and effective approach of Homer Atkins. This is because Homer gains the respect and trust of the locals by understanding their needs and working with them.

“Our aim is not to embarrass individuals,” the authors declared in their introduction, “but to stimulate thought — and, we hope, action.” One person it inspired was John F. Kennedy, who mailed a copy of “The Ugly American” to each of his Senate colleagues. The book’s epilogue argues for the creation of “a small force of well-trained, well-chosen, hard-working and dedicated professionals” fluent in the local language — not unlike the Peace Corps, which Kennedy proposed in 1960.
New York Times – essay: Still ‘Ugly’ After All These Years (2009)

What lessons can be learned for US Peace Corps volunteers?

“The Ugly American” is a recommended read for anyone working in the field of development. This book has been recommended to me time and time again. So, it is especially important for those serving as US Peace Corps volunteers. The book highlights the importance of humility, cultural sensitivity, and listening to local voices to be effective in helping communities. It emphasizes the need to understand the local culture, customs, and traditions, and to work with local people in a collaborative and respectful manner. All of which are the backbone ideas of the Peace Corps.

The book reminds us that development work is not about imposing Western values or solutions on other cultures. But rather it is about understanding and supporting local needs and aspirations. It emphasizes the importance of building relationships, earning trust, and working towards sustainable solutions that empower local communities.

International development has come a long way since the 1950s, but in fragile and conflict-affected areas, the U.S. government could do a better job of working collectively across development, diplomacy, and defense.
ForeignPolicy.com – Are Americans as ‘Ugly’ as Ever? (2018)

How does “The Ugly American” inspire reflection?

“The Ugly American” challenges conventional wisdom about foreign aid and diplomacy. The authors’ portrayal of the flaws and failures of American foreign workers is engaging. The book encourages readers to reflect on their own attitudes and actions in the context of development work. And it inspires them to adopt a more humble, culturally sensitive, and collaborative approach towards helping others.

In conclusion, “The Ugly American” is a must-read for those working in development, including US Peace Corps volunteers. It provides valuable insights into the challenges and complexities of foreign aid and diplomacy. It serves as a wake-up call to avoid the pitfalls of arrogance and ignorance, and to approach development work with humility, empathy, and a deep understanding of local perspectives.

This novel’s lessons are timeless for anyone engaged in international development efforts. So, pick up a copy of “The Ugly American” and get ready for its engaging story. It’s a book that will inspire you to reflect on your role as a Peace Corps volunteer. And it will challenge you to be a more effective and culturally sensitive agent of positive change. Happy reading!