Why Canada is not like America

Browsing my usual dose of local news at the Gothamist, I came across a story of annoying habits of subway riders. Now, I have my own share of pet peeves about rude/oblivious/disgusting fellow commuters too, so I understand a lot of these comments about annoying passengers. But the majority of the commentors just remind me of why I don't like living here. Sure, people can be bigotted, rude, and self-absorbed everywhere, but this city is certainly the breeding ground and magnet to those types. Really, the worst problem during your morning commute is a fat person? And how about self-righteous people who "paid the same $2 for this seat" and so won't give it up for an elderly, disabled, or pregnant person?

If a mark of a civilised society is the population's compassion for the underpriviledged and the weak, and its care of the fugure (moms-to-be and children), then this very American attitude of "I paid for it and it's mine!" marks a society which has some growing up to do!