In what ways were the UK and the US different?

In terms of the first political system

The British political system

The United Kingdom has a long tradition of parliamentary democracy and implements a constitutional monarchy. The monarch is the head of state. Currently, Elizabeth Bai II. The UK's legislative body, the Parliament, currently has two chambers. The House of Commons is more important, while the House of Lords is mainly the body that revises laws.

The executive branch is headed by the Prime Minister. Typically, the Prime Minister is the leader of the party with the most seats in the House of Commons. Other leading members of the party join the prime minister in forming the cabinet, the main executive body.

Strictly speaking, the UK is not a federal country, but the current government has recently established decentralized institutions in Scotland and Wales, such as the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh and the Scottish Parliament in Cardiff. of the Welsh Assembly. The UK also attempted to establish a decentralized government in Northern Ireland, but this was temporarily shelved due to disputes between political parties. The legislative and judicial systems of England and Wales are very different from those of Scotland and Northern Ireland. Likewise, there are many differences between Scottish law and English law. Although there are many Acts of Parliament in Northern Ireland, most of them follow the practice in England. Their most common feature is that they have a unified Supreme Court (House of Lords) across the country. Currently, many British legislation applies to the entire UK.

The political system of the United States

The presidential cabinet system. The President is the head of state, head of government and commander-in-chief of the armed forces. The President's executive orders have the same force and effect as laws. The president is elected indirectly for a four-year term. The government cabinet consists of ministers and other members designated by the president. The cabinet actually only plays the role of presidential aides and advisory group, and has no collective decision-making power.

Constitution On July 4, 1776, the constitutional document "Articles of Confederation" was formulated. A draft constitution was formulated in May 1787, and the first Congress declared it effective in March 1789. It is the world's first written constitution as an independent, unified country. Over the past two centuries, the Communist Party has enacted 27 constitutional amendments. Important amendments include: the first 10 amendments to the Constitution passed by Congress in September 1791, including guarantees of freedom of belief, speech, press and the rights to peaceful assembly, later known as the "Civil Rights Act" (or "Bill of Rights"); 1865 The 13th and 15th Amendments passed in 1870 and 1870 on the abolition of slavery and recognition of black civil rights; the 25th Amendment passed in 1951 stipulates that if the President is unable to exercise his powers, the Vice President will be promoted to the President. The main content of the Constitution is to establish a federal country, in which each state has greater autonomy, including legislative power; to implement a political system with separation of powers, in which the legislative, executive and judicial branches stand in harmony and restrict each other.

Congress Congress is the highest legislative body, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives. Members of both chambers are directly elected by voters in each state. There are 2 senators per state, 100 senators, with a term of 6 years, and 1/3 are re-elected every two years. Representatives are elected according to the population proportion of each state. ***435 members are elected for a two-year term. All are re-elected at the end of the term. Members of both houses can be re-elected for any term. Members of the Senate and House of Representatives are full-time and may not hold government positions concurrently. The current Congress (108th Congress) was elected through mid-term elections on November 5, 2002. One-third of the seats in the Senate (34 seats) and all 435 seats in the House of Representatives have been re-elected. The ratio of seats between the Republican Party and the Democratic Party in the Senate and House of Representatives in the new Congress has become 51:48 and 229:205 respectively (one seat in each house is an independent). Since Vice President Cheney also serves as the Speaker of the Senate in accordance with the law and has voting rights in the Senate that can tip the balance, the Democratic Party still controls both houses. Senate President Pro Tempore Ted Stevens, Majority Leader William Frist, Minority Leader Thomas Daschle . House Speaker Dennis Hastert, Majority Leader Tom Delay, Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi.

The judicial branch consists of the Federal Supreme Court, federal courts, state courts and some special courts. The Federal Supreme Court is composed of the chief justice and eight justices, who serve for life. The Supreme Court has the power to invalidate any federal or state law.

Current Chief Justice William Rehnquist.

Second education quality

1. Entrance examination;

None in the UK (undergraduate)

US SAT-undergraduate GRE-graduate GMAT-MBA!

From the perspective of admission threshold, the United States is much higher than the United Kingdom

2. Educational system

The minimum length of the British taught master's degree is nine months. Graduation can be achieved through internship under the mentorship program

American master's degrees generally require completion of the mentorship program within 24 months before graduation

From the perspective of the master's degree system, the British taught master's degree is just a single book The traditional education makes it difficult for graduates to get job opportunities in the UK. There is no taught master's degree in the United States. If you want to get a degree, you must complete the project honestly, and students often have to go to internships in major companies. This provides a great bargaining chip for getting American offers in the future.

3. Employment situation

The success rate of British Chinese students studying in the UK is almost zero,

The employment rate of American Chinese students studying in the United States is 25~30%

Why is the employment situation in the United States better? Because the United States is a country of immigrants, it provides more employment space for overseas students. The UK is relatively conservative. In addition, due to the dominant position of the American economy in the world, the recognition of its institutions is much higher than that of the UK. To give an obvious example, the recruitment requirements of international investment bank Morgan Stanley: MBA - the top 30 schools in the United States or the top 5 schools in Europe School graduates are qualified

4. Various qualification certifications.

UK ACCA CIMA-Accounting ICARW-Accounting London Institute of Investment Management-Finance British Actuarial Society-Insurance

American AICPA-Accounting CMA-Accounting CFA-Financial CFP-Financial SOA-Insurance

The above are all global gold medal certifications in various industries. By comparison, we found that the certifications in the United States are generally better than U.K. In the accounting industry, the American AICPA has stronger global recognition and effectiveness than ACCA, while the influence of ICARW, a long-established British association, is only in England and the Irish peninsula. In the financial industry, the famous CFA in the United States has an absolute monopoly in the world. The London Institute of Investment Management was merged by the CFA ten years ago. It can be said that financial training in Europe has always been shrouded in the shadow of the United States. In the insurance industry, North American Actuarial SOA also stands out. Although the British Actuarial Society has a greater influence in England, its overseas market is relatively bleak.

Taken together, the quality of education in the United States is higher than that in the United Kingdom. Of course, Cambridge and Oxford in the UK are also well-known universities, but overall, the strength and reputation of other universities in the UK are much worse. Although American universities cannot be said to be better than those in the UK in terms of strength, due to the super influence of the United States in the world, American institutions are destined to have a global reputation that British institutions cannot match. Nowadays, many of the top 50 colleges in the United States are familiar to HR people around the world, but only a few are well-known in the UK. In addition, because Americans have great trust in their own education system, they clearly understand what level of work graduates from colleges and universities can do. A very important factor why international students are rushing to study in American universities is the trust that the United States has in its own educational system, because this trust brings them more job opportunities in the United States. Therefore, in terms of the benefits of studying abroad and taking exams, it is more cost-effective to choose the path of the United States. But if American education is really much better than British education, it is not so obvious

In terms of third culture

Speaking of the different customs of the United Kingdom and the United States, in In my vision, I would like to use two famous iconic attractions with different feelings and types to describe Windsor Castle in the United Kingdom and Las Vegas in the United States. It can be said that the typical characteristics of the British are like a steady drizzle, and they become friendly to you little by little; Americans are like a heavy downpour, they can be very enthusiastic at the beginning, but it is difficult to become a true friend. As everyone said, 'It is easy friendly but hard to be friend' '.

The British attach great importance to their own traditions, which is a deep-rooted national character. You can feel it from the pronunciation of their ancient chisels.

Speaking of this, there is a small episode. I went to the UK the second week after returning from the United States. The first thing I experienced on the British flight was the British air ANCLE, and I almost never saw the stewardess. Only the solemn expressions on their faces were seen, and it was difficult to see smiles. At this time, a gentleman asked me what I was drinking and gave me several choices: "Juice, Water, Cola and so on. What do you want to drink?", his magnetic and muddy voice appeared next to my ears. , I said "Tomato (I was using the American pronunciation of the word) juice, please", but he seemed to know but asked me again in a way that he didn't understand, so I repeated it twice, which he said impatiently. He responded to me by saying "Tomato (he pronounced it in standard British pronunciation at this moment)" and corrected me before asking me again. After I repeated his pronunciation, I finally got my tomato juice. It seems that they deeply believe that American pronunciation is inaccurate. At the same time, they are even less willing to accept it this way. They can't stand the American English accent, but they can't speak directly. The United States' national power is too strong, and many people follow them. However, this close relationship is actually a bit mixed, with all the ups and downs. When I heard that, I immediately felt that they were so serious and serious. The impression that the British have on me is that they are more nostalgic. In English they are called ‘Nostalgic’. This kind of tradition is continuously continued and passed down. Protecting the tradition can be said to be free of charge (the United States is the most unlike them in this regard). For example, the nearly century-old red telephone boxes on the streets of London, the red mailboxes, the big umbrellas that people always hold in their hands, duffle coats, Wellington leather boots, and Wimbledon tennis balls are all unshakable things in British emotions. Their city, especially London, is simply an architectural museum, with everything from Roman times to the 21st century. The buildings that were bombed by Germany during the Second World War were restored as they were after the war. This Nostalgia. This nostalgia is also reflected in behavior and language. Members of Parliament wear ancient top hats, judges still wear wigs, and the black lambskin top hats worn by soldiers in the Royal Guard of Honor look as if they have not been changed in three hundred years. People are polite to each other and use more honorifics than Americans. More than ten times, he never shows off his position and title in front of others, and never makes noise in public places. There are special words to describe this kind of making noise in public places, such as hoo-hah, hullabaloo, or those things. The troublemakers are called Palaver and Kerfufle, both of which have a connotation of contempt. However, they also advocate moderation. Whenever there is such a noise, especially when someone is drunk, they usually remain silent, just look at it coldly, or choose to walk away. It can be said that drinking is a custom in England. There are people in the bar starting in the afternoon, and it usually starts to get dark at 10pm in the summer. Many people are lazing around in the PUB. This kind of leisurely state is like British people taking their dogs with them in the morning. Like taking a walk. Scenes like this are rarely seen in big cities in China, especially in Beijing where there is competition pressure and talent accumulation. It usually only occurs on weekends. Everyone just relaxes and adjusts, and few people can truly achieve the taste and enjoyment of the inner world. state of mind. The British are so calm and calm. Maybe they don't worry about the economy when they get old, because the welfare benefits provided by the state for old age in the UK, especially after retirement, are very generous. During the half month I lived with an old couple in Cambridge, , they told me that their living expenses are paid by the government, including: water and electricity bills, medical expenses, transportation expenses, etc. In their words, this is more money and more nourishing than making money when they were young, so they don't have to worry about their livelihood when they get old, and can actually enjoy their old life more happily.

The British attach great importance to personal privacy, because they are very law-abiding, so the space outside the law is their own. If you watch a movie in London, even if there are many people, they will try to seat as far away from you as possible. Open one and the seat next to you will always be empty. British people don't like to show their feelings. If you are on a plane and there is an American next to you, he may tell you everything about his ancestors for eighteen generations in a few hours. But if you are a British person, what you hear is Bin. They are polite and polite, and then at most ask you how the weather is. Happiness, anger, sorrow, and joy are not their way of expression.

Although they regard Ireland, Scotland, and Wales as inferior nations, compared with other nations on the European continent, they still regard them as "one of their own." They do not like the French and Germans, and they do not like the French. People have a love-hate relationship. They like French wines, delicacies, and a climate that is better than theirs. They flock to France for vacation. I think they may think deep down that the French are not worthy of living in such a good place. The Germans are too serious and rigid, the Italians are emotional, the Russians are downright depressed, and the Orientals are dangerous and enigmatic. They like Canadians and Australians very much because they are their descendants and have maintained the British temperament and habits, while Americans are too strong. Generally speaking, British people regard Americans as their own people, that is, they think they are English Very poorly spoken.

Windsor Castle is a witness and epitome of British history. It can also be said to convey the characteristics and spirit of the British. Its solemn, majestic palaces and beautiful scenery have attracted the attention of the world. Standing among the quiet green fields and forests, overlooking the ancient castle that disappears and appears with the floating clouds, you seem to hear Shakespeare narrating the thrilling tragedies that occurred in the fight for the throne in poetic language. Windsor Castle not only takes the lead in the history of world castles with its own characteristics, but also frequently plays an important role in the history of the British royal family. It has a strong humanistic color and attracts tourists from all over the world. Windsor Castle - like Her name also attracts people. The beautiful Windsor Castle, a royal castle with a history of nearly a thousand years, is said to be the largest inhabited castle-style building in the world. Windsor Castle has been the seat of the British royal family since the reign of Henry I in the 12th century, and it is still the Queen's weekend destination. All of Windsor Castle is open to the public except the Queen's residence. Whenever the queen comes, only the largest palace on the top of the mountain is left for her, while the rest of the palace is still allowed to visit. It is famous for its collection of royal paintings and treasures. It houses many unparalleled art collections, including paintings by Leonardo da Vinci, Ruben, Rembrandt and other masters, precious gifts from various countries, and ceramic treasures loved by the Queen. Pocket dolls, and some walls are decorated with various precious pistols, long swords and other weapons, showing the majesty, sanctity and elegant artistic taste of the royal family, giving people a special artistic enjoyment. There are two famous churches in the castle. St. George's and Albert's Church. The architectural art of the church is comparable to that of Westminster Abbey in downtown London, and its magnificence is amazing. Not only that, many major events in British history took place here, and since the 18th century, British monarchs have been buried here after their deaths. In addition, there are many tombs of queens, princes and other royal members. The changing of the guard ceremony at Windsor Castle is also quite famous. I was lucky enough to watch the changing of the guard ceremony here and appreciate the style of the Royal Guards on the spot. These guards are not performing. They are all well-trained guards of international standards. Their daily handover ceremony is so meticulous that people can't help but feel respectful. No matter how hot it is, they still wear the everlasting black furry top hat. Including the young men at PUNTING on Lake Cambridge, they all have such a graceful manner, with their unique little round hats, white shirts and high-waisted trousers under a green belt, they look so heroic.

Las Vegas in the United States is just the opposite. It is so unrestrained, passionate and charming. Its nightlife is very colorful, and the most popular ones are gambling, luxurious dinners and wonderful song and dance performances. Just like Americans, they worship money. The entertainment performances there are world-famous. The FANTANCY girl group's TOPLESS SHOW has earned enough men's attention and money. It is definitely Sin City. Las Vegas is a performance mecca for famous artists across the United States and even the world. In those days, such as Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, they all became famous for their performances in Las Vegas. During the Lunar New Year or traditional Chinese festivals, there are even Chinese artists performing in Las Vegas. No matter when you go to Las Vegas, you can almost see performances by many well-known artists. Sometimes I wonder why people from all over the world are willing to come here to spend money, especially Chinese people who come to the United States. It can be said that everyone is willing to donate the money in their pockets. Las Vegas, a myth rising in the desert, not only has the bitterness and glory of people full of hope, success and failure, but also has the wonders of the world's hotels and top modern management art and culture.

If you arrive in Las Vegas after dark, after passing through a dry and barren land, a splendid city that never sleeps suddenly appears on the edge of the earth. You will definitely be shocked by this special city, an incredible artificial city. When approaching the city along the highway, anyone's eyes will be attracted by the shining neon lights and the unique luxury tourist hotels, and even lose themselves in a fantasy world that is completely divorced from daily life. Here, all cities The designs are all for your enjoyment and allow you to experience real dreams. This further reflects the entertainment spirit of Americans, just like the 2008 Olympic Games held in China. Even though the United States is not the first in gold medals, it is the first in medals. I am participating in my happy spirit.

If we compare Windsor Castle and Las Vegas as representatives of the United Kingdom and the United States, I am afraid that this confirms the openness, fantasy and diversity of Americans and the social behavior of British aristocrats. The reservedness, arrogance and pretentiousness are in sharp contrast.