Monthly Talk: What Is America Doing with Our Communication, Culture, and Commerce?

Why It’s Happening—and What We Can Do

Once upon a time, Britain and America were “two nations divided by a common language.” Now, coca-colonisation has blurred the lines—“trainers” are “sneakers,” “shops” are “stores,” and “queues” are “lines.” US culture dominates our media, markets, and even manners. Should we fear Silicon (or Silly Con) Valley’s power? With our obsession for instant delivery and streaming, resistance seems futile. Has the cookie crumbled, or will China soon call the tune? In this witty, insightful session, Steven Fogel examines America’s cultural pull—when it goes too far, what we gain and lose, and whether “have a nice day” is really so bad.

Steven has been a keen US observer over many years. For many years he made monthly trips to the Atlantic as a US/UK law firm managing partner and then as adviser to investment and cultural organisations. After a career change from law, he chaired an investment management company. His trustee and board work has included London University, the Freud Museum, a dance company and musical artists agency. He has written textbooks and won gardening awards