This is definitely one of strengths of American culture. I had a long conversation with my grandfather about it a while back. He studied and worked in the US du

This is definitely one of strengths of American culture. I had a long conversation with my grandfather about it a while back. He studied and worked in the US during the 40s and 50s. While I did my MS and worked there just a few years ago. Both of us agreed that people aren't afraid to question things or think different. Whether it is to a prof or a boss or an authority figure. It's not just a lack of fear, but people are encouraged and expected to speak and respected when they do it. The internet/consumerism and the media have taken those strengths to an extreme is what I feel is happening today. That hopefully will correct itself as you pointed out as with McCarthyism.