well.. from Singapore's point of view, the US is seen to lead the world in almost all aspects of the worldly affairs. In politics, in arms, in economy... and most importantly, in maintaining world peace and order.
I think no other country in the world will be so involved in maintaining peace and security in the world as much as the US. In short, the world's prosperity relies heavily on the US.
Americans may not feel that heavy burden of responsibility and example that most of the world see and follow the US. For most Americans, everyday is just another day.
Especially friends of the US see America as the forerunner of many things which we may copy and adopt from America. Be it social, economical or political.
