Crevecoeur states that an American is their own person, one that frees themselves, they control their own fate and don't need to rely on the oppressing force. Americans should look out for themselfs and be self-interested, because it is self-interest that governs nature. To do this they have to cut off attachment to mother county. For they are from all different backgrounds but to become American they must sever those ties and become self-interested.
These views of detachment from old beliefs is common in the enlightenment. Paine and Kant also saw this detachment liberating and necessary for freedom. Whether it is religion, government or their origin, one must leave it behind to become free American.
Wouldn't self-interest hinder the unity of America?
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