I can't overstate the enthusiastic interest that the American presidential elections have sparked in France, where I live.

This is something more intense and deeper than fodder for cocktail party or water cooler discussion. It has to do with the ideas and ideals that animate the American experiment. And it resonates far beyond the chattering classes or those who have daily business with America or Americans.

My French neighbor illustrates this well. A youngish retiree, proud grandfather, and card-carrying conservative, my neighbor stayed up, watching election returns from the United States, until after Obama's victory address, which aired around 6:00 am Paris time. As I left my apartment to go to the office this morning, my neighbor bounded out of his apartment — in pyjamas, bathrobe, and slippers — to offer me his hearty congratulations. (Of course, I had not run for office or campaigned myself.)