As someone who's nearly 40, people say to me "I can't beleve you're into anime" and then go on about Pokemon, Sailor moon and Dragonball. Yeah, whatever...

nope. just personal preference & strong opinions.

manga PWNS!!!!

weaknesses and stregnths in both
 

I see astounding beauty in the variety, multitude of genres, composition dynamic, and combinations of use of international perspective in both. But the American portrail of them is stifled by its culture.
We Americans don't place enough emphasis on the significance, depth, or power of art as we once did. Those programs that taught the true meaning of art requiring emphasis on international and historic understanting have been underfunded and largely faded out. The consequences of our lack of appreciation, attitude, and discipline are then reflected in our work. As in all creative endeavors.

What in the world are you talking about? American comics are expanding in new ways not seen in decades. Independent artists that two decades ago would have been stapling together comics and selling them at conventions are getting picked up and are getting major distribution. Look at the major motion pictures based on American comics that have come out just in the last year or two.

The government may not be putting as much money into art programs, but that doesn't mean art isn't as important to people as it always has been.