Out of the many hypothetical questions I have been asked, this is by far my favorite: What would happen to the world if the USA, and every citizen of the country, suddenly vanished overnight. Either alien abduction or Jesus' second coming, it doesn't matter. USA is just gone. Poof. How would it effect the world, and what would the long term effects be?

Would the world be a better place? Which country would take up the mantel of wealthiest (excuse our recession right now) and what would they do that America didn't? I know this is a weird question but I've only asked other Americans this question and the responses I usually get are "The world would end without us!" which is pretty weak. So, please feel free to discuss and give me your views!