> Using similar logic, you could argue all countries need to get with the program and speak English.

> Or use US dollars.

Both those things basically happened.

Not taking any side, I'm just sincerely curious why do you think that it is culturally important?

I can't speak for all of US but at least in Midwest, in the circles I grew up it has always been an attitude or US vs the rest. Mention the metric system to a construction worker and he'll tell you to get the hell lost. US culture values individual accomplishments and self-direction so there tends to manifest an us vs them mentality. Having a unique measurement system helps support that mentality so I really don't see any change coming any time soon in regards to switching to the metric system.