The argument, as stated in the post, is incomplete and therefore is not to be believed. If it were finished, the character would have to declare which country was "greater" and give objective reason why.
I know quite a few people who have dug themselves into The Busy Trap. I look at the situation a bit differently. For something new to come into our lives, we have to have time for it. If we want our lives to improve, we must arrange for large chunks of unstructured, uncommitted time.
It also prevents disreputable pet stores from selling one variety and claiming it is another. I inherited a Maltese that was sold on the condition that it could be AKC registered. The original owner got a reimbursement.
Ah, the foibles of youth! Married people cheat with other married people. Not only do they both have the same amount to lose, they run in the same social circles so it is easier to meet without suspicion.
I think that to build a physical monument is to miss the point. In my mind, the correct homage would be a special "push pin" on every Internet map. A small, very permanent, physical monument would also be appropriate so that visitors could have some something to see and touch when they arrive.
Thank-you. All endeavors, whether or not we realize it, start with some sort of restrictions. Embracing them allow us to be creative with what we have rather than wasting energy fighting the limitations.