I lived in the middle east for almost 2 years, how about you? You're the ignorant one, I've talked face to face to these people. We are the foremost symbol of freedom in the entire world. So yes, they do hate you for being American and your way of life. The freedoms, your religion, all of it. Am I saying it is the foremost reason, not exactly, but it is a driving force. Being tied to Israel, they label us zionists aswell, and sympathizing with Jews. Read all you want to, but until you've experienced it, you are the ignorant one speaking from someone's view point or opinion.
As for isolationism, I'm all for it, but if history repeats itself, we'll be like we were back during the WWII era. I believe it to be a great idea for the next 10 years or so, but being a world super power draws us into everyone else's bullshit. I think it's possible, but the likely hood is slim to none.