Originally Posted by Kadowaki
the presumption of innocent until proven guilty is a very American concept.
Wrong. Many other Western governments share this standard making it is western concept rather than a US one. Specifically the EU shares this concept and all member states are required to adopt it.
You are, however, correct in asserting that this presumption specifically a legal system right but you overlook that it is also a moral and ethical standard. Most popular legal systems are based on wider ethical and moral values- either directly or through historic change. The presumption of innocence underlies many western outlooks on interpersonal dealings and therefore extends far outside the courtroom.
Presuming the worst of people is always bad and that is exactly what happens with a presumption if guilt. A presumption of innocence is merely giving someone the benefit of the doubt on suspicious behavior.
Often both the UCI and WADA come across as if they presume everyone is guilty but not yet caught. What a deplorable world-view.