From V.V. Raman, an emeritus professor of physics and humanities at the Rochester Institute of Technology:

Yes, this is another feather in the cap of the young leader of a country that has suffered global anger and condemnation in recent years, but who, by his character and charisma, intelligence and goodwill, has brought hope and vision to his country and the world in the face of monumental problems and hate-filled adversaries. Some have argued that the Nobel committee was too hasty in awarding the coveted honor, that it could have waited for him to translate into actions his promises and plans and to actualize his dreams and visions. But by this big bang it has also restrained him from belligerent reactions to frustrating enemies and events, and it urges him further to seek peace and friendship with intransigent and fanatical foes.
Whether the prize has been declared prematurely may be debated. But there can be little doubt in the judgment of the fair-minded that it was not ill-deserved to a man who strives his utmost under very difficult circumstances to bring order where there is chaos, understanding where there is animosity, and resolution where there is conflict: All this while struggling with economic and ecological problems, and strong opposition, sometimes reasonable and sometimes mindless, to his efforts to bring long-overdue universal health care to this, one of the richest nations in the world.
I interpret this gesture from Norway as an expression of confidence that in the troubled world of hate and hurt, of enormous economic challenges and international impasses, the policies and projects of Obama are worthy of being commended, recognized, and encouraged.