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Old 01-08-2009, 11:35 AM   #209
FanningTheFlames
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Join Date: Jul 2002
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Anyways, let me jump in and defend the OP. Label me whatever you want.

I am currently living in China and, yes, I eat at 'Asian' restaurants all the time. If I didn't, I would probably starve to death. But my point is this... I have met countless people who generalize and stereotype Westerners from one bad experience or from what they heard from the state controlled press here. Do I think it's fair to be lumped in with the all the playboy types who come to Asia looking for a good time, or to be viewed suspiciously because some American did something? No, but I can understand it. Generalizing is human nature, part of our defense mechanism. It is a survival skill, and if we couldn't assume that "all tigers are dangerous" we wouldn't be here today. Of course, it's not fair to those individuals lumped in with the bad. But why should you be surprised by this? Travel around the world and I dare you to find a place any different. Those who take pride in being 'open-minded' and look down on those they think are not, are generally naive IMO.

Asians have an image problem in Calgary right now and will until the gangs are gone. Look, I can understand the need to protect your own and claim "it's not fair", but don't look down on people who are trying to protect *their* own.

OK, fire away with the racist labels!
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