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"I see this way too often about eastern cultures on the internet. And it sure is upsetting and extremely irritating." I am Indian too, but I don't find anythin
by plinkplonk 17y ago
"I see this way too often about eastern cultures on the internet. And it sure is upsetting and extremely irritating."
I am Indian too, but I don't find anything "offensive" about it.
If anyone misconstrues our culture, and we think it deserves correcting, let us correct them with facts, data and explanations and not necessarily assume ill will. God knows many Indians look on Americans as uncultured barbarians with a lot of money but no culture. They are wrong too, but being offended may not be a productive response.
At least on HN let us assume goodwill and argue based on facts vs perceived intention and "offensiveness". I am not disputing your right to be offended, just trying to propose an alternative. All cultures have ridiculous and glorious aspects. All people have incomplete perceptions.
As I said, I am Indian and live in India these days, but have lived in the USA. I maybe limited in my experience, but I've found most people in both countries to be decent people with no real notions of cultural superiority. This might be a good assumption to work off unless proved otherwise.
Just my 2 cents. Ok I am done. Thanks for listening. carry on :-)
- chromophore 17y agoGood comment plinkplonk. My first comment was made "at the spur". Not the guys fault. but reading too many articles on "Indian Culture" today. But I definitely thought it was a ridiculous comment. I agree with the edited versions.
- plinkplonk 17y ago@chromophore. Sure. I wasn't really disputing your comment vs suggesting a different frame. I have met my share of obnoxious people, both in the USA and in India, It is just that it is (in my opinion) very very hard to read the correct tone into written communication, specifically casual email/internet posts and a modicum of caution in this respect pays rich dividends.
- ErrantX 17y ago> I agree with the edited versions. yeh sorry. this was why I edited it. Both as I dug out some reference to the event I read about and your reply highlighted areas of confusion.