In an earlier post, I referenced China's manners and etiquette campaign in advance of the 2008 Olympics. Because China sees these Olympic Games as its coming out party to the world, it is very self-conscious about its image. Next August when Beijing is flooded with foreigners, China wants these visitors to return home and talk about how Chinese people are so modern and sophisticated. Not about how uncouth Chinese people are.
Of course the Western mainstream news media has picked up on this story, and of course they have to add their own little slant.
After living in China for a while, I can't help but notice how the Western media's depiction of China is often quite skewed or at least incomplete.
Notice the selected quotes.
"If I hadn't learned some international rules and standards on manners, I could have made a fool out of myself."
Or the lady with the Chinese Jeri Curl: "I have higher standards for myself now. I have made great progress in dressing and manners."
I mean come on! It's not like Chinese people don't know how to act. I mean I go out to restaurants all the time and...
That ish is gross son! WTF?!
"Man, my ear really itches! Hey bro do you happen to have any Q-Tips on you?"
"Nah man I don't mess with Q-Tips no more. Just use that chopstick."
"Word good looking out son."
Saturday, September 15, 2007
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