To my American friends:
You really need a new government! Do you know what it's saying about you? And I quote:
This in the Sydney Morning Herald today. Advice highlights from the article are as follows:
The reputation of the ugly American abroad is not just some cruel
stereotype. Rather, says the United States Government, it is worryingly
accurate.
This in the Sydney Morning Herald today. Advice highlights from the article are as follows:
- Think as big as you like but talk and act smaller.
- Listen at least as much as you talk.
- Save the lectures for your kids.
- Think a little locally. Try to find a few topics that are important in the local popular culture.
- Slow down We talk fast, eat fast, move fast, live fast. Many cultures do not.
- Speak lower and slower.
- Your religion is your religion and not necessarily theirs.
- If you talk politics, talk - don't argue. Agree to disagree.
Really, I'm speechless. I'd make a joke, but..... No. I'm speechless.
Full article here: A Quiet Word to Loud Americans
posted by lala at
8:07 AM
2 Comments:
Yeah, (for many reasons) we *do* need a new government.
About the guide referenced in the article, the Economist has a similar report for Americans traveling abroad. I don't how I feel about all of these little guides.
I could be wrong but, in general, in my mind it seems that adults either know how to show common courtesy and respect to others or they don't. I'm not sure that a 10-point guide of sorts is going to magically transform an adult (of any nationality) who doesn't know how to be respectful into someone who does know how.
By
Twanna A. Hines | FUNKYBROWNCHICK.com, at 10:22 AM
Wow. This will surely balance the fine counter-example being set by the American government. Do as I say, not as I do.
By
venitha, at 3:21 PM
Post a Comment
<< Home