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sunshinemiss -> RE: A bow to iron-fisted tyrants (4/16/2010 7:46:59 PM)
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quote:
ORIGINAL: Sanity
Here in America, it is rude to fail to extend your hand for a handshake when the other party reaches out.
Aren't bows also supposed to be mutual there in Asia?
quote:
ORIGINAL: sunshinemiss
quote:
ORIGINAL: Sanity
I would like a president who can stand up straight, especially when meeting with dictators and tyrants.
Sanity,
Here in Asia, bowing is like shaking hands. To refuse to bow would be akin to refusing to take a hand when it is offered. It would be a deep insult. Asians view touch very differently than we do. It is only done when people are close - friends / family. That Asian leaders shake hands is a great step in their meeting a western leader half way. We need to recognize that. You cannot apply your cultural norms to a person of another culture.
Beyond that, if there is no conversation whatsoever, then there is no change.
Best,
sunshine
There are LOTS of rules about bowing here. *Just like there are lots of rules for shaking hands over there.
And yes, I understand what you are saying. I don't think the President is unaware. But I do like to think that there is more here than meets the eye.
And yes, I see the insult that you are eluding to. I also know that sometimes a wise person will ignore an initial insult in order to get to the important stuff. Are we supposed to be shocked that a politician gave out mixed messages?
Whether we like it or not, China is a huge power in the world.
Best,
sunshine
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