My title is "All Asians are Smart, Right?" Its supposed to reference what I'm going to talk about: stereotypes, and in this particular case, the stereotype that I fall into which is that people always assume that I'm smart just because I'm Asian. I read some comments about how some of you thought it was kind of a racist title -- that was the point. I wanted my title to be eye-catching and a little bit offensive. Why offensive? Well because it will spark interest, and also, because it really can be offensive, which is the point I am trying to get across in my paper.
Here is my first intro paragraph:
If you think I'm smart just because I'm Asian, you've been terribly mistaken. So many times people have come up and told me "Oh, you're Asian so that must mean you're smart." It's a fairly common statement that I've heard so many times now. Typically after someone tells me this, I look at them with disgust. Really? This again? How many times do I have to be told that because I’m Asian that I’m automatically smart? Those who tell me this all say that by assuming all Asians are smart, they are really complimenting me on my intelligence. Though many honestly think that they are praising me for good academic work, it’s really more of a jab than a compliment. The statement seems to praise my academic excellence, but it underhandedly implies that I should be smart and that if I'm not, then I don’t live up to that person’s expectations. What seems to be a compliment to others is really an insult to me.
I realize that I should add more to this paragraph but...I'm too lazy tonight. I'm out.
Are you going to keep writing about stereotypes where Asian people are concerned or stereotypes in general? I think it is a very interesting idea, and I think I know a little something about that. Most people assume that because I am blond that I am an idiot. It really doesn't feel good and I feel like I have to do a lot to get past it. You can't pick your genes, but honestly I think I would like people to start out with the notion that I am smart than not. I look forward to reading your entire paper.
ReplyDeleteIf your focusing on Asians and you want a racy title you could do something like Asians: Good at Math, Bad at Driving.
ReplyDeleteI like this paper, I'll be excited to read this and I've never really thought of it that deeply from the Asian's perspective. I always thought it would be better than trying to prove you're smarter than your stereotype.
ReplyDeleteI really like the thoughts and ideas that you have put into this paper! Ever since we did that CP exercise in class that one Thursday, I've thought your paper has been on a good track!
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