Stereotypes of Chinese People - Part II

Stereotype 6 - Every Chinese knows Kung Fu or other Chinese martial arts.
Fact - Kung Fu is the generalisation of multiple styles of martial arts that have developed over the centuries in China. The genesis of martial art is attributed to the need for self-defense, hunting techniques and military training in ancient China. However, in modern China, few people are fluent in Kung Fu. In general, people do not learn Kung fu. Some monks do learn Kung Fu to keep this part of Chinese traditional culture alive, but that’s about it.

Stereotype 7 - Chinese women are subordinate to men
Fact - This stereotype originated from movies about ancient China. In modern China, women embrace their freedom and are taking more and more important roles in society. Chinese women are more independent today than ever before. Personally, I know a lot of women who are so good at what they do, that they run their own business quite successfully.

Stereotype 8 - Chinese are brainwashed or mind-controlled by their government
Fact - The origin of this misleading concept comes from the 'Cultural Revolution'.  Although, we are not granted complete freedom of speech, especially in the media industry, Chinese are now more spiritually independent.

Stereotype 9 - The Chinese culture is continues to be the same today as it was thousands of years ago, which is traditional and conservative.
Fact - Modern China is very much like other developing or developed countries. Major cities in China such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou are much the same as other metropolises around the world. Also, based on my observation, people in Chinese metropolises are much more 'open-minded' than those in the US.

I would like to reemphasise that the purpose of this article is not to attack any group of people. In stead, the purpose is to introduce to you one side of Chinese people you may not have already known.

Ironically,Chinese people have stereotypes against other Chinese people who were born in different areas than them. Sometimes their statements are labeled 'geographical discrimination', but more often than not, people mean no malice. Here is a map of china, by stereotypes. Please remember: this map is seen as a JOKE among Chinese people.