What is actually really interesting about this attribution error is that it is more common in Western cultures than in Asian cultures. In other words, a Chinese is less likely to make that error than a European or American.

I think that it is truly rare for someone to do what you have done coming from a non-Chinese background. I certainly hope more of the foreign visitors who generalize all Chinese as rude get the chance to read this. I’ll certainly pass this around to anyone I hear badmouthing China.

Before anyone jumps on me for the praise, I’m half foreign half Chinese and was raised raised western style. I think Michelle is right that not many Chinese will comment on foreign blogs with negative comments because they are afraid of damaging their own and China’s reputation through using what they think to be poor English. I wish more fluent English speakers would practice this on youtube when they proceed to bash China videos using only swear words, empty rhetoric and downright disgusting condescention.

You certainly have read my blog, and I really don’t pretend to ignore those negative opions. I didn’t praise John, just I agreed with him like many people did, and most of them, I thought they are not Chinese. Moreover, in my opinion the reason that Chinese readership is often quiet for your complaint, is for firstly there are few Chinese people read your articles, secondly their English is not good enough to argue with you. (Of course, I didn’t mean my English is good enough, I just tried my best.) And if you want to hear more Chinese readership’s opinion, my advice is you can write them in Chinese. Then you can get more explanations that you want.

Regards,

-Michelle

This isn’t a rant or anything, just a curious observation. Personally, I want more explanations for the crazy behavior we so often comment on in these blogs…

You are very nice and understanding person. As a Chinese, I thank for your fair and correct opinions.