Stereotypes of South Asians: Difference between revisions
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'''Stereotypes of South Asians''' are oversimplified ethnic [[ethnic stereotypes|stereotypes]] of [[South Asia]]n people, and are found in many [[Western culture|Western societies]]. Stereotypes of South Asians have been collectively internalized by societies, and are manifested by a society's [[Mass media|media]], [[literature]], [[theatre]] and other creative expressions. However, these stereotypes have very real repercussions for South Asians in daily interactions, [[current events]], and governmental [[legislation]]. |
'''Stereotypes of South Asians''' are oversimplified ethnic [[ethnic stereotypes|stereotypes]] of [[South Asia]]n people, and are found in many [[Western culture|Western societies]]. Stereotypes of South Asians have been collectively internalized by societies, and are manifested by a society's [[Mass media|media]], [[literature]], [[theatre]] and other creative expressions. However, these stereotypes have very real repercussions for South Asians in daily interactions, [[current events]], and governmental [[legislation]]. |
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Some stereotypes of South Asians overlap with [[Stereotypes of East and Southeast Asians]], such as the model minority stereotype and stereotypes of exclusion. However, not all stereotypes of Asians apply to South Asians, and South Asians have their own independent set of stereotypes as well. Some stereotypes of South Asians also overlap with [[Stereotypes of West and Central Asians]] because many |
Some stereotypes of South Asians overlap with [[Stereotypes of East and Southeast Asians]], such as the model minority stereotype and stereotypes of exclusion. However, not all stereotypes of Asians apply to South Asians, and South Asians have their own independent set of stereotypes as well. Some stereotypes of South Asians also overlap with [[Stereotypes of West and Central Asians]] because many [[India]]ns and [[Pakistan]]is have a similar look to those from the Middle East. |
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==Model minority stereotype== |
==Model minority stereotype== |
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==Confusion with Arabs== |
==Confusion with Arabs== |
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{{see also|Stereotypes of Arabs and Muslims|Anti-Arabism}} |
{{see also|Stereotypes of Arabs and Muslims|Anti-Arabism}} |
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In light of this confusion, Hollywood would have few scruples in frequently casting [[India]]ns as [[ |
In light of this confusion, Hollywood would have few scruples in frequently casting [[India]]ns as [[Arab]]s. [[Sikh]]s, who often wear [[turban]]s, were also frequently assaulted in the wake of the [[September 11, 2001 attacks]] due to this confusion. |
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==See also== |
==See also== |
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Revision as of 14:41, 19 December 2007
Stereotypes of South Asians are oversimplified ethnic stereotypes of South Asian people, and are found in many Western societies. Stereotypes of South Asians have been collectively internalized by societies, and are manifested by a society's media, literature, theatre and other creative expressions. However, these stereotypes have very real repercussions for South Asians in daily interactions, current events, and governmental legislation.
Some stereotypes of South Asians overlap with Stereotypes of East and Southeast Asians, such as the model minority stereotype and stereotypes of exclusion. However, not all stereotypes of Asians apply to South Asians, and South Asians have their own independent set of stereotypes as well. Some stereotypes of South Asians also overlap with Stereotypes of West and Central Asians because many Indians and Pakistanis have a similar look to those from the Middle East.
Model minority stereotype
South Asians as well as other Asian Americans have been stereotyped as "model minorities": hardworking, politically inactive, studious, intelligent, productive, and inoffensive people who have elevated their social standing through merit and diligence.
Particularly in Britain, South Asians have been stereotyped as being a majority of newsagent and convenience store shopkeepers, the stereotype Paki shop; and also making a majority of dispensing chemists and doctors, these are all again often associated as being hardworking. This stereotype was made fun in the television and radio sketches of Goodness Gracious Me by four British Asian comedy actors themselves. This stereotype also exists in America as well. Apu Nahasapeemapetilon from the animated TV show The Simpsons is a prototypical hard working South Asian convienence store owner who essentially never takes a vacation, has an arranged marriage and a large number of children.
Stereotypes of exclusion: Hindu invasion
Both South Asians and East Asians were subject to stereotypes of exclusion, especially during the late 1800s and early 1900s with the advent of what Americans called the Yellow Peril and Hindu Invasion. American newspaper headlines illustrating stereotypes of exclusion towards South Asians include: "The Tide of Turbans" (Forum, 1910) and "The Perils of Immigration Impose on Congress a New Issue: the Hindoo Invasion - a new peril" (Current Opinion, 1914).
Confusion with Arabs
In light of this confusion, Hollywood would have few scruples in frequently casting Indians as Arabs. Sikhs, who often wear turbans, were also frequently assaulted in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks due to this confusion.