The stereotype express

Our world is filled with inconsistencies, inaccuracies and misconceptions. I think it's great. We are all guilty of basing opinions about others and their lifestyles off of little or no information at all. And when you sit back and think about it, it's really hilarious. \nSo let's take a look at this in more detail. Our first stop on the 'Stereotype Express' will be good ole America. Anyone who thinks we don't have stereotypes pointed at us must be naive. But taking a look at how we are viewed helps ring home how ludicrous this can be. Let's look at some examples.\nFirst prize in our "American misconception" contest would have to go to guns. This I find the funniest.\nDisclaimer: This is not meant to start a 'pro-gun, anti-shooting people' debate, so you Second Amendment commentators just keep those arguments in the holster.\nThat aside, I think it's hilarious that many other nationalities view us as a bunch of gun-toting, itchy trigger finger hot heads. It's great. When I went to England a while ago, some of my British friends sincerely asked how many times a day I saw a gun when I went to high school. The media had portrayed us in such a way with the recent school shootings that others had developed this image of American schools being some sort of war ground. No wonder our test scores are so much lower on average. Of course, with myself being the sarcastic person that I am, I told them I saw a gun at least once a day and heard a shot fired once a week. But that is beside the point. The fact is, this is the way they see us.\nAnother image of Americans I have found (and many people know this) is we are seen as being a very rude bunch who speak our minds and don't take anything from anyone. Combine that with the misconception that everyone is also packing heat, and I'm surprised we have a tourist industry at all. Now, I'm sure you're all shaking your heads in about the same manner as I did when I came upon this information, but it's the point I'm trying to make. So, the next time you're overseas, you'll understand why everyone else is tiptoeing around you trying to avoid confrontation. \nMisconceptions are everywhere. \nNow, when it comes to views on other nationalities, we Americans are no better. If you do sit back and believe every stereotype that's delivered to you, then my, aren't we the naive one?\nSo, the question is, who is to blame for all these wonderful misconceptions? \nPersonally, I would have to blame the media. Media -- be it newspaper, television or movies -- they are all to blame. But hey, I say get a sense of humor and don't take it personally. Just sit back and laugh.\nSo, all in all, everyone loves distinction, identity and individuality. I think we all insist on categorizing others instead of getting to know our neighbors better. But to each his own. I'm not here to preach. I'll even go so far as to say that it's these discrepancies that are the funniest. So of course, I'm not saying we shouldn't strive to educate ourselves. But until that happens, I'm just going to sit back and enjoy every second of every misconception.