Re: OT (sort of): Why such bad manners on comp.dsp?


Dear San,

I am not picking an argument here. However, let me further elaborate
the point you are making.

I also hail from Chennai, India, and have been here for quite some
time. And, the culture here is such that oldtimers consider it rude if
their relatives thank them for slight favours, and they often consider
"thanks" and "sorry" as reserved for non-relatives, whom we are
indebted to in some way or have gone out of the way to help us.

However, I disagree with the fact that saying thanks is alien in this
eastern country. What I have mentioned above is almost insignificant,
and people do express gratitude. At least now, for the past decade, I
can say for sure, saying thanks is the norm; I don't know how long you
have observed it.

Another point I want to make is that though the only language which
would bind our country together is English (Hindi is not spoken by the
south Indians), the unfortunate fact is that English is often learnt
using the mother tongue as a medium. Therefore, native English speakers
will find the usage of words very odd, and sometimes, even bordering on
not making sense, because the person posting thinks in his mother
tongue, and translates his/her query into English. Even native English
speakers who have had to use another language would appreciate that
this in not easy.

Once, I asked for the directions to a lady in the train and after that
I
got down from the train without saying thanks! I forget to say it and
I
too felt bad for it.

Well, when in Rome, do as Romans do. Even in Eastern countries (where
you feel that this may not be necessary, I don't know why), you must
make it a point to thank others for their favour.

And, as for comp.dsp, or usenet and mailing lists in general, I firmly
believe that etiquette is necessary. One must follow the norms accepted
by the world for using these online forums. Now, the fact that these
norms may seem western is not an excuse for not following them. So,
though you experienced persons should pardon new persons and first time
posts, persons posting must also be in the know of the resource they
are using, and give the respect it deserves.

Anyway, that's my view...

Comments/cribs welcome.

Kumar

Yes, I am ignorant, since I thought that the people working for this forum
are very kind and friendly. Bythen, What do you mean by south India? Don't
you know almost all the people in Kerala and Andhra speaks Hindi. In
Bangalore also everyone speaks Hindi. How far are you in Tamilnadu.
Haven't you heard people communicating in Hindi??? I think you have never
been to India. Its good to learn many things from you. Bythen, I can
understand the norms for this online form by looking at your healthy
discussions here.

(Eventhough, I won't hesitate to appreciate this form for having good
technical information )


.

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