Question

Describe a non-Western cultural practice

An argument for why this cultural practice should or should not be universally accepted.

Answer 1

I’m sure people will come here to tell us about cleaning their Anusi with water instead of paper because it is more hygienic or something. Or else the magic of squat toilets.

I’d love to see the proof about the water washing thing. Are there fecal-contamination diseases running rampant through Western countries that are not seen or are significantly less in those places where water washing is used? In my experience, nope.

And remember, the use of toilet paper is combined with hand washing with soap. Sure, if you just wipe your butt with toilet paper and then go out and knead some bread dough, you’re gonna have a bad time. The same goes for using a water wash on you behind.

I’ve been told squat toilets are cleaner or my hygienic. Again, not in my experience. Some people like the exercise or think it makes it easier to poop. I’m OK with the former, but I find explanations of the latter to be hand wavy. Eating more fiber seems to be have a much bigger effect.

For many other ‘non-Western is better’ they are either:

1. a matter of opinion. For example: the approach to taking care of family is better in Vietnamese culture than in the West because my parents are the best.
2. an assumption that because it’s American, it represents the entire West. For example: Polynesians have a healthier approach to sexuality than those uptight Westerners. Hint: visit Holland or Scandanavia

Finally, for those things that truly are better…well, they tend not to stay out of the West for long. One of the strengths of the West is a willingness to adopt ideas and practices from other cultures. Tai Chi, chai tea, and yoga are gobbled up in the West.