[bluishgreen]

I don't have citation, but I concur with the GP, I grew up in the east, and it is far easier to socialize and also form deep friendships because everything is said out in the open and not hidden behind layers of decorum. Here is an example and a demonstration. As an example people are allowed to comment on someone being too heavy or too thin with them present. Here is the demonstration: Now as soon as I gave an example I have made this a controversial topic for the western audience. There is no way to look past the controversy and talk about other things or form bonds based on speech. Only an infinite loop.

[jncfhnb]

You have cited one example of a hang up in the west that is not common in the east. That is not evidence that the east lacks hang ups.

Example: being openly gay. Demonstration: so taboo it’s illegal in some countries

[huytersd]

There’s plenty of bigotry like that but that’s part of being able to say what you like. I guess the idea is that a small minority has a pretty bad experience in life but the overwhelming majority feel content and speak their mind.

[generic92034]

Years of watching anime, though, has led me to believe a certain eastern culture is basically celebrating awkwardness. ;)