so is shusi bad becouse i love it and i talk to every one i dont realy talk about food to people lol i minght say "yea hey had sushi the other day it was so good " but i keep it moving after that
It seems to me that people rebel against cultural norms which remove them from that safe feeling of "home." It's such a powerful thing. I think they feel threatened on the deepest of levels. I understand this, assuming that I'm right, but the hatred they choose to engender is the greatest threat to our nation, in my opinion.
I am the proud owner of one tube of Wasabi paste and chopsticks, but I haven't had sushi in a couple of years.
I do not support Obama because he does not share my values. If I heard my minister say Goddamn Amerrica from the pulpit, I would have walked out.But you know what? It doesn't matter anyway and talk isn't going to fix what ails us. we're BROKE and borrowing from the Chinese. We dont make anything here anymore. The people coming here now are refusing to melt into the pot. Sushi? no thanks. I'll take apple pie.
However human nature does not change. The sad fact is that many of us thrive on confrontation, if not conflict, and the chances of getting agreement are poor. Even if you did, could you trust them?
Sadly I have had sushi only one time in the last 6 months - in Milan. E-gads there is no sushi restaurant near me - anyway, I fear it would be too expensive over here to become a regular at the sushi bar.
I used to be very engaged in politics. I am not now - it's too diffucilt now to discuss things that were once simply intellectual discourse without someone becoming offended when you don't agree with them.
if you're offering a round of toro, I'll be happy to agree with anything! LOL
Yes, speaking of factionalization, not surprised your neighborhood isn't teeming with sushi bars. As for the emotionality of political discourse, well, that was one of the things I was pointing toward in the vid.
Tom, apologies for my lack of brevity today but I do have one ancillary question related to your video. You indicated, and I agree, that the polarization of people into their respective camps is not a healthy thing.
Do you think it's at all healthy/useful for the 24/7 news media to constantly harp on the different demographic groups indicated by the exit polls?
It's puzzling how anyone could simplify Obama's support into the three buckets you've created. I support him because I believe he offers the best opportunity to re-frame the political dialogue in an era in which many are disenchanted with the old "red state, blue state" gridlock. So, yes, there are others who support him.
Tom, I very much share your concern about the great polarization that is occurring. Though the sushi divide doesn't work for me because I probably eat more of it than anyone else on here yet I strongly feel that Obama is the close cousin of a snake oil salesman.
Similarly, I bet that Condoleezza Rice, Thomas Sowell, and Michael Steele eat sushi on a regular basis too.
We used to have a common value and it was called the God of the old Testiment and the new. To argue this point is to dismiss the need for us as a nation to again find common values. Because it is a fact the God of the old testiment and the new is no longer our common uniting force. To say what I say is not pleasing to me or anyone that reads it. Therefore, I challange anyone to say this is a good point as a reply.
As a Half-Japanese Middle-Class person from Minnesota, I find it interesting that Western society views sushi as a delicacy exclusively consumed by rich people, while it is enjoyed by every social class in Japan and Japanese Americans(including myself). Good topic Tom.
This topic is very timely for me. I've been thinking about it as well, and have been planning a collab video addressing the very thing: how to have a respectful conversation between left and right that doesn't turn into a hateful "debate" (or what passes for debate these days). Yes, I think it's possible, but it ain't necessarily gonna be easy.
No doubt about it, Ken, it's very difficult nowadays. Many of us have developed hair triggers about differences and simply won't entertain civil conversation about them.
I think that it's in your own hands to cross those 'boundries'. You said something of politics... With this video you're doing the same you create groups,it's a giant paradox, by thinking that all the democrats or republikens are different from elgather. And don't communicate with elgather. The individual and what he does is more importer then who's he's voting for or whetever he eats sushi or not. Who knows is the republiken neighbour not agree with all the values that he's party stands for..
Even living in portugal i'm getting aware about that huge Berlin wall that is being created in the american hearts! YouTube made it possible to other countries to live it very closely! And yeah, you are right and it's sad that people are thinking too much about political differences and not about common needs and achievements! I hope after we get a president (and i say we because it matters to the entire world nowadays) everything will get to normal like it should be!
I want to be hopeful but it is difficult. Regional differences, educational differences, religious differences seem to be growing. We can't agree on what is important and our media and leaders use the frivolous and diversionary to distract us. Good leadership might help, but not if we don't abandon the cynicism that has been growing since JFK was assassinated.
I know people who will not associate with folks whose lifestyles and/or beliefs might go against or challenge their own belief systems. I find this to be extremely sad because they are missing out on potentially wonderful relationships all because of old, "passed down" ways of thinking.
In my latest vid, I said that I don't understand people who believe things a certain way just because that's the way looked at it. People who don't go beyond their comfort zones. Nice one Tom.
PS: Yes, of course it's possible to transcend cultural differences, but only if we are willing to listen to and respect others, regardless of weather we agree with them.
Hey Tom! So agree with you. Used to be the "melting pot", at least when I was growing up. We were taught to pull together as one group. Now, out of sensitivity to those who do not fit the "one size", we have a plethora of special focus groups. Will we ever get to pull together? Depends on both education styles and outside dangers. I'll bet on the human race any day, so I'd say yes but not anytime soon. Thanks for a thoughtful video essay.
Eighter way: I am looking forward with great interest to the election-battle between McCain, the war veteran and Obama, the idealist. Two worlds are already beginning to fight each other!
It takes generation to mixed. Another 50 to 100 years, problem will go away. My work place is diversed however, I lived in the area with large Asian population. Closer to my favorite Asian restaurants.
tom, I don't know if you meant it like this, but I took "sushi" as an analogy for our beliefs. Now, Im not saying that as religion alone, but all ofour beliefs. However, I feel that religion is something that gets in the way of what you were talking about. Atheists often dont even want to have a conversation with a theist. I don't think that those beliefs should play into what we can all agree on, like you said, what is important for us today and our future.
The socio-cultural and political balkanization of our country has been very deliberately implemented. It's largely media-driven, though certain government policies - especially budgetary priorities - have a big impact.
cultural identity is vital and empowering. being comfortable within a culture that is diverse helps to bring understanding. homoginizing humans is dangerous, and serves the interests of globalist exploitive mega-corporations. youtube's last remaining quality is the showcasing of multi-ethnic and religeous identity. I say, cling to your roots and honor the past, or we will all be wearing grey jumpsuits and Mcdonalds hats.
Last time I had good sushi was at Kazu in Norwalk. Politics is disturbingly more race and gender oriented more than ever as America gets balkanized. The politicians and their surrogates in the media encourage this sheep mentality and exploit it daily resulting in emotionally driven voting. Meanwhile, the only two rational candidates Kucinich and Ron Paul are marginalized.
Tom..I don't think you will be surprised when I tell you I have never eaten Sushi. Lots of sup beans and cornbread though. :)
When I was in Turkey my best friend was from Ithaca, NY. We didn't share the same religion, background or any thing, but we loved reading the same books and long conversations about those books.
Tom, you're a northern liberal who seems to think Obama is not the evil socialist I, a southern conservative, think he is. Nevertheless we have found common ground on a number of issues because that is the way normal, productive people interact with eachother. Politicians will always play the game of divide and rule because it works. I refuse to be boxed into a demographic.
Name-calling aside, the reason we've been able to find common ground is that we've been in a relationship that most of our fellow citizens never get to experience because of being boxed into a psychographic. That was the whole point of my video: we do not have opportunities to speak with one another that permit us to move beyond caricatures of one another, like "evil socialist."
Egad - no hostility intended! I don't really think you can be caricatured by a label anymore than me. After all how many other southern conservatives do you know who are atheists, want to end the drug war and legalize gay marriage? What I wanted to say is that I don't think that the politicians have been able to divide us very well.
I think there's always been a tremendous disparity among people in the US. I just think with the internet and the myriad forms of information that is currently available to us each day, those differences are magnified. I hear many different viewpoints dissimilar from mine all the time. The problem lies in the way political parties approach solving issues. I want less government interference. Others want more involvement. Those opposing approaches are not reconcilable.
One thing you make a good point about is common values and I must say that two party system does do, in reflection, a good job and promoting the idea of finding some common values. Because if it were an eight party system perhaps the winner would be such a polarizing force that the nation could not be united. Therefore, you have made me think and not be so critical against the two party system which in the past I felt was just two sides of the same coin to give the illusion one had a choice.
mr. tom, i think this issue very noticeable these days not only in states but in other countries as well ... people of certain interests .. finding the similarities and just avoid all the differences ... or those who don't avoid it are incapable to debate. now we see in universities people are totally avoiding politics and there is a consumer generation coming out of these universities. so we know the problem!! my question is what practical solution would you suggest to be done?! thanks
Create an Enation. where by people are able to vote on everything including the comment that I make here as well as if you felt it was respectful and or knowledgable. Perhaps you think I am aggressive to interject on a question intended for Tom and then the next time someone engages with me in the role of text commentor you can look at my voting ballot and form expectations and these can begin to form a picture of man, of community, and the nation itself, and with this information mak decisions
Yes, I really do think it's possible to transcend the cultural differences, and not just cultural differences. Since landing here, I've befriended people with different political views and religious affiliations that I never expected to. It's helped open my mind more than I could have predicted.
Ps. I've only tried sushi once, years ago, and didn't care for it. If anyone wants to hate me for that, so be it. I'm too busy gnawing on my fried chicken wing to care, yo!
Anyone that puts forth a contrarian opinion is instantly demonized and marginalized. Independent thought is discouraged, in modern politics. If you are critical of {insert any candidate here} then you MUST support {insert candidate of opposite party}. *sigh*
bipolar mentality of a lot of folks, worldwide is frightening isn't it allen. as if any policy driven problem has only two solutions...one guy or the other guys. i find most of the time, both parties are wrong.
Excellent video and point. The internet has made it trivial to custom tailor the information you're exposed to. That's not necessarily a bad thing, as you point out in your Twitter video, however, that same paradigm can act as an insulator, and worse a propaganda tool, if the information you surround yourself with isn't well vetted.
It becomes willful ignorance when people begin with a conclusion and seek out information that validates that conclusion regardless at the expense of objectivity.
good idea for a conversation. I suppose it is tough for us to look into ideas or topics we are against. We should all challenge ourselves by getting more info on the things we claim to be against or not care for.
Being social animals, I think people like to identify with certain groups. Then to build cohesion, they create talking points that help define what they are, and why they are better than the others. I think it usually leads to false dichotomies (sp? lol). I tend to think most matters are shades of grey rather than black and white. That's why I'll listen to almost anyone's point of view!
societal evolution happens in a sporadic fashion and with some distress.
somehow we decided in one election to test all the constituencies we could muster.
woman (wife of ex pres no less), black man (middle name hussein no less), old white war hero (prisoner in vitnam no less), and we had a morman, a hispanic, a libertarian purist...
how could this not be dividing constituencies.
But it all makes it easier next time because we will have gone thru this time.
We have to allow people to be themselves. It would be an imposition to ask them adopt a foreign culture if they do not wish to do so. We should encourage people to be more open to others too. Closed systems tend to stagnate. "E pluribus unum" allows for diversity. But, taken to extreme, too much individualism can isolate people.
i live in a place where everyone is very equal, and almost everyone gets along. there are mo cliques in my school, or anything like that, but i went to visit my friend, just a half an hour away, and it was so interesting how 'cliquey' she described her middle and high school as being. it was like a different world, where nerds are not popular. ( i live in a hippie town). it blew my mind how superficial they were.
Curious to know what the differences are for typical "consumption" of mainstream media and spectator sports for your town and your friends. I have a suspicion that many of our thought patterns are shaped by popular media and sports.
Sushi seems slimy. Slimy is no good. My only annoyance with the 'cocoons' that people are in is that a lot of people refuse to see the other side. If you are just an ordinary person I don't see why you need to have blind loyalties behind a party or person or belief. I'm young and new to politics, but I personally think that it is silly to not listen to what people who are not like me say about certain things. In fact I find it more interesting than dealing with people I agree with.
Bingo! Couldn't agree more. This was the point of the video: engage difference everywhere you find it rather than locking yourself inside your homogeneous world. Thanks.
Yes, of course. Politics is about numbers. Question is, how to get people to resonate with your message? Divide and conquer has been the theory of the case for decades. Can we create broader, deeper coalitions? This year may give us an answer. Thanks.
You used the phrase,"create cultural enclaves". Is that created or is that natural? Historically we lived in countries of people mainly of the same race and culture, broken up in to whatever class structure there was. So perhaps it's the "birds of a feather" that is normal, and we haven't figured out how to do the unnatural thing and put that behind. One thing that would help is that if more people realized and embraced the fact that people don't have to be like us or agree to be normal.
Very thoughtful comment. Yes, birds of a feather is what we're trying to overcome, to a great extent. If we did entirely what came naturally, we'd attack one another with rocks. Our task, embrace the alien. Huge challenge; key to our 200 year plus experiment. Thanks.
I have had sushi many times in the last 6 months. I moved to phoenix Arizona about 4 1/2 years ago from Missouri. I was happy to be able to be around different kinds of peoples, and learn about them, their cultures, and how and what they believe. It's amazing though, I grew up in a pretty prejeduce and parinoid part of Missouri. Nobody liked others that were different. I was happy to move here to phoenix and not have to listen to the ignorant talk of others.I think it's a choice.
I wish we could bottle your experience and send it to millions of others. Great example of how it's possible to transcend your origins. If I still thought the way my contemporaries in the Bronx did, I'd be a VERY different person. Thanks.
and what is the most fun is trying different foods. WOW!! when I first moved here, I couldn't even look at susi without getting sick. Now I can't get enough of it. LOL! A japanese guy complimented me one time in a sushi bar on how well I use chopsticks. LOL!!!
Question is, how can we get others to open their minds enough to re-think those "I won't..." or "I don't..." prejudices? Congrats on the chopstick congrats!
well, I'd imagine it would be like the old saying of people who go to church. "be careful how you act, you may be the only bible other people will ever read" Same concept and probably the oldest concept. Lead by example. You can't make people's choices for them. Others have tried by force and from what I see, that only causes rebellion and a desire to do the opposite out of spite.
Seems like many of us have decided that the path is "tell don't show." Lots of high and mighty out there today...leading to the understandable reactions that you describe.
Compelling video. A thought that came to me is that it's very common to hear people speak in terms of us and them. People get characterized entirely in one or two words. Consider religion; those on the outside often speak as though religious people are one homogeneous group, each person a mirror of another. Those inside see a spectrum of people from the adherent to the rebels. I think we'd all be surprised at the result if we'd communicate outside our safe little cuccoons. Great video!
And to answer the question, the only time I had sushi was around 7 years ago. I had one piece left, a nice pink bit I thought was salmon, and had already finished my beverage. I discovered this was not salmon but raw ginger. It was unfathomable to me why a completely useless piece of highly offensive ginger was added to the plate. I'm not put off by raw fish, I'm put off by the rice you have to eat along with the fish, and sundry shocking ingestibles. :D
Thanks very much. We caricature one another and then attack the caricatures. Finding the real subtleties escapes us but it's the only real thing to focus on. We are not cartoons.
No sushi for me. I have a fear of biting into a live worm... Yikes! There are a lot of live worms in government and politics. So, I can't bite into that either.
I like how easy it is to extend the questions you're asking to a global or local level along with the national one. It's all about finding solutions to work together.
I think I ate some eel back in the 80s... I have noticed that we have one story which we tell over and over again. We tell this story in church, school, judicial system, movies, you name it and you can find this story. The story goes like this: there are good people and there are bad people. When we listen to each other it is to figure out which one you are. It is hard to come together when we have an enemy image in our head.... I find this to be a tad frustrating.
It is a dangerous thing to me also, losing our liberties too is dangerous, liberty and justice for all is how it should be, I feel we have the tools with computers for corporations to become communitized, that is the power community, isn't that what we stand for? or is it the bottom line pathological profit?
seriously tho, yea. good point (of course). you're so unlike everyone i know. you outsider, you! i cannot identify with you.
god i'm so sarcastic today. i love your stuff. and i love all kinds of things about all kinds of people. i find it amazing (like you) that people will TRY to divide themselves from other people. craziness!
Hmm, ironic that I am watching American Experience on PBS about FDR (hiding his disability). Kennedy was Catholic. People tend to forget the hurdle society overcame (a bit) at that time.
Never tried sushi, can't get past the raw fish thing...politics = fishy. Oh wait, watching more of the video ... One Nation under God, indivisible has become one nation, under greed, divisible by politics and viewpoints. When we start thinking as I am an American #1 and all the rest is #2 then we might get somewhere. Or globally, I am human #1, and all the rest is #2. We are in the world of micro-marketing :)
so is shusi bad becouse i love it and i talk to every one i dont realy talk about food to people lol i minght say "yea hey had sushi the other day it was so good " but i keep it moving after that
jeniffer247 2 years ago
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gatordominance 3 years ago
Right On the money Video!
apks2004 3 years ago
It seems to me that people rebel against cultural norms which remove them from that safe feeling of "home." It's such a powerful thing. I think they feel threatened on the deepest of levels. I understand this, assuming that I'm right, but the hatred they choose to engender is the greatest threat to our nation, in my opinion.
I am the proud owner of one tube of Wasabi paste and chopsticks, but I haven't had sushi in a couple of years.
kalacaw 3 years ago
I do not support Obama because he does not share my values. If I heard my minister say Goddamn Amerrica from the pulpit, I would have walked out.But you know what? It doesn't matter anyway and talk isn't going to fix what ails us. we're BROKE and borrowing from the Chinese. We dont make anything here anymore. The people coming here now are refusing to melt into the pot. Sushi? no thanks. I'll take apple pie.
souixana 3 years ago
We Are All Family!
Peace and Love!
¥T
BELECTRODES 3 years ago
I am again sorry for my words to you brotha.
¥T
BELECTRODES 3 years ago
How could anyone disagree with your hopes?
However human nature does not change. The sad fact is that many of us thrive on confrontation, if not conflict, and the chances of getting agreement are poor. Even if you did, could you trust them?
periurbansdad 3 years ago
Sadly I have had sushi only one time in the last 6 months - in Milan. E-gads there is no sushi restaurant near me - anyway, I fear it would be too expensive over here to become a regular at the sushi bar.
I used to be very engaged in politics. I am not now - it's too diffucilt now to discuss things that were once simply intellectual discourse without someone becoming offended when you don't agree with them.
if you're offering a round of toro, I'll be happy to agree with anything! LOL
LeSaMilano 3 years ago
Yes, speaking of factionalization, not surprised your neighborhood isn't teeming with sushi bars. As for the emotionality of political discourse, well, that was one of the things I was pointing toward in the vid.
When the toro arrives I'll give you a buzz!
tlg847 3 years ago
I think we all decide to be in a bubble. Its human nature.
It doesn't make sense for a political candidate to focus on a constituency who wouldn't vote for him/her anyway.
I myself enjoy seeing alternative viewpoints but most of it is usually the same rhetoric said over and over again.
LeonWestbrook 3 years ago
Tom, apologies for my lack of brevity today but I do have one ancillary question related to your video. You indicated, and I agree, that the polarization of people into their respective camps is not a healthy thing.
Do you think it's at all healthy/useful for the 24/7 news media to constantly harp on the different demographic groups indicated by the exit polls?
Robert
vancouver57 3 years ago
Let me throw a curve ball of sorts at you and let you decide its merits. Might it be possible that Obama's "base" consists of 3 primary groups:
1. African-Americans.
2. People who never equated the need for work as a necessary requirement to get what they desire.
3. Liberal educated people who detest Bush and think Obama would be a "refreshing change".
Is there anyone else who really supports him?
vancouver57 3 years ago
It's puzzling how anyone could simplify Obama's support into the three buckets you've created. I support him because I believe he offers the best opportunity to re-frame the political dialogue in an era in which many are disenchanted with the old "red state, blue state" gridlock. So, yes, there are others who support him.
tlg847 3 years ago
Tom, I very much share your concern about the great polarization that is occurring. Though the sushi divide doesn't work for me because I probably eat more of it than anyone else on here yet I strongly feel that Obama is the close cousin of a snake oil salesman.
Similarly, I bet that Condoleezza Rice, Thomas Sowell, and Michael Steele eat sushi on a regular basis too.
vancouver57 3 years ago
You don't want to ask me. It's over 10 times...
Great video, Tom!
I was thinking about how we love to agree with people and how it is a challenge to disagree with getting upset.
Gimmeabreakman 3 years ago
We used to have a common value and it was called the God of the old Testiment and the new. To argue this point is to dismiss the need for us as a nation to again find common values. Because it is a fact the God of the old testiment and the new is no longer our common uniting force. To say what I say is not pleasing to me or anyone that reads it. Therefore, I challange anyone to say this is a good point as a reply.
evotelution 3 years ago
As a Half-Japanese Middle-Class person from Minnesota, I find it interesting that Western society views sushi as a delicacy exclusively consumed by rich people, while it is enjoyed by every social class in Japan and Japanese Americans(including myself). Good topic Tom.
sakathom 3 years ago
Thanks. That's a perfect example of culturally-determined meaning. Blue jeans in Asia in the 90s had a similar dual meaning.
tlg847 3 years ago
This topic is very timely for me. I've been thinking about it as well, and have been planning a collab video addressing the very thing: how to have a respectful conversation between left and right that doesn't turn into a hateful "debate" (or what passes for debate these days). Yes, I think it's possible, but it ain't necessarily gonna be easy.
kenrg 3 years ago
No doubt about it, Ken, it's very difficult nowadays. Many of us have developed hair triggers about differences and simply won't entertain civil conversation about them.
tlg847 3 years ago
I think that it's in your own hands to cross those 'boundries'. You said something of politics... With this video you're doing the same you create groups,it's a giant paradox, by thinking that all the democrats or republikens are different from elgather. And don't communicate with elgather. The individual and what he does is more importer then who's he's voting for or whetever he eats sushi or not. Who knows is the republiken neighbour not agree with all the values that he's party stands for..
adeadlyrapper 3 years ago
Great video.
Methadone4Life 3 years ago
Agreed. Pretty obvious, but well said.
Whether it's Berkeley vs. West Virginia, or Fox News vs. CNN, it's not easy to find mediums.
10aces 3 years ago
Yes. I am from West Virginia but am about as Berkeley as anyone. Very liberal,open minded and such. Good comment.
Methadone4Life 3 years ago
we could all go back in time and learn all the languages of the world .. be a world citizen or not. who cares.
themindfuck 3 years ago
I've never had sushi, but I suspect that nobody really likes sushi. They eat sushi because it makes them a person who eats sushi.
mistaspot1 3 years ago
I've heard that term echo chamber before. . . .
I'd talk to more conservatives if they would stop being so mean!! hehehehe
citizenkong 3 years ago
Great video Tom!
UnfamousJames 3 years ago
Even living in portugal i'm getting aware about that huge Berlin wall that is being created in the american hearts! YouTube made it possible to other countries to live it very closely! And yeah, you are right and it's sad that people are thinking too much about political differences and not about common needs and achievements! I hope after we get a president (and i say we because it matters to the entire world nowadays) everything will get to normal like it should be!
f3xpgm 3 years ago
I want to be hopeful but it is difficult. Regional differences, educational differences, religious differences seem to be growing. We can't agree on what is important and our media and leaders use the frivolous and diversionary to distract us. Good leadership might help, but not if we don't abandon the cynicism that has been growing since JFK was assassinated.
FantasticBabblings 3 years ago
I know people who will not associate with folks whose lifestyles and/or beliefs might go against or challenge their own belief systems. I find this to be extremely sad because they are missing out on potentially wonderful relationships all because of old, "passed down" ways of thinking.
In my latest vid, I said that I don't understand people who believe things a certain way just because that's the way looked at it. People who don't go beyond their comfort zones. Nice one Tom.
OddRustle 3 years ago
PS: Yes, of course it's possible to transcend cultural differences, but only if we are willing to listen to and respect others, regardless of weather we agree with them.
OddRustle 3 years ago
Hey Tom! So agree with you. Used to be the "melting pot", at least when I was growing up. We were taught to pull together as one group. Now, out of sensitivity to those who do not fit the "one size", we have a plethora of special focus groups. Will we ever get to pull together? Depends on both education styles and outside dangers. I'll bet on the human race any day, so I'd say yes but not anytime soon. Thanks for a thoughtful video essay.
crazymml 3 years ago
I think I ate my last sushi last friday or so.
But I buy only the sushi from the supermarket.
Eighter way: I am looking forward with great interest to the election-battle between McCain, the war veteran and Obama, the idealist. Two worlds are already beginning to fight each other!
ogier1 3 years ago
It takes generation to mixed. Another 50 to 100 years, problem will go away. My work place is diversed however, I lived in the area with large Asian population. Closer to my favorite Asian restaurants.
noformstyle 3 years ago
Like hats! lol
geezerart 3 years ago
tom, I don't know if you meant it like this, but I took "sushi" as an analogy for our beliefs. Now, Im not saying that as religion alone, but all ofour beliefs. However, I feel that religion is something that gets in the way of what you were talking about. Atheists often dont even want to have a conversation with a theist. I don't think that those beliefs should play into what we can all agree on, like you said, what is important for us today and our future.
paint1487 3 years ago
never had sushi just like I've never had a legitimate government.
paint1487 3 years ago
The socio-cultural and political balkanization of our country has been very deliberately implemented. It's largely media-driven, though certain government policies - especially budgetary priorities - have a big impact.
Very thoughtful video.
robtran 3 years ago
Hmmm...I don't eat sushi, but most of the people I know do. Course I do drink latte...
DClaudeKatz 3 years ago
cultural identity is vital and empowering. being comfortable within a culture that is diverse helps to bring understanding. homoginizing humans is dangerous, and serves the interests of globalist exploitive mega-corporations. youtube's last remaining quality is the showcasing of multi-ethnic and religeous identity. I say, cling to your roots and honor the past, or we will all be wearing grey jumpsuits and Mcdonalds hats.
DoctorMetropolis 3 years ago
Last time I had good sushi was at Kazu in Norwalk. Politics is disturbingly more race and gender oriented more than ever as America gets balkanized. The politicians and their surrogates in the media encourage this sheep mentality and exploit it daily resulting in emotionally driven voting. Meanwhile, the only two rational candidates Kucinich and Ron Paul are marginalized.
snouter 3 years ago
amen to this staement snouer. hit it on the head.
battim 3 years ago
Most of us cannot afford a 2nd home in Manhattan. I don't know if that makes a difference.
wheateater 3 years ago
To be very literal with your statement about the sushi, it's true.
I've had sushi twice these last two months and I only have spoken to those who have tried it.
As for the enclave, I agreed with that one back in August of last year in: ?v=ptcKoKAI1Hw
It's hard to interact with what doesn't agree with one. If it upsets you should you still consume it at the risk of indigestion?
A few really good considerations, the evasion of harsh irrational judgment and a fervent assuage for personal glory.
Bibbly53 3 years ago
Tom..I don't think you will be surprised when I tell you I have never eaten Sushi. Lots of sup beans and cornbread though. :)
When I was in Turkey my best friend was from Ithaca, NY. We didn't share the same religion, background or any thing, but we loved reading the same books and long conversations about those books.
Frank
ockteby 3 years ago
never
KiheiLawyer 3 years ago
Tom, you're a northern liberal who seems to think Obama is not the evil socialist I, a southern conservative, think he is. Nevertheless we have found common ground on a number of issues because that is the way normal, productive people interact with eachother. Politicians will always play the game of divide and rule because it works. I refuse to be boxed into a demographic.
wogsland 3 years ago
Name-calling aside, the reason we've been able to find common ground is that we've been in a relationship that most of our fellow citizens never get to experience because of being boxed into a psychographic. That was the whole point of my video: we do not have opportunities to speak with one another that permit us to move beyond caricatures of one another, like "evil socialist."
tlg847 3 years ago
Egad - no hostility intended! I don't really think you can be caricatured by a label anymore than me. After all how many other southern conservatives do you know who are atheists, want to end the drug war and legalize gay marriage? What I wanted to say is that I don't think that the politicians have been able to divide us very well.
wogsland 3 years ago
I think there's always been a tremendous disparity among people in the US. I just think with the internet and the myriad forms of information that is currently available to us each day, those differences are magnified. I hear many different viewpoints dissimilar from mine all the time. The problem lies in the way political parties approach solving issues. I want less government interference. Others want more involvement. Those opposing approaches are not reconcilable.
New2UToob 3 years ago
One thing you make a good point about is common values and I must say that two party system does do, in reflection, a good job and promoting the idea of finding some common values. Because if it were an eight party system perhaps the winner would be such a polarizing force that the nation could not be united. Therefore, you have made me think and not be so critical against the two party system which in the past I felt was just two sides of the same coin to give the illusion one had a choice.
evotelution 3 years ago
mr. tom, i think this issue very noticeable these days not only in states but in other countries as well ... people of certain interests .. finding the similarities and just avoid all the differences ... or those who don't avoid it are incapable to debate. now we see in universities people are totally avoiding politics and there is a consumer generation coming out of these universities. so we know the problem!! my question is what practical solution would you suggest to be done?! thanks
mahdiayat 3 years ago
Create an Enation. where by people are able to vote on everything including the comment that I make here as well as if you felt it was respectful and or knowledgable. Perhaps you think I am aggressive to interject on a question intended for Tom and then the next time someone engages with me in the role of text commentor you can look at my voting ballot and form expectations and these can begin to form a picture of man, of community, and the nation itself, and with this information mak decisions
evotelution 3 years ago
I guess the Southern equivalent of sushi would be grits.
canukus 3 years ago
Yes, I really do think it's possible to transcend the cultural differences, and not just cultural differences. Since landing here, I've befriended people with different political views and religious affiliations that I never expected to. It's helped open my mind more than I could have predicted.
Ps. I've only tried sushi once, years ago, and didn't care for it. If anyone wants to hate me for that, so be it. I'm too busy gnawing on my fried chicken wing to care, yo!
;-)
OhCurt 3 years ago
In Vancouver, sushi is fast food, only better.
Ubermensch18 3 years ago
Anyone that puts forth a contrarian opinion is instantly demonized and marginalized. Independent thought is discouraged, in modern politics. If you are critical of {insert any candidate here} then you MUST support {insert candidate of opposite party}. *sigh*
JustA11en 3 years ago
Allen, as a member of the Insert Any Candidate Here party, I am highly offended.
8-P
OhCurt 3 years ago
bipolar mentality of a lot of folks, worldwide is frightening isn't it allen. as if any policy driven problem has only two solutions...one guy or the other guys. i find most of the time, both parties are wrong.
battim 3 years ago
Excellent video and point. The internet has made it trivial to custom tailor the information you're exposed to. That's not necessarily a bad thing, as you point out in your Twitter video, however, that same paradigm can act as an insulator, and worse a propaganda tool, if the information you surround yourself with isn't well vetted.
It becomes willful ignorance when people begin with a conclusion and seek out information that validates that conclusion regardless at the expense of objectivity.
lazlo5149 3 years ago
good idea for a conversation. I suppose it is tough for us to look into ideas or topics we are against. We should all challenge ourselves by getting more info on the things we claim to be against or not care for.
You're on to something here Tom
dallasINtokyo 3 years ago
Sushi? prob like 20 times i the last 6 months.. it's amazzzzzzzzzzzzing!
KrisMTL 3 years ago
Being social animals, I think people like to identify with certain groups. Then to build cohesion, they create talking points that help define what they are, and why they are better than the others. I think it usually leads to false dichotomies (sp? lol). I tend to think most matters are shades of grey rather than black and white. That's why I'll listen to almost anyone's point of view!
KennyWrites 3 years ago
I wish it could be. I wish for those values for everyone. I happen to adore diversity. I wish more did.
Good points here. ~Raven
RadicalComedy 3 years ago
societal evolution happens in a sporadic fashion and with some distress.
somehow we decided in one election to test all the constituencies we could muster.
woman (wife of ex pres no less), black man (middle name hussein no less), old white war hero (prisoner in vitnam no less), and we had a morman, a hispanic, a libertarian purist...
how could this not be dividing constituencies.
But it all makes it easier next time because we will have gone thru this time.
peace.
cambridgee 3 years ago
Self interest and prejudice usually gets in the way. The Karl Roves in this world make a living by exploiting this.
beornborg 3 years ago
I like Sushi, but I sure don't like Obama.
vitalfinds 3 years ago
We have to allow people to be themselves. It would be an imposition to ask them adopt a foreign culture if they do not wish to do so. We should encourage people to be more open to others too. Closed systems tend to stagnate. "E pluribus unum" allows for diversity. But, taken to extreme, too much individualism can isolate people.
httprover 3 years ago
It doesnt matter if you love sushi or not
all that matters is that we all hate the celtics, patriots, and red sox
^^that message would unite democrats & republicans in swing states like Ohio
Cleveland indians and cleveland cavaliers both suffering playoff losses from Boston teams.
RIPPPtheJacker 3 years ago
i live in a place where everyone is very equal, and almost everyone gets along. there are mo cliques in my school, or anything like that, but i went to visit my friend, just a half an hour away, and it was so interesting how 'cliquey' she described her middle and high school as being. it was like a different world, where nerds are not popular. ( i live in a hippie town). it blew my mind how superficial they were.
madsawayART 3 years ago
Curious to know what the differences are for typical "consumption" of mainstream media and spectator sports for your town and your friends. I have a suspicion that many of our thought patterns are shaped by popular media and sports.
OhhhThatGuy 3 years ago
Sushi seems slimy. Slimy is no good. My only annoyance with the 'cocoons' that people are in is that a lot of people refuse to see the other side. If you are just an ordinary person I don't see why you need to have blind loyalties behind a party or person or belief. I'm young and new to politics, but I personally think that it is silly to not listen to what people who are not like me say about certain things. In fact I find it more interesting than dealing with people I agree with.
steveinjersey 3 years ago
Bingo! Couldn't agree more. This was the point of the video: engage difference everywhere you find it rather than locking yourself inside your homogeneous world. Thanks.
tlg847 3 years ago
btw politicians HAVE to play the numbers or they are not politicians for long.
jay1p 3 years ago
Yes, of course. Politics is about numbers. Question is, how to get people to resonate with your message? Divide and conquer has been the theory of the case for decades. Can we create broader, deeper coalitions? This year may give us an answer. Thanks.
tlg847 3 years ago
I agree with you there. If they did what was right and fair for everyone, they would be out of a job.
grandplans 3 years ago
You used the phrase,"create cultural enclaves". Is that created or is that natural? Historically we lived in countries of people mainly of the same race and culture, broken up in to whatever class structure there was. So perhaps it's the "birds of a feather" that is normal, and we haven't figured out how to do the unnatural thing and put that behind. One thing that would help is that if more people realized and embraced the fact that people don't have to be like us or agree to be normal.
jay1p 3 years ago
Very thoughtful comment. Yes, birds of a feather is what we're trying to overcome, to a great extent. If we did entirely what came naturally, we'd attack one another with rocks. Our task, embrace the alien. Huge challenge; key to our 200 year plus experiment. Thanks.
tlg847 3 years ago
I have had sushi many times in the last 6 months. I moved to phoenix Arizona about 4 1/2 years ago from Missouri. I was happy to be able to be around different kinds of peoples, and learn about them, their cultures, and how and what they believe. It's amazing though, I grew up in a pretty prejeduce and parinoid part of Missouri. Nobody liked others that were different. I was happy to move here to phoenix and not have to listen to the ignorant talk of others.I think it's a choice.
grandplans 3 years ago
I wish we could bottle your experience and send it to millions of others. Great example of how it's possible to transcend your origins. If I still thought the way my contemporaries in the Bronx did, I'd be a VERY different person. Thanks.
tlg847 3 years ago
and what is the most fun is trying different foods. WOW!! when I first moved here, I couldn't even look at susi without getting sick. Now I can't get enough of it. LOL! A japanese guy complimented me one time in a sushi bar on how well I use chopsticks. LOL!!!
grandplans 3 years ago
Question is, how can we get others to open their minds enough to re-think those "I won't..." or "I don't..." prejudices? Congrats on the chopstick congrats!
tlg847 3 years ago
well, I'd imagine it would be like the old saying of people who go to church. "be careful how you act, you may be the only bible other people will ever read" Same concept and probably the oldest concept. Lead by example. You can't make people's choices for them. Others have tried by force and from what I see, that only causes rebellion and a desire to do the opposite out of spite.
grandplans 3 years ago
Seems like many of us have decided that the path is "tell don't show." Lots of high and mighty out there today...leading to the understandable reactions that you describe.
tlg847 3 years ago
I buy my Sushi at The Dollar Store.
robrobbins 3 years ago
Wow, a very "Red State/Blue State" thing to do!
tlg847 3 years ago
Compelling video. A thought that came to me is that it's very common to hear people speak in terms of us and them. People get characterized entirely in one or two words. Consider religion; those on the outside often speak as though religious people are one homogeneous group, each person a mirror of another. Those inside see a spectrum of people from the adherent to the rebels. I think we'd all be surprised at the result if we'd communicate outside our safe little cuccoons. Great video!
CanadianNinjaMonkey 3 years ago
And to answer the question, the only time I had sushi was around 7 years ago. I had one piece left, a nice pink bit I thought was salmon, and had already finished my beverage. I discovered this was not salmon but raw ginger. It was unfathomable to me why a completely useless piece of highly offensive ginger was added to the plate. I'm not put off by raw fish, I'm put off by the rice you have to eat along with the fish, and sundry shocking ingestibles. :D
CanadianNinjaMonkey 3 years ago
Thanks very much. We caricature one another and then attack the caricatures. Finding the real subtleties escapes us but it's the only real thing to focus on. We are not cartoons.
tlg847 3 years ago
No sushi for me. I have a fear of biting into a live worm... Yikes! There are a lot of live worms in government and politics. So, I can't bite into that either.
dorotwhy 3 years ago
Ooo, that's s nasty fear...both in cuisine and in government!
tlg847 3 years ago
I like how easy it is to extend the questions you're asking to a global or local level along with the national one. It's all about finding solutions to work together.
I wish sushi was more filling and less expensive!
ghostwise 3 years ago
Thanks. That's a thoughtful compliment.
Me too on filling/price!
tlg847 3 years ago
Sushi never !! lol...lol
kidblood1 3 years ago
C'mon! Real men eat sushi!
tlg847 3 years ago
great vid Tom I never liked sushi and thought is was disgusting until I moved to another place and tried it. Exposure seems to be the key.
TheTowTruckDriver 3 years ago
Open-mindedness is the first step, for sure. Thanks.
tlg847 3 years ago
I think I ate some eel back in the 80s... I have noticed that we have one story which we tell over and over again. We tell this story in church, school, judicial system, movies, you name it and you can find this story. The story goes like this: there are good people and there are bad people. When we listen to each other it is to figure out which one you are. It is hard to come together when we have an enemy image in our head.... I find this to be a tad frustrating.
2of6Solutions 3 years ago
That is a great observation 2/6. One story, which is now getting really old and boring. Thanks.
tlg847 3 years ago
It is a dangerous thing to me also, losing our liberties too is dangerous, liberty and justice for all is how it should be, I feel we have the tools with computers for corporations to become communitized, that is the power community, isn't that what we stand for? or is it the bottom line pathological profit?
natem20 3 years ago
as for sushi only once when I indeed came to Nyc from Boston looked at the waitress and requested the sushi with a pleasant smile.
natem20 3 years ago
Hard for us to see beyond these simplistic divides, but we must if we're going to solve some of these intractable problems. Thanks.
tlg847 3 years ago
omg its tlg847!! i'm starstruck!
seriously tho, yea. good point (of course). you're so unlike everyone i know. you outsider, you! i cannot identify with you.
god i'm so sarcastic today. i love your stuff. and i love all kinds of things about all kinds of people. i find it amazing (like you) that people will TRY to divide themselves from other people. craziness!
i have 101 characters remaining!
HowLongCanUMakeAName 3 years ago
LOL! Yes, you should be starstruck in my presence!!
It is amazing that we look for the smallest things to use as proof that we are irreconcilably divided, when, in fact, we agree on 95% of our values.
Thanks. I'm at 278!
tlg847 3 years ago
People have a hard time with dialogue. They tend to also have an equally difficult time with agreeing to disagree.
(gimme some sushi)
LilCav68 3 years ago
Agreeing to disagree has given way to disagreeing to agree. Weird.
Ahi, coming up, Maria!
tlg847 3 years ago
Sushi, great.
Hmm, ironic that I am watching American Experience on PBS about FDR (hiding his disability). Kennedy was Catholic. People tend to forget the hurdle society overcame (a bit) at that time.
LilCav68 3 years ago
I watched part of that show, too, Maria. Worrisome that it would be impossible to elect a giant like FDR today.
tlg847 3 years ago
i love sushi!!!
i have it every day.literally!lol
drumrock66 3 years ago
Never tried sushi, can't get past the raw fish thing...politics = fishy. Oh wait, watching more of the video ... One Nation under God, indivisible has become one nation, under greed, divisible by politics and viewpoints. When we start thinking as I am an American #1 and all the rest is #2 then we might get somewhere. Or globally, I am human #1, and all the rest is #2. We are in the world of micro-marketing :)
UpDownMostly 3 years ago
If we look for things that divide us, we're bound to find them. Thanks, Tim. BTW, sushi's great!
tlg847 3 years ago