This is new for me, I can't remember it being in yesterday's or today's newspaper. Hurray for objective press
. I do not believe the fault is entirely on the Belgian side: the Irani's should've agreed with a dinner with alcoholic beverages for those who wanted them. I think Lizin should have adapted to the Irani customs concerning greeting, in order not to offend them, but I understand the confusion, as it is normal to greet someone in the way it is done in the country you are visiting. If you go to Japan they expect you to bow, if a Japanese comes to Belgium we expect them to shake our hand. I see that as a sign of respect for eachothers culture.
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Originally Posted by C. Elegans Personally, I have always found it very strange that European culture is so fixated with alcohol. How can a toxic drug be viewed as an essential part of the culture and social interaction? |
Are you a total abstainer then? I think you exaggerate by stating that only European culture is fixated with alcohol. Nearly every country has it's own kind of alcoholic beverage, and Belgium happens to have a little more than others. The US, the ex-USSR, Asia, Latin-America, South- and Central Africa: everywhere alcohol is used to celebrate things or to create a pleasant atmosphere. Alcohol is only toxic when drank in large quantities: there's absolutely nothing wrong with drinking a glass wine or two a day. Serving quality wine is seen as a sign of respect and hospitality.