
Originally Posted by
IanB
Andypaul,
I apreciate your comment. But the fact that two countries are very different doesn't, in itself, seem a good reason not to compare them? What would be wrong is to say that one is better than the other.
My love affair with Thailand has lasted nearly 20 years. During that time I have explored the country, learnt about its history and culture, and married two of its people! So its going to be pretty hard for me not to compare other countries to Thailand or, for that matter, to any of the other countries I know well.
The differences between countries in SE Asia is fascinating. Mahatir, the former (and deeply unpleasant) leader of Malaysia, used to make a big deal about the "Asian way" and how the west had no right to impose its values on an area which had its own values. But is there really an Asian culture? Or even a SE Asian culture? Is there more in common between EU countries than Asian countries?
Whats equally interesting is how each country got to where it is - whether its successive colonisation, or the aparent stability of 400 years of monarchy. Across the whole region is the influence of the chinese, which is something that fascinates me in Thailand but about which I know nothing in the Philippines.
So I intend to carry on enjoying exploring a new group of friends and a new culture - sometimes by comparing with things I understand a little better.
Ian