It's completely irrelevant and insulting (and FYI I'm of Indian descent! Jeez!)
2006-09-08 01:14:53 · 30 answers · asked by solo 5 in Social Science ➔ Sociology
a) They are probably American. They like to know their Italians from their Hispanics. The reason for this is that a lot of them discriminate against Hispanics. When I worked there, the term they used for Hispanics was a derogatory one - "Spics".
b) Why would you feel insulted for being asked if you were Italian or Hispanic?
c) You love it really. You don't fool us.
2006-09-08 07:04:18 · answer #1 · answered by R.I.P. 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I'm not sure people are fixated on origins, perhaps it's more a fear of awkward silences? A seemingly irrelevant question fills in the time before they can either think of something more useful to ask or get away.
Also, I reckon people are inherently curious and I find it a shame you find this interest in you insulting – they may just be trying to get to know more about you, which is actually quite flattering.
2006-09-08 01:30:05 · answer #2 · answered by kpbunches 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Well, English people will often ask you because they are interested in you, not fixated with origins.
Personally, I often ask people about their origins and they are usually very happy and proud to talk about their own country. It's often a very good ice-breaker.
The reason people won't stop asking you if you're Hispanic or Italian is probably because you look like you possibly are to them.
Perhaps you could see their questions in a more benevolent light in future.
2006-09-08 05:29:42 · answer #3 · answered by dondon 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because people want to establish a touchstone with which to relate.
Perhaps they've been to Italy, or speak spanish.
People are trying to break the ice, and get to know you. Why must this be interpreted as offensive?
All the "stereotyping" and "pigeonholing" answers are from people who'd rather start an argument than make an acquaintance.
2006-09-08 01:22:25 · answer #4 · answered by Iridium190 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not many people care where you or anyone else come from, the only reason they ask is because it's an ice breaker. They probably thought you were cute and wanted to talk to you but couldn't think of what to say and that was the first thing that didn't sound stupid in their heads!
2006-09-08 01:23:08 · answer #5 · answered by babybitch69 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It's just out of interest. I don't think people are being rude. When I get asked where I'm from, I say London and then they say originally and I say London. I am originally from London. I was born here. If they asked me correctly ie where are your parents from, I would tell them Trinidad and Tobago and Grenada. Simple.
2006-09-08 01:25:39 · answer #6 · answered by b97st 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You sound like a spoilt little brat wherever you are from. I didn't think Indian people took the Lord's name in vain.
2006-09-08 01:23:43 · answer #7 · answered by mary.cargill55@btinternet.com 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you are American, people are worried about their origins.
However, I dont, like you, really amfixated with origins,
I am a German. Hungarian, Austrian-American
But the only thing that truly is important is the last word AMERICAN. In any survey I do I mark either AMERICAN or HUMAN.
Because regardless of what nation we live in we are still HUMAN, each 6.5 Billion one of us.
2006-09-08 01:20:46 · answer #8 · answered by futuregeologist 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I believe that we feel the need to know a person's origins in order that we can avoid saying anything inappropriate, which may offend.
2006-09-08 01:23:51 · answer #9 · answered by Nikky 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because they want to be part of the new fashionably ignorant sector of our country & label you as undesirable.
Instead they should take care of their own business!
And yes, it is very insulting that skin color seems to be of more value than the character of a person.
2006-09-08 01:25:04 · answer #10 · answered by lostintheclover 5 · 1⤊ 1⤋