David et al.:

David Haberstich wrote:

> I am not condemning cultures.  I merely said I'm opposed
> to foot-binding.  I consider it a hideous practice.  If it
was
> the central defining feature of the culture, then I
suppose
> that would be tantamount to condemning the culture.  But
> was it central?  You tell us; you're the expert.

I'm far from expert, though I appreciate the compliment -
even if backhanded and drenching in sarcasm.  There is
plenty of verifiable information for anyone with time and
access to a library or www.google.com.  (Doing a bit of
research before replying might be advisable to others?)

With countless billions of women between the T'ang Dynasty
and the Revolution of 1911, I'd say foot-binding was a
defining feature of Chinese culture.  It was developed for
purely aesthetic purposes -- but because an instrument for
power differentials, chastity, eroticism, and more.  It was
supported by the monarchs, the aristocratic classes, the
general populace, and Confucianism.  So, I cannot but think
it was a defining feature of the culture.  I'm not putting
it down.  It was what it was.

What I am putting down is a person who would cast judgments
about cultural practices beyond one's own culture.  That you
are against foot-binding now is fine . . . . but to look
backward, to 8th through early 20th century China, and cast
that judgment is illogical.

On the other hand, one who criticizes only those who
criticize remains an open-minded person.  The 'vicious
circle' you point to is that one who criticizes critics is a
critic him- or herself . . . and is then rebuffed - by
those, like yourself - who say, "Wait a second . . . YOU are
a critic, too, and you are guilty of the same wrong."
However, there is a difference between one who universally
criticizes foreign cultural practices and those who say, "In
that time and place, it was common practice . . . but I
reject it for here and now."

The end.

Twist these words to your heart's content, David.

Sincerely,

Jay Heuman

=========================================================
Important Subscriber Information:

The Museum-L FAQ file is located at http://www.finalchapter.com/museum-l-faq/ . You may obtain detailed information about the listserv commands by sending a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "help" (without the quotes).

If you decide to leave Museum-L, please send a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "Signoff Museum-L" (without the quotes).