Writer Lists '10 Major Flaws of Taiwanese People,' Sparking Widespread Agreement

Renowned Taiwanese writer Kuling has sparked discussion by listing "10 Major Flaws of Taiwanese People" on Facebook, emphasizing that his critique stems from a desire for societal progress rather than negativity. Kuling, known for his sharp commentary on current affairs, stated his intention was to address areas for improvement within Taiwan, a highly developed nation, encouraging self-reflection and betterment.

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The criticisms include a narrow worldview, susceptibility to online manipulation, policy-driven vote-buying, and a societal overemphasis on wealth.

Among the perceived shortcomings, Kuling pointed to a narrow worldview, attributing it to news coverage dominated by crime, accidents, and political bickering, which he feels marginalizes international perspectives. He also criticized the susceptibility to populist sentiments fueled by online memes and emotional slogans, leading the public to become tools of public opinion without factual verification. Furthermore, Kuling highlighted a persistent issue of "policy-buying" in Taiwanese politics, evolving from overt vote-buying during the KMT's one-party rule to more subtle methods, citing recent high-speed rail projects as examples of costly, vote-seeking initiatives.

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Taiwanese people are too prone to following trends; if someone sets a trend, shops immediately have long queues, and people even pay others to wait in line.

Kuling also addressed aesthetic and value-based concerns, suggesting that Taiwan's urban aesthetics and public art installations require enhancement, with many costly projects lacking visual appeal. He observed an excessive societal reverence for wealth, where financial assets often serve as the sole measure of an individual's worth, overshadowing virtues and contributions to public good. The writer also noted a tendency for Taiwanese people to follow trends blindly, leading to long queues for popular establishments, and a short attention span, where enthusiasm quickly shifts with new information.

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Taiwanese people are also very impatient, meaning that while their attention is easily ignited, it is also easily diverted by new information.

Additionally, Kuling touched upon the potential for misplaced altruism, citing disaster relief donations where public concern about fund misappropriation seems low. He also pointed out a perceived lack of international presence, leading to an overemphasis on national symbols in global settings, despite Taiwan's established international recognition. Kuling concluded by contrasting this critique with his assessment of China, which he summarized with just three words: "dirty, chaotic, deceptive." His post garnered significant agreement online, with many netizens endorsing his points and suggesting additional flaws.

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Taiwanese people's love for charity is easily exploited. For example, regarding disaster donations, Taiwanese people don't seem to care much about where the money goes or if it's being embezzled.