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Pastimes : Let's Talk About Our Feelings!!! -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: Ilaine who wrote (34840)	4/14/1999 5:30:00 PM
From: Dayuhan	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 108807

I'm curious: how long has this Afghani been living in the US? There are many possible contributing causes. One is that in his own country he was wealthy and well-connected, and in his country people in that category are largely exempt from the law. He may still be adjusting to the fact that in this country the perquisites of wealth and connection are slightly more subtle, and that in any event he is no longer wealthy and well connected. More significant, probably, is a dynamic which is seen time and again where I live, and in other countries where loyalty to kinship group remains far more important than loyalty to the community. The most common explanation for corruption here is simply that "he (or she; many of the worst offenders are female) did it for the family". It doesn't matter that the money may have gone to the casino, a gaggle of mistresses, expensive jewelry, or luxury cars; the point is that the status of the family is all-important, and blowing money as if it were water is a vital element in establishing status. Unfortunately, people here seem remarkably understanding and even accepting of this explanation. In many countries where this is a strong cultural factor the law is seen not as an essential element in sustaining a liveable community, but an obstacle to be circumvented whenever possible. Not trying to excuse, mind, just to understand. I wonder how long it takes for these attitudes to wear off, and I imagine that it depends largely on the individual. This one might fare better in a community where he was the only Afghan, and could drive a cab without losing face.