Please join like-minded “global thinkers” for a monthly discussion on the major political/economic issues that our world is currently experiencing. This month we are going to go a little “light” and perhaps not so serious, but still with a “global focus” and most interesting.
The topic for September will be:
A cross-cultural look at smoking – traditions, and etiquette around the world.
To cease smoking is the easiest thing I ever did. I ought to know because I’ve done it a thousand times. – Mark Twain
We are all aware of the health risks associated with smoking, and while most governments take some kind of anti-smoking action, there are many cultures around the world where smoking is almost expected, especially if you happen to be male.
Smoking rates vary greatly around the world. Countries in Asia have the highest rates. For example, 47.6% of men in China smoke, in comparison to 19.5% in the U.S. Gender also plays an important role. In China, only 1.8% of women smoke, compared to 15% in the U.S. 72.6% of Indonesian men smoke, in comparison to 8.9% in Ethiopia. The cultural variations in smoking rates are substantial.
So how do different cultures smoke? What is the etiquette of smoking – from hookahs and pipes with flavored tobacco to even how one holds a cigarette? In Japan during the Edo period, the elaborately decorated long-stemmed kiseru pipe was used to indicate wealth and status. What about the predominance of certain brands? For example, clove-flavored cigarettes, called kretek, dominate 90% of the Indonesian cigarette market.
In your time living, working, and traveling throughout the world, what are some of your own observations, and even experiences with smoking? Was sharing a cigarette with a stranger the first step in mutual hospitality and friendship?
Please join us at the Shoal Creek Saloon for what will be a very interesting discussion.
https://GlobalistCoffeehouse-Smoking.eventbrite.com
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