One aspect of Malcolm Gladwell's book Outliers that I can relate to is Chapter 8, Rice Patties and Math Tests. In this chapter, Gladwell explores the differences between Eastern and Western cultures and the effects. The staple food crop of Asian and European society had influenced the work ethics of both peoples: Asians have embraced the concept that hard work breeds great reward (Gladwell 238) while many Western students concede after a minute or two of struggling (245). I can relate with this chapter because my own parents are also adamant believers of this idea. They came to America and made a relatively stable living for me and my sisters. Since we were young, our parents inculcated us into accepting this mindset, and in my opinion, it served me well.
A connection I can make with this chapter and the earlier stated 10,000 hour rule. Asians are perceived as better at math, due to their tenacity, and so they are more motivated and encouraged to advance their skills, allowing them to achieve the 10,000 hours before their peers.
One question I have, however, is whether this also translates to American society; after all, Americans are well-versed in the same idea (named the American Dream) that Gladwell claims Asians have embed in their culture. So shouldn't Americans also be more willing to work harder?
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