Topic > The Danger of a Single Story: Stereotypes of Asian Americans

Before we begin the topic, the purpose of the essay “The Danger of a Single Story” is to provide an example of how this phenomenon appears in the lives of Asian Americans. As we know, the United States is one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the world due to its particular historical background and waves of immigration to the country. Among all ethnic minorities, Asian Americans make up a sizable percentage of the population. Statistics have shown that Asian Americans represent more than 5% of the entire population and that its population has grown by more than 70% since 2000. Despite their undeniable existence, this minority group is often overlooked and marginalized compared to other ethnic minorities. such as Hispanics and African Americans. When people talk about racism and racial stereotypes, the latter two groups are given much more importance than Asian Americans. This is most likely because Asian Americans have long been considered a model minority or the most successful minority group in the United States. They are labeled as intelligent, economically successful but socially awkward and isolated. This one-sided story is depicted in countless films, TV shows, and anecdotes. However, this is only a one-sided story that has led so many people to believe that Asian Americans do not face issues of racism and poverty, and therefore their marginalization. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay There is no denying that, in general, the income and education level of Asian Americans are higher than other minority groups such as Hispanic Americans. However, this does not mean that all Asians are successful, nor does it denote that economic power has prevented them from falling into racism and stereotypes. Statistics show that the median household income of Asian Americans as a monolithic group in 2015 was approximately $75,000, which is much higher than the national average of $59,000. However, one should not overlook the fact that there are some disadvantaged Asian groups, such as those from Southeast Asia, who earn much less than the national figure. For example, the average income of the Burmese was only $36,000 and that of the Nepalese was about $43,000, a figure comparable to that of other typically cited minorities such as Hispanics and African Americans. Therefore, generalizing all Asian Americans as successful and depriving them of attention and support is grossly unfair to the excluded and underprivileged struggling for life. This side story also portrays Asians as more intelligent and resourceful as well as labeling them as rich. group, creating even more prejudicial and discriminatory effects. For some time, some universities have had a quota policy against Asian Americans by requiring much higher qualifications and grades than other ethnic groups such as African and Hispanic Americans. “At Harvard University, 12% of Asian-American applicants are admitted, compared to an overall admissions rate of 15.2%, despite the fact that Asian-Americans have higher grades and SAT scores than others students. As previously mentioned, “Asian” is a monolithic group made up of people of different races, cultures, and intelligences. It is therefore unfair to consider all individuals within this group as having the same intellectual capacity. Although some ethnic groups divided among Asians, such as Chinese students, show better academic results from one point..