I should have said how the Dutch are perceived, it wasn't a personal attack on you.
Overview quote:
The Dutch are often perceived as arrogant due to a cultural preference for extreme directness (directheid), which can come across as blunt, rude, or condescending to outsiders. This style emphasizes efficiency and honesty over polite socializing, often leading to unvarnished opinions being shared without consideration for social cushioning.
Here is why this perception exists:
Direct Communication: Dutch culture values getting to the point quickly, which outsiders may interpret as arrogance, superiority, or lack of empathy.
"Honesty" Over Politeness: The Dutch often prioritize being honest and transparent, viewing "polite" hedging as insincere or inefficient.
Egalitarianism and Individuality: They pride themselves on being equal and independent, which can be misconstrued as not caring about social conventions or other people's feelings.
Lack of Hierarchy: The Dutch generally dislike strict social hierarchies, leading to informal interactions that might seem disrespectful to those from more formal cultures.
Cultural Confidence: Their high proficiency in English and strong international reputation can be perceived as an assumption that everyone should adapt to their communication style.
This communication style is often mistaken for a personal attack, when in reality it is meant to be a professional or friendly exchange of information
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