Today, I saw this illustration by Christopher Niemann in the New York Times' Learning Network blog and to be honest, I didn't really read the post. I was so struck by the illustration: we live in a world of stereotypes.

We can all admit that there have been times where stereotypes have been proven to be true, after all the perception came from something. But, we often don't have the chance to visit a place or meet people from different culture without preconceived attitudes.

A good example is my recent trip to Germany. My suitcases were not only packed with clothes, but stereotypes about Germans: they love order, like to drink beer and do not like small talk. And at times, I felt like there were stereotypes about me, an American: we're loud, overly friendly and impatient. All of these and none of these were true.

What I mean is that people are more complex than a handful of stereotypes. We can not truly experience a new culture or people when we've brought all these attitudes with us. We have to have an open mind.

What are some stereotypes or ideas you have about Americans? Tell me what you think about stereotypes.