Stereotypes of Asians

Stereotypes of Asian People, specifically East Asians, like other stereotypes, are often manifest in a society's media, literature, theater and other creative expressions. In many instances, media portrayals of Asians often reflect the dominant Eurocentric ideas of them rather than their actual customs and behaviors. However, these stereotypes have repercussions for Asians and Asian immigrants in daily interactions, current events, and governmental legislation. Asians have experienced discrimination and have been victims of hate crimes related to their ethnic stereotypes.

Asian Americans are also stereotyped with positive traits. Asians are seen as hardworking, politically inactive, studious, intelligent, productive, and inoffensive people who have elevated their social standing through merit and diligence. This label is given in contrast to other stereotypes which often accuse minorities of socially unwelcome traits, such as laziness or criminal tendencies. However, Asian Americans believe the model minority stereotype to be damaging and inaccurate, and are fighting to dispel this stereotype.

FU MACNHU: the "evil" Asian

Another stereotype of Asian people, spread by fictional characters. In The Insidious Doctor Fu-Manchu, Sax Rohmer introduces Fu Manchu as a cruel and cunning man, "with a face like Satan". Due to his enormous popularity, the "image of Fu Manchu has been absorbed into American consciousness as the archetypal Asian villain."