Outrage as Obama Grovels at Emperor’s Feet
- Categories: Japan, News
- Date: Nov 16, 2009 17:07 JST
- Tags: Bizarre, Celebrities, Mass Media, Obama, Politics, Saudi Arabia, USA
President Obama’s decision to bow and scrape before Emperor Akihito during a recent state visit has angered many in the US even as it has pleased many in Japan, with critics saying the American president should not be going with crooked knee before the world’s kings.
He bowed low and deep – only by actually kneeling at the Akihito’s feet could he have expressed greater “respect.” The bow was of course not returned by the emperor.
Previous American leaders have taken care to treat Japan’s ruined monarchs as equals or mild inferiors – MacArthur famously had Hirohito come to him to take his orders, and recently vice-president Cheney remained conspicuously straight-backed as he shook the emperor’s withered hand.
A significant brouhaha in fact ensued when Clinton appeared to bow to Akihito, which was denied at the time by the ambassador in typically Clinton-esque fashion: “It was not a bow-bow, if you know what I mean.”
The previous emperor, Hirohito, was in the eyes of many an unrepentant war criminal who only escaped the gallows thanks to the necessity of confronting Russia, so it is no surprise he was never honoured, but his nondescript successor is regarded more positively.
Conscious of the great sacrifices made to rid the American people of monarchical parasites, for 200 years the US’s official diplomatic position has been that monarchs should humoured with nothing more than a handshake, so this gesture actually marks a significant change in policy, unwelcome in the eyes of many.
Obama’s obeisance might have been passed off as a gesture of contrition for the sake of manipulating an ally’s public opinion, but Obama recently made a similar grovelling performance for no less than the king of Saudi Arabia, a regime most in the west regard as utterly despicable.
Of course, the bow was well received by many in Japan, although with the Japanese Democrats being relatively sceptical of the imperial system this might not have quite the same effect it might have enjoyed had the emperor’s LDP fanclub still been in office.
this is all part of his plan, making the world leaders feel safe and powerful then BAM! stick them all in an eroge. wait what?
Obama would need a royal codpiece. We need to start a fundraiser....
bow down and upper cut :)
It just shows how sincere president obama is when dealing with co-equal heads of state. Actually there's nothing wrong with what he does, only those narrow minded conservatives raise an issue when there is indeed none to begin with. In addition it's thinking in such ways is what leads to racial discrimination. So get over yourselves
An "equals" bow in Japan isn't anywhere near that deep. I suspect someone at the state dept. looked up "bowing to the emperor" and didn't take into account the fact that Obama is a head of state himself.
When we don't understand or see a person's point of view that happens to be different than ours we call them narrow minded oh and blame them for racism. Nice
MAN!
lol I think Grovel is a harsh word, those Americans are idiots. It's a true sign of respect and modesty on Obamas part, why shouldn't he bow, he can do whatever the fuck he likes, and he chose to bow Obama 1 - America 0. Yes the more i see these things the more i place Obama and America in seperate categories.
So do I, but not for the same reason, dumbass.
Yeah, the Americans are "idoits" because they dont want their "elected" representative and the most powerful person on the planet to get down on his knees every time he comes across medieval titles like King etc. If McArthur knew that one day the US president would have to pander to this Japanese monarchy he would have surrendered the US in 1944 itself. Obama makes me sick to be an American-the useless tool.
Yeah, the most powerful person on the planet. The title is not in fact President of America, but President of the World. So of course he shouldn't bow to other rulers, because those rulers are THAT important that he must avoid their customs to assert and further make evident his massive power. That would just show how ganster he is.
Osananajimi ha Daitouryou is as far as it can get at the moment.
Example:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vYrjHoI2iUs
Stop connecting that game to real life, I'm actually trying to fap to Fujino and Fuu-chin.
Funny how the arrogant bastards who are denigrating the President for showing respect to the Emperor didn't make a peep when he did the same for the Queen of England...is it only the non-European figureheads that don't deserve respect?
He hardly acknowledged the Queen of England with a tilt of his head and gave her a tacky gift from the white house souvenir shop.
It's ridiculous for the elected leader of any democracy to recognize any tradition honoring kings or dictators.
In Obama's case I bet he'd bow to Castro. His communications advisor said she admired Mao.
You know, it's the fact americans think of themselves so high and mighty that no one likes us. What's so outrageous than showing some respect and courtesy to people you need on your side. I'm actually surprised this is an issue at all. Japan is an american ally, this isn't the 20th century anymore. It's not like he's bowing to Hitler.
It's about time that the foreign leaders get the respect that they deserve. Then again, being from NH.....we have MUCH different viewpoints, being half-asleep what with 2009 being an off-year politically.....
Fund it.
... so like, either it's gonna turn into a yaoi eroge, or you'll get heroines like the queen (Queen Elizabeth).
Obviously, Obama was just dodging from an assassination attempt the fancy way.
with what? a shoe like they did to bush?
Never watched Austin Powers?
I heard he upgraded his shoe to once covered in dog feces.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5D5oKEVqQJg
or killing another fly, this time with his head.
to bad they fucking missed...
He's building international support.
It's easier to call in favors when other countries actually like us.
You still need Yokosuka, Kadena, Misawa and Okinawa in case "Dear Leader" happens...
You mean, in case of Fallout happening.
keep your friends close and your enemies closer
nice Napoléon Bonaparte quote you have here anon ;)
Actually, it's: "one must keep his friends close, and his enemies even closer". corrected that for you.
Ghengis Khan had a better one:
"Keep your enemies out, they piss in your yurt. Keep them in, they piss out your yurt."
meh all i know is he still has like 3 more years out of 4 so... ima give him a chance till the bitter or sweet end
Keep your freinds clode, your enemies closer, the people you feel "meh" about close as well, the freinds of freinds close as well and the second cousin of that guy you once met in college closest.
In this way you need never fear them, particularly the cousin.
Cirno you are a genius!
Just nuke them all to hell.
sorry, we tried that already.....and I think that even the warmongers in the US were horrified at the results.
obvious troll
It's too late, someone beat him to it.
http://www.sankakucomplex.com/2009/03/12/president-obama-rozen-asos-ero-manga-debut/
It was a fucking traditional Japanese bow. You're a moron if you think Obama was "groveling".
I think Artefact may be sarcastic/mocking the outlandishness of some of the criticism of the President.
Or he's just trolling. Actually, that's more likely.
There are actually 3 (if not more) grades of bows
1. a slight nod
2. full frontal bow
3. grovel
I think obama just got too enthousiastic and exhagerated his nod into a full bow. Maybe he should asks his diplomats for the right routine next time :)
faggot
the 1. 2. 3. was by me, keep forgetting to log in ftl :(
Happens to me
butthurt? :))))))))))))))))))
Anonymous
18:02 16/11/2009
:))))))))))))))))))))
ohh woops my bad, I mean canti
:))))))))))))))))
perhaps ur just butthurt
A full frontal bow was the proper way to do it in the situation. It would have been too much if he stayed like that for awhile but if he just bowed quickly in greeting then that would have been proper. Bowing for extended periods would be for someone above you, apologizing, or trying to get something from someone.
PS. People don't get on their knees and put their head to the floor anymore.
Exactly. Except when you've pissed off the yakuza boss ;)
don't forget to notice that they shook hands at the same time.
i'm not too familiar with all the finesses of japanese honorifics, but i'd say barack greeted akihito with the same respect he greeted him in this situation. bowing this deep might not have been necessary, but that's a much smaller fauxpas than standing firm.
They do if they are Muslim like Obama
So, just because his middle name is Hussein, you are going to assume someone is Muslim? This is the problem with religion, it spawns too much hatred.
I'll co-sign on that. Enthusiasm to show respect can be a good thing but maybe not so much here.
i think the article is about how americans were outraged that their president bowed to another leader :o
personally i dont care obama is just trying to earn that Nobel peace prize :p
hmm.. he already has one... ... ... for doing nothing... .. .. whats above a nobel for groveling?
hmm, you jealous that you don't have one?
You maybe right about he over did it but dam Obama is what 2 or 3 feet taller, imagine how far down he has to to make it look like he is actually doing something.
I wonder. When talking about the meaning of a bow in relation to how deep it is, is it compared to the person doing the bowing or the recipient?
Looking at the relative height of the two, it is a deep bow for obama but still only dips just below the head of the emperor, making it a shallow bow.
It's technically impolite for Americans to bow or show supplication to royalty and, at best, a little insincere given America's conflicted history with regards to monarchies.
Even Queen Elizabeth III has openly discouraged Americans attempting to bow or curtsy to her in public for just this reason.
then your just like the other faggots then huh, now STFU and GTFO! nukka
It's more than a little amusing that the Americans are the most polite posters here.
Hey now, be polite. This is a politeness post, you see.
Politeness.
There hasn't been a Queen Elizabeth the third yet.
We're still on the second.
I've committed a faux pas!
Time to bow again.
Keep bowing until you get it right!
This isn't England or other countries where bowing is only done with royalty. Japanese people have different degrees of bowing that they will do with everyone that isn't a close friend or family member. (except younger people)
Though the degree of the bow is also under scrutiny. It seems he perhaps bowed a bit too much, though this kind of mistake is more easily forgiven as it's one born from good intentions.
You have to be careful though. IIRC, there's a certain Path to Somewhere paved with 'Good Intentions'.
Japanese bow to each other among equals. It isn't necessarily a mark of subjugation. Probably should have stopped at 45 to 60 degrees rather than a full right-angle, though.
Well, being impolite is what us Americans are best at!
Technically, he was bowing at nearly a right angle so, according to Japanese tradition, it's about as close to grovelling as you can get while still technically standing.
here here
Presidents aren't suppose to bow. He's simply continuing his campaign of "America has always been evil and let us kiss your ass to makeup."
is it wrong?
Or he's actually trying to show respect to a fellow leader and not look like the pompous asshole that most of America is content to look like.
It was a simple gesture of respect. Yes, he did bow a little low, but if he was just being enthusiastic, it's not really a big deal.
If you're at another person's house (or in this case, country), you treat them with respect. Acting like a dick is a good way to not get invited over again.
Honestly, this whole "Our president is better than everyone and so are we" attitude is probably the reason most of the world hates us. :\
Your right that is why
Yeah because a firm handshake and a willingness to work side by side doesn't show respect at all.
Nope it doesn't. Look at Hitler and Mussolini.
its treating each other as equals... if the emperor bowed as well, and as deep, no problem, but he was straigh backed. so hand shake and thats it. nobody is above anybody.
the only person that the president should bow to is General Zod!
he was trying to be plite and thats good but i realy wish the emporor had reterned the favor but then aguin mabe they had made a secret deal , obama bows low and emporer gives him a zoid or mabe a gundom , u may not hear about it but if he starts frequently visiting area 51 u now know y
Actually, the bow was probably to prevent Emperor from developing a psychosis like that of Sarkozy, in relation to their relative height difference with Obama.
Why not?
I see no problem with it.
What's so wrong about respecting fellow world leaders? especially within their own country? You're essentially a guest, and should act accordingly.
that makes sense
He could always puke on the guy like Bush Sr. did with the PM or whoever
And honoring their customs (i.e., bowing as a greeting)...
Still. Too deep.
He should not have done it while shaking hands and possibly not that low but otherwise I see no problem with it.
Yes. Bow, or shake hands, but not both at the same time.
Possibly an error in etiquette, but I don't see any fault in being polite.
Maybe he was apologizing for Bush (Sr.??) throwing up in their PM's lap a few years back.
I honestly don't see anything wrong. Just like what one of the Anonymous commenter said, what's wrong with showing respect to another world leader in there own country?
Just shows that Obama's not a power and image-hungry dunce like other American leaders.
Plus one my brother.
Obama is just knows when and how to behave. Since he is already president, he needs to pacify other countries. So adopting some of their basic customs is a necessity.
Many Americans have forgot about the crisis they themselves created. Many fail to understand their economy is still in ruins while most of Asia still remained intact. In fact pride, is America's hubris.
I would prefer to rub shoulders with people who try to understand my culture. Not someone living in his/her own world thinking that he/she is the supreme being. Well if that is the case, you can be king. But what is a king without people?
I think its stupidity and not pride, but i agree wit you though...
-As far as Obama is concerned he is a great improvement over the uncultured baboon we had as a president before.
The baboon was Cheney.... the chimpanzee was Bush.
thats great now check this out!
http://www.examiner.com/x-27927-Louisville-Martial-Arts-Examiner~y2009m10d28-Nunchuks-Cool-but-Useless
"In fact pride, is America's hubris."
Aside from the fact that pride *is* Hubris (and that your comma is AWOL), I agree with the totality of your statement.
Compared to the attempted government power grab over a large chunk of the economy, Obama is probably the most power hungry president since FDR.
Any of his slack jawed suck ups can continue to worship him.
Obama might as well started licking the Emperor's shoes like the spineless wanna-be tyrant he is.
I'm glad that Obama is showing the proper cultural etiquette it show's that he actually cares about foreign relations and takes the time to figure out how other countries work.
plus one
plus fail
Cultural etiquette? The bow was poorly done by Japanese guidelines, though Obama meant well and they appreciate the gesture.
Diplomatic etiquette? He's made himself look a bit goofy.
Considering he's done the same thing before, the cultural etiquette part is hardly anything involving a particular country's culture.
This guy needs a better protocol officer in the state dept. After giving DVDs to the queen in England, he still doesn't seem to have found a balance.
dvd's to the prime minister, ipod to the queen, and we gave back a Winston Churchill bust that was given to us after 9/11. and now bowing to other world leaders.... yeah... smart one we elected here.. -_-
Actually, DVDs to the Prime Minister and iPod to the Queen might be seen as being too intimate to the two of them. Who else gives you DVDs and iPods? Oh, right, you friends and families.
yeah... cool bro
i still say he shouldn't have touched QEII .... bloody twit
Perspective, guys. Imagine it's discovered a celebrity has an unusual habit or something - no one really cares much except for the people who were already in that circle, already interested. The world of business, the world of fashion, the world of music, etc. will have events that others find insignificant.
I'm only explaining why this might be news in some places. As for this place, I can't guess.
well, it also depends on the degree in which he bowed. If he did a full straight 90 degree bow, now obama is just kissing ass to other world leaders. A polite, 45 degree bow while shaking the hand suggest politeness and respect for one another without the impression of friggen swearing obedience to them.
Basically this.
The people who don't realize that Obama made an etiquette faux pas (ironically by trying to be over-respectful) simply don't know that etiquette and cultural respect is more complicated than simply trying to look as humble as possible.
Helloo
Obama is showing how a fit person can actually bend 90 degrees.
Americans are just jealous they can't even bend over their fat gut to see their genitals.
Also:
Respectful bow?
What is this madness?
THIS is AMERICUHHHHHHHH!
FUCK YEAH! comin again to save the motherfuckin day yeah!
No, this is Patrick.
This is madness!
This is SPARTAAAAA!
NO. This is Patrick.
I thought it was Sankaku and it's C-c-c-Combo Breaker!!
NO THIS IS PATRICK!!!!!!!!!!!!
C-C-C-C-C-C-C-C-C-C-C-C-COMBO BREAKER!
American dicks are so large we don't have to bow forward to see our genitals. Unfortunately, Japanese are often not that fortunate. I understand Obama also gave the Emperor an Xbox360 as a gift.
ROFL .. wouldn't put it past him
uh, Obama is an American.
dumbass
I didn't know Kenya was part of America. :)
Not this again
I'm sure it will be
That's called Dickydo Syndrome: Their bellies stick out further than their dicky's do.
I see no problem, the US citizens are just faggots, not gay but stupid ass rednecks homophobic dipshits that they think they are better than anyone else, no body is better than the other we are all equal. Don't let dipshit faggots tell u what is bad or what is good cause their faggots.
this proves my point
my god I can't believe sum faggots are just butthurt cause of this bad rating they voted haahha
I wish I could just pass over this and think, english isn't your first language, and excuse you for having less command of speech then my 3 year old sister. But I know that's not the case.
whos says you get to talk faggot.
Who says you do? :D
At least 23:18 has basic mastery of English... Go troll in your country of origin.
(Technically, a bow means not only respect but also acknowledged inferiority. In Japan, social superiors never bow lower than their inferiors, so one can imagine that the Japanese are also greatly amused by this turn of events.)
Exactly. And since the emperor ain't gonna bow to nobody, nohow, Obama really went overboard.
the emperor is an emperor... he is a GOD!!! like the thai king!! a symbol of awesomeness!!!
and they don't bow to anyone but their equals... ( ie .. no one..) ...
The Emperor of Japan has not been held as divine since 1946.
There is a nice picture of Hirohito and Nixon that shows how to do it right. Same angle for each, arms to the side, maintain eye contact.
YEAH USA IS FAG! AND ALSO GAY ASS SHITS WHO FUCK THEMSELVES!
Did you really just say we're the one who are better then everyone else, whilst simultaneously showing you have very little tolerance for a certain group of people your self? GG.
@Neonie, ur very retarded aren't you.
So many stones, so few intact glass houses. :-D
I think Obama is quite possibly the only president so far that enjoys much more support and popularity in the rest of the world than in his own country.
I sadly find that true
What is there not to like about a well dressed and educated tall dark guy with more numbers on bank his paycheck than on my bank account?
When you're paying said paycheck and don't have much say on what he does with it, you tend to worry a bit more about his spending habits.
There just happens to be quite a lot of people funding his salary and not everyone's pleased.
Maybe under his adminstration, the US will invade themselves for a change and try to free them from the (American) fundamentalists ...
what makes you say so?
didnt bush and some sheik hold hands?
Actually, Bush kissed his hand.
The clouds of cognitive dissonance currently suffocating the conservatives in the United States won't allow them to remember that.
no we remember... and we were just as pissed off at him... thank you.
It's not the fact that he bowed - it's the fact that his bow is horribly wrong. No proper bow is made while shaking hands. It may make him look humble, but also makes him look terribly ignorant.
leik you
laik uss awl
That isn't entirely true since there has been some crossover. I have seen Japanese people bow and shake hands with Americans.
Ya, and JFK didn't say 'I am a Berliner' he said 'I am a jelly doughnut'. In German you don't say 'ein' if you want to say 'I am a Berliner/American/etc.' and a Berliner is also a kind of jelly doughnut. That doesn't change the fact that the Germans knew what he was trying to say.
Its the same here, Obama didn't do everything perfectly but the Japanese know what he meant to do and it was apparently well received by them. Either way, the article is directed at the Americans who are flipping out because Obama is treating the Emperor with respect.
He was being respectful. Maybe we can actually get somewhere with foreign relations now.
well of course
I love how people always try to use gestures of respect and common politeness as the whole 'kissing ass or looking weak', this is usually the view of people that are so set in their own ignorant view of how the world is suppose to work for them and how everyone should act like them because they are cool that way. -.-
I wish everyone would try to understand one-another, President Obama at least is setting an example, knowing that many American's will try to use this against his image and portrait him as weak or defeated.
Sorry for the long post, Anon out!
thats like what I said saying the US citizens are just faggots, read it.
And as I've said, you should study a bit more on history and etiquette.
Obama's bowing is well-meaning but ultimately ignorant. And in start contrast to the relatively flippant way he's treated the British royal family.
tell me about it... the bugger has been pretty inconsistent ... he is just asking for trouble...
say hello to a Bull moose candidate in 2013....
COMMUNIST TRAITOR!
With this black guy America is doomed! Im surprised that he didnt made a kowtow to the chinese.
@Anon 03:35,:facepalm: GTFO NOAW!
Americans who blast Obama for being respectful as a guest on foreign soil and meeting the Emperor of a country who believed until only 60 years ago as an amalgamation of the Pope, the President, and the King?
They are the same people who would treat a guest poorly because they disagreed with his point of view, such as Ahmedinejad's visit to the U.S. He points out that you do not treat guests poorly, in lieu of attendees humiliating him on his visit to a university after having been invited, even if they are justified in disagreeing with him.
Then again, America is a relatively young country, and doesn't have a strong tradition of hospitality because of that entire "stand up for yourself, fiercely independent, etc." bullshit.
I would say that Americans are dickholes, but President Obama is a great guy, so the representative of Americans being respectful makes it all up. We love Obama for not being a bumbling idiot. lol better than "Battleship Yamamoto" or throwing up on the Prime Minister's lap.
plus one bro!
The general lack of general respect plaguing American culture at the moment can in part be blamed on the mindset of selfish assholishness made popular in America by Ayn Rand and the diseased philosophy she preached.
There should be some kind of Godwin's Law with with Ayn Rand instead of Hitler.
Hitler was a better writer than Ayn Rand.
Ayn Rand was more of a man than Hitler ever was.
And yet, she was less of a human than he was.
I think you missed out Jesus in that list of amalgamations, as the emperors claimed direct descent from the goddess Amaterasu.
I wonder how america can be so catholic and yet so hating,when religion actualy learns them to be nice to other people.
Certainly america is understanding something wrong there
Ummm, America isn't a Catholic nation. (It's Protestant.)
Mostly Protestant, but your point is taken.
Well Fonzer, sadly Religion still puts forward the mindset of there being 'Us' and 'Them'. So, of course there's gonna be that certain clannishness involved in any foreign relation which happens anywhere in the world.
You want coorperation and understanding between divergent peoples? Ban Religion and Political Ideology. Scrap everything and start fresh....
.... because, let's face it. It can't go on for too long without there being a massive imbalance which'll cause everything to come crashing down around our ears, no matter what the Public Relations people or optimists will say.
Banning Religion and Political Ideology actually have been tried and not only failed to promote understanding between people but heralded in policy of terror and death.
Consider the regime's of Stalinist USSR (20 million), Maoist China (20-30 million people), and Hilter's Germany (far too many to count directly and indirectly) as examples.
whatever you guys/girls want your country to do or say is fine.. I as an American say this...
Screw the world! we don't care that you like our President, we know you like him because he is bowing to you, and apologizing to the world for American exceptionalsim. We do think we're better than everybody else, and America as the best country in the world... but you know what... You think Your better, and your country is the best in the world.. we'll sorry for having the same view point as the rest of you, except that we back it with our back bone, and not a flimsy noodle.
I respect our President, but i don't like him for being Mr. Appolgy to the rest of the world, that and destroying the U.S. Economy......
end of rant
douche
BWHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAH
case in point, mate... thank you for representing your "great" nation....
American are just fucking racist, through out the history they have look down on other races beside themselves, it's historical fact. Obama, unlike the other American Presidents (he's black), respect all races as equal unlike those white people who think they are better than anyone on earth.
just like I said that US citizens are faggots
"American are just fucking racist, through out the history they have look down on other races beside themselves" Which is why the popular vote went well in favor (by national election standards) of Obama? Amirite? Seriously, faux outrage is just the far reich trying to get back in power by using "the politics of personal destruction."
Don't worry, everybody's racist against Americans--nothing new here.
Agreed. Everyone calls Americans faggots and other demeaning name BUT it is the Americans in the wrong. Point at another and find three fingers pointing back.
can't we all just get along and enjoy our Loli in peace??
Look out everyone. Anon is playing the race card.
"...unlike those white people who think they are better than anyone on earth."
Look who's not being a racist, everyone! 8D
It's hard to be racist when you have an outright contempt for every stripe of stupidity on the planet. So to you anons out there preaching your doctrines of racist outrage, a heartfelt FUCK You.
Oh! And Have A Nice Day. :|
Obama's all about the embracing of local customs.
Next up, Chikan! Toot toooot!
Obama's gonna have to go down low on the lady train.
Anyone else recall that bizarre chikan post a while back with the upside down guy? That's what popped into my head when you said that.
Interesting, I thought Obama was asking the Japan Emperor to look and see that there are no marks of the beast on his scalp.
...........-_-'' why does everyone get so bent out of shape for respecting tradition. It's just because he's a black guy.
Obama's black? Why wasn't I informed about this??? And I voted for that bastard!
(Actually... I didn't vote...)
No he's not,He's Irish!
We must inform the media about this ASAP!!! Quick, call 911
Or is it.....
Ah but of course Obama did wrong. A politician with no manners nor respect is the latest trend in the US.
It only takes a cursory knowledge of international history and standards of diplomatic etiquette to realize that Obama's doing nothing more than making himself look a wee bit silly.
I can't believe this news actually led people into discussing different methods of bowing....what next? Tips and strategies for a proper handshake?
If you don't already know the secret shake then you never will.
Roman Salute
I see what you did there.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IIAdHEwiAy8
Those damn fascists!
Actually...
There are whole books published in Japan on the topic of how to bow in various situations.
It's good to show respect, but Obama did it wrong. A 45° should be acceptable, while 90° is like begging.
it's not like he bows most of the time. I guess he was being safe. "Wait, is this 45? better make it 90."
This. It's not like he's a fucking walking encyclopedia of cultural customs.
But if we could build one...
Furthermore, Obama actually taking into consideration other people's culture is a far cry from the last president's incredibly ham-fisted attempt at foreign relations.
He's not a walking encyclopedia, but he has diplomatic staff in Japan who should have advised him on things like this.
and so, Obama is blameless, and the issue of outrage is moot. Unless you wanna start shit about the diplomatic staff.
Well he did hand pick his staff, so ultimately the blame does lie with him.
and they failed to work for him properly. So he's blameless.
Its just the americunts that think theyre the biggest and best and poking on everyone who do not respect them. I see nothing wrong in Obama showing some respect to others. Somethimes it's good, you know.
especially in comparison to a president who was giving Angela Merkel a backrub. God, I hate white presidents.
I'm American and I haven't heard or seen anyone point out anything wrong or unusual about Obama's behavior. I think it's a very classy and respectful move. Was this news story invented, or are some dumb fucks actually making a stink about it?
Drudge Report from L.A. Times
Fox too.
And the Hell-A Times and Fox News are such bastions of neutrality, amirite?
Seriously, the only ones up in arms about this are the neocons, and I have no pity for them whatsoever.
*Miroku74 plays the World's Smallest Violin for the Neoconservatives*
They made their bed... they have to sleep in it.
The news section of Fox News or the opinionated side? lol
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/10/30/jon-stewart-takes-on-war_n_339788.html
Technically, it's an etiquette faux pas, but one the Japanese took with grace and acknowledgment of Obama's good intentions.
To the Americans, however, there's really no way to react other than to facepalm.
You'd be suprised at how much damamge control your local news providers have with news relating to themselves. Its the international news providers that do the damage.
What are Americans bitching about? so what if he bowed to the Japanese Emperor? USA can still kick Japan's ass, there's no need to rub it on their faces and be a rude ignorant jerk.
but can they kick their arse with Animu? hahaha!
or better yet... if the rest of the world gangs up on USA.. haha!
think about that...
Code Geass R2 was just a warning to usa .....
Wow, seeing those ppl criticize and complaining about this surely made me somewhat believe that some (if not most) Americans are indeed to obsessed with national pride. Heck, Obama is just doing the Jesus Christ way; behaving like a commoner despite being a leader.
This is quite possibly the nicest way anybody's described the incident, without insulting or denigrating anyone.
Sincere kudos, MaidNiac.
You are forgetting something. Maybe a revision of recent history of Japan could clear up your mind.
All I know, Jesus was gay.
I have to agree with the point MaidNiac made. :)
Next thing for Obama to do is to knee in front of Bin Laden.
Stupid! You're making a fool of americans.
Compared to you Carter was a nation's grand hero.
KILL WHITEY
*taps race card*
Did anybody else notice that Dick Cheney is standing on the emperor's carpet with his shoes on!
And the rug was just shampooed!
People forget the 200 year old monarchial policy was more to deal with european kings after we formed our own nation. It wasn't really intended to look towards all rulers globally the same, as there are obvious massive differences say between the rulers of pakistan and Bhutan for example.
Yeah, and the British monarchy 200 years ago is DIFFERENT from the British Monarchy of now. Remember: George III = batshit insane, Queen Elizabeth II = nice old lady who hugged with Michelle Obama.
They are both sat on the equivalent of billions of dollars their ancestors robbed from the people.
stfu, fucking communist. Go fuck an unwashed revolutionary fighter.
Oh, I forgot, you're a bourgeois hypocrite who thinks it's ironic to attack his socio-economic superiors while benefiting from his own status.
And don't tell me you're in Sudan right now.
why don't you attack the pope too?
I think you misunderstand, perhaps easy enough in your case. I was attacking monarchy on the basis that monarchs use(d) coercive force to appropriate wealth from actual workers and capitalists, which usually ends up being squandered by inbred incompetents. Even today they are allowed to retain these vast and ill-gotten fortunes, frequently with support from taxpayers.
I said nothing about supporting leftist politics - that was your invention.
as like presidents of republics are free?
... and our elected leaders do the same as the monarchs of past did... so sod off youself righteous pompous twat...
If you can't tell the difference between an elected leader and the likes of the Sun King you deserve whatever tyranny it is you are espousing.
'Elected' really means nothing in this world. People only see the 'face', but never really get to see the people pulling the strings. You don't elect the men behind the man.
For every one man smiling and shaking hands there are ten preparing his scripts, writing his agenda, giving their 'opinions'.
In fact, as an elected president, he does not wield absolute power as a monarch might, thus he is subject to influence, pressure and subtle coercion from other men in high places.
However sophisticated you think your open democratic style of political system is, just remember that its not disneyland.
FFS, it's already going to be year 2010 soon.
Bowing to Tyrants one day, Monarchs the next...what the fuck is he thinking? I understand paying proper cultural respect, but the Emperor isn't bowing back, that is not a mutual sign of respect.
TLDR: Obama is being a bitch and trouncing on 200+ years of NOT bowing to kings. Especially not descendants of kings that ordered the slaughter and rape of millions of Chinese and dragged America into a bloody war.
gg Obama. Next he'll be bending over instead of bowing forward.
>Especially not descendants of kings that ordered the slaughter and rape of millions of Chinese and dragged America into a bloody war.
>Implying Emperor Showa actually ordered the Rape of Nanking
>Also implying that the US (not "America", "America" is two continents, not a country) wouldn't have gotten involved in WW2 if it wasn't for Pearl Harbor
Among other things...
Actually, it's the United States of AMERICA so calling us "The States" OR "America" are both proper.
Yes, Mexico (United States of Mexico) and (the Commonwealth of) Canada share North America.
More "well learned" people arguing while waiting for their mothers to read their high school diplomas to them...
It could be he's trying to give them a false sence
of secerety.
Bush holds hands and kisses Saudi Princes and Kings like he is going steady. Nobody pays attention.
Obama gives a customary greeting (bowing) to a few leaders. End of the world.
Anyone criticizing Obama over this is either Retarded or Republican (same thing really).
Retardilcan
Actually, people did throw a shit fit at Bush's hand kissing. I guess you forgot about it as it happened awhile back or you are just ignoring it to support your own bias.
No, back then anyone critical of Bush was labeled anti-American and so was largely ignored by most media outlets. The difference now is the people out of power during that time(Republicans and American elitists) are very vocal and butthurt over EVERYTHING a this current President says or does because it goes against their particular belief on American diplomacy. This includes the mere attempt at a customary greeting in a particular culture.
Anti-Obamaites are acting like Obama got on his knees and swore fealty. This is both hyperbole and a gross double standard and should be noted as such.
One more thing, people comparing MacAruthr(SCAP)photo with Hirohito as proof of what an American is supposed to act to a foreign leader or figurehead knows absolutely nothing about the history of U.S. foreign policy and the U.S. agenda in shaping a Post-War Japan.
Now everyone who disagrees with Obama is labeled a racist.
IMHO, President Obama has DONE the right thing that deserved a praise for a good etiquette even though President Obama is at higher status.
Yeah! Mr Obana was just respecting Japanese customs! If I were in Japan as a visitor, I'd do the same thing!
But you are not a head-of-state. That matters in Asian culture.
Obama obviously doesn't understand the concept of the "gaijin smash."
All it is, is a sign of respect. Dear gawd, give the man a break.
he can go eat shit
you can eat meekrob.
I'm 12 and what is this?
aww, ain't that cute. His balls hasn't dropped yet.
The problem is america is based on the idea that all people are equell and to bow to another is like saying their better then you. Not only is the emperor claming to be the lord of all japan and its people (if only in name) but that he is disended from a god. no man (or woman) is the child of any god (thats my opinion). Obama is breaking a tradishion set down by all the priesidents before him. what about american tradishions?
HAHAHAHAHA
send this "american" to school :D
Showing proper respect is hardly something to sneer at. When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
Right! when you're visiting a foreign country, you have to abide be THEIR rules!
After all, they have a way of making you disappear when you are prancing around on their soil.
Molest boys?
Those who see nothing wrong either have an American Edukasion or else can see nothing wrong with our new fuhrer.
Bowing is a HUGE breach with over 200 years of American History.
But the a**hole in the White House has ALWAYS hated America. I'm surprised he hasn't apologized to the Nazis for defeating them in WWII.
Way to be a walking, breathing representation of the most retarded motherfuckers in the world. Choke yourself to death, please.
hahah we have a glen beck fanboy on sankaku I thought otakus were liberal by nature
1. Otaku is the plural of otaku.
2. Not everyone is so dumb as to blindly agree with everyone else around them.
you sir are an asshole, and should dia a horrible death. Satan is waiting for you!
I think it's a bigger wrong to show disrespect to people you've only just met.
This has got to be a fucking troll post. It's simply respectful, nothing more. Gimme a break.
Obama was just meeting Akihito eye to eye. Since Obama is over 6 feet tall and Akihito is like 5'2.
This is fucking ridiculous.
When in rome be roman, is what i was taught, so if you're in Japan, you follow japanese traditions. The same way you DO NOT walk into a mosque with your shoes.
I consider myself agnostic (don't believe religion, but not agaisnt it), yet when i go into a church for a wedding or something i do the sign of the cross as a way to show respect for the place i'm in.
It's called RESPECT - a notion most politics have long forgotten, and that's why our world is in the shitter, politically speaking.
agnostic is the belief that there might be a god out there. (has nothing to about being for or against a certain religion)
Aethist believe that there is no god
Making the sign of the cross while not believing is the same as blaspheme and is incredibly disrespectful.
Well to a Christian, not believing IS blasphemy.
Shitstorm over a simple bow? Geez, gimme a fuckin' break. There are more pressing issues out there and they chose to make a fuss out of a simple gesture?
Why are AmerKKKans so disgusted at their leader who is just showing respect for other world leaders?
What's the matter? Too degrading for mighty USA?
Also, like Akihito is responsible for World War II.
What the hell America.
What the hell.
Articles like this is why I read less sanakaku stuff, Anger many Americans? I mean this isn't even on fox news website yet and guaranteed they will blow this way out of proportion
You assume that the Americans are angry right now when their still asleep and wont be upset about this until the evening news, or until they watch the comedy show that is glen beck
Who cares whether you read this "sanakaku" stuff?
Uh...you?
If there were a thousand of you I might take notice, otherwise, no, I do not care.
Incidentally it was published by Fox on the 15th.
All I can say. NWO, fascist, de-population, bio-weapon, HAARP weather control weapon, Illumintai, 1984 owellian like laws and legislature, floride, mercury, infertility, totalitarian.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRNyte66LTQ
Japan sold out their financial system when they hit them with 6.8 earthquake.
JDP is selling out japan. Instead of invasion tehey just buy out people's soul.
Those people who soul is bought are selling the rest of us. Like if we are cattle to be sold by our traitors king.
That's a nice tinfoil hat you're wearing, Sir! **
oh bugger off... the illuminati is my home boys...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRNyte66LTQ
Japan sold out their financial system after they hit them with 6.8 earthquake.
(sarcasm) GOD FORBID THE PRESIDENT OF THE U.S. DECIDES TO BE POLITE!!!! (sarcasm)
People will find anything to bitch about, I swear.
Yes especially people from the FOX network...
Or any media for the matter if they think the story sells.
This just in! Americans angered at the concept of showing respect to other people and cultures! SHOCK AND DISMAY.
Seriously. I'm an American, I know the majority of us are a bunch of arrogant, ignorant, ill-mannered, uneducated cunts.
don't forget fat and lazy
man, you need new friends.
I know the europeans would have you believe otherwise, but we're not much better.
Well, that depends on what you mean by European - I mean, you can only find more heterogenuity in such a small area from Africa.
But for the most part we were the arrogant pricks of the yesteryear, and slightly (if only slightly) more humble these days.
I dislike Obama and all but even I think this is an over reaction. Yeah he shouldn't have bowed to the Saudi prince but bowing is simple Japanese culture and the emperor isn't just a head of state he is a religious figure.
And even in Saudi Arabia, he would be wise to show respect to the prince. Thing is, Obama needs to consult his advisors more about the customs of the places he visits.
Remember that time when JFK said "Ich bin ein Berliner" (I am a Donut) as opposed to "Ich bin Berliner"?
That's bullshit. At that time, those donuts were rarely called Berliner, that's a modern thing (and still not a Berlinian one). So unlike some pathological pun-writing, smartass journalists and ignorants (including yourself), all of Germany got the intended meaning.
I hear it's the problem with the accent, thus it sounded like he was saying "I am a jelly doughnut" to the general German audience.
Still no. Unlike English, German doesn't have twenty different pronunciations for a vowel that are chosen depending on surrounding letters, position in the word, age and blood sugar levels of speaker, average rainfall and sunspot activity, resulting in a gajillion different meanings. It's definitely not an accent thing. Compare:
Berlin word for donut: Pfannkuchen
pseudo-standard* for donut: Berliner
That must be hell of an accent to confuse these two ...
*) caused by bakery chain franchises that needed a standardised, generic name for one of their products. Big deal.
i don't get it, its just a bow, people bow all the time in japan. waiters and shit bow to me like there's no tomorrow, doesn't make them inferior to me. this case just looks bad cos the emperor is so damn short.
*Sigh* That's why the world hates the so called "true americans". "American should bow to no one! American should not act respectfully to no one!" Arrogance much?
Yeah. That's what I like about Obama: he's humble and down-to-earth. If you met him on the street, he'd probably be the first one to greet you.
And then steal your bike.
Nobody should ever bow to kings or tyrants. The USA was founded on this principle. Why should the people's chosen crook his knee to someone just because of his blood?
U.S. Foreign Policy according to Retardlicans and Obama haters:
The proper way to greet such people is hold their hands while walking and give them kisses. That is perfectly fine but never simply bow. For that That is just like kneeling and groveling.
And if they aren't "Kings or Tyrants" we give them back rubs!
(Shaking hands)
Emperor: Hey your shoelaces are untied!
Obama: (Looks down) Huh what?
Emperor: LOL you just bowed before me nub
Obama is now acting like a house slave...
Mes Massa!! Mo Tea Massa?
I think the point should be that Obama has been the first US diplomat in awhile that was young enough to manage a bow =P
So he bowed. ''Big deal''. So what if he bowed. It doesn't realy give me any difference.
Clean it up while you're there. It's a little dirty.
Is it too much ask to get a politican with a set of balls
After this I like Obama a bit now, I was neutral before.
And whats really stupid are the Americans going "wah wah wah Pearl Harbour" like it was 9/11 x 100 or something.
I think 2 nukes and civy casualties is a bit more serious that a little bruise to the American ego.
The Americans complaining should, as this is the internet, STFUGTFO
Listen, we can bitch about 3,000 casualties a few years ago and make jokes about the 100k civilian casualties we've inflicted in...well you know where.
At the table of international diplomacy, we're the guy in the back corner hunched over his shotgun psychotically muttering to himself. Sure he's a little crazy, and if you look at him the wrong way he'll knife you in the stomach, but if someone starts shit, everyone else will get behind him push the crazy bastard forward a couple of times and then bitch after he kills every living thing in front of him.
First thing that I've read on Sankaku that I agree with. Great article Artefact.
Fuck monarchies. Artifacts of history belong in museums, not occupying the entire center of Tokyo.
When in Rome, do what the Roman's do, as the saying goes.
I personally don't see anything wrong because he's the guest in someone else's house.
Not to mention that he's just following the basic courtesy - he's just bowing, not licking the Emperor's boots. Everybody does that in Japan all the time, so why not the President of the United States?
Obama really seems like a gentleman like that, respecting others traditions when he is visiting them.
If just the whole world could be like that.
I'm wondering if people forget he is from Oahu where the Japanese culture is probably one of the most influential on the Hawaiian islands.
He probably knew very well what he was doing when trying to show respect for Emperor Akihito. Whether it be outdated to bow like that, he is a guest in someone else's home and thus should show a bit more respect.
Obama probably thought a bow had to go below the person's eye level and anything above a 90 degree angle and Obama would still be able to look in the guys eyes since Obama is so much taller than him
"Bowgate" is one of the most ridiculous non-issues I've ever seen. Bowing is a way to show respect in Japan, and Obama is doing just that. I'm neutral on him, but I think he's being an honourable ambassador for the U.S. doing these things. Maybe the media would appreciate it more if he barfed on the Japanese prime minister's lap like GHW Bush did.
Hey asshole wear a flag pin...if you don't wear a flag pin you're socializing Hitler!
Obama is a smart man. He clearly does not give a crap what people think of him back home and would rather try and build/fix Americas relations with the rest of the world.
lol I remember that.
The teleprez's love for King/Emperor cock knows no limit. His mistake was to try again in the public's telephoto lenses.
This could explain those crusty flacks always seen under his lip and that odd walk after he leaves those countries...
Yea he should've played coy like GW.
The Saudi King never got past first base with that man...he raised the price in oil just to hear bush's voice.
The Saudi King was embarassed that the press had video of his makeout session with george.
a) didnt know there was still an emperor of japan. b) its called public relations. i actually like to see he isnt like all the other presidents that feel they are over everybody else.... americans should learn of this. not critizise it... to bad that hes not going to be re-elected. since americans are so stupid he isnt goingt ot be re-elected.
I get the bow towards the Japanes emporer, but the one with the saudis? Not good, hm...
Agreed
"for 200 years the US’s official diplomatic position has been that monarchs should humoured with nothing more than a handshake, so this gesture actually marks a significant change in policy, unwelcome in the eyes of many."
Many are stupid.
Everyone bows to everyone in Japan.
does republican now = mean spirited namecaller? How about the coalition of the rich and the stupid?
Come on, have you ever heard of "when in Rome"?
The coalition of the rich and the stupid is the founding principle of human society.
Every society has it's rich people invoke patriotism, national pride, racial pride, and religious pride to get enough stupid people to his side. Use their money to hire strong stupid people who don't believe what they say but it doesn't matter because they can be easily bribed, and use your marauding hoarde of morons to drown out the intelligent people who are trying to call you out on your inneffectiveness and corruption...or just have them drown the intellectuals.
That's the founding principle of every nation or kingdom that has ever existed on the face of the earth.
I'd be ashamed by now if I voted for Obama.
But alas, I voted for McCain, so I am not responsible for this America-apologizing monster and his equally abominable wife.
No you're clearly superior for voting for Launchpad McQuack and the retarded librarian.
The extent of your stupidity cannot be put into words.
Ah Americans, ignorant of the world since its conception.
You mean to tell me there are other cultures!? NO WAY!!!
I see no problem with him bowing to the Japanese emperor what with him having no real power and all, but I sure as hell would never bow to the bastard king of Saudi Arabia, now why would he do that?
Remember folks this is TEH EMPRAH of MANKIND... Son of the Sun-god and whatnot. A living Deity!
We should bow deeply and rspct his imperial majesty Teh EMPRAH!
Obama got it rigth this time... But failed in Arabia when he bowed to this towelheaded impostor.
-TEH EMPRAH PROTECTS.
Americans shouldn't be outrage he's just bowing and after all it's a Japanese culture to greet each other even though the Emperor didn't bow as well but still he's treating other nation leaders as equal, not all but still.
more like the twit who is a major twat who wrote this flippant piece of schiess....
btw.. Artefacts should be in the museum not fucking running a website...
I think it's okay, he's a king/emperor/not a figure chosen by the people, so he isn't on his level, in Japan, his homologue is the PM after all. He should just remember that kings will stay waaaaaay longer than him on their charge. It's just the minimum respect for a member of the ROYALTY
teh EMPRAH is not Royalty he is a GOD!
This is almost as ridiculous as that time where there was a controversy over which mustard Obama used...
I don't think he was bowing... I think he saw fried chicken on the floor.
Pfft. Obama-chan was just looking at his shoes. You have to be presentable, right?
Forward, Down, Down-Forward + Punch!!! OBAMA!!! Forward, Down, Down-Forward + Punch!!!
Artefact, I would like to engage in debate with you on the subject. But first, my I ask, what's your gripe about monarchies?
I blame it on chronic back pain.
Artefact, I would like to engage in a debate with you on this. But first, may I ask, what is your gripe about monarchies.
Its a bow of Respect! Fuck this shitty Country.
If its a bow of respect, then why wasn't it returned by the Emperor?
Obama and his a fucking idiot.
A GOD who doesn't even bow to other gods doesn't bow to some lowly human president
I thought this whole Obama bowing to people was old news.
The puny human president bows to gods!
BLOOD FOR THE BLOOD GOD! MORE HEADS FOR THE THRONE OF SKULLS! ALL HAIL KHORNE!
Why is Obama soft on the xenos scum? Long live the imperium!
It's all part of his plan, you make peace and when they least expect it... Attack! All hail Britannian! I mean USA.
He was trying to get them to forgive America's 724 billion dollar debt to Japan, Behind the scenes today he was bending the other direction for China's Hu Jintao.
that's the shiznit bro
Wow. Who would've thought you Artefact of all people would condemn Obama for bowing of all things. Although, I will admit with your opinions of monarchies and their evil ways, I highly disagree with what really seem like a gaijin's way of trying to show proper respect in Japan. Such a conservative comment coming from someone who, through the many articles displayed here, has such liberal views is quite shocking and utterly disgusting. The bowing of a monarch does not imply deference simply a respect, nothing less. If you remember correctly Bush bowed, hugged, and often kissed the King of Saudi Arabia many times over, obviously showing a deference not displayed by Obama.
I would understand if he had performed Dogeza but seriously. In my opinion the low bow of his is not low at all but simply how tall the man is if you didn't know;Obama is quite tall. Regardless of that, a bow to a FAILED monarch does not imply anything, after all, their own people appreciate and respect said monarchs and anything that insults them immediately is taken with grave consequence by their people.
America may have been founded with the principles of not taking well to monarchs, of which I agree, but in a modern globalized world where respect is seen as a great currency, showing a bit of respect to any leader, monarch or non-monarch, is part and parcel of playing the political game. Obama is not taking his orders directly from any monarchy and until that day, I can be at ease at any bowing he may have done.
But why would you care at what I just said right Artefact? Go watch Glenn Beck and Bill O'Reilly so you may satisfy your paranoia. It seems you're taking your moral lessons from TV comedians and corporate profiteers...
"Quite shocking and utterly disgusting."
My inclination to talk to you ended there. And I don't even know who Glenn Beck and Bill O'Reilly are so you might want to step out of your cosy little world of US partisan politics.
Ca