wearing other family tartan rather than your own

[Jock Scot]

I say this with the greatest of respect to all, but I have some Americans in mind here.

If you live outwith the UK in general and Scotland in particular then you have every right to think the way that you do when it is to do with your own country's affairs. You have the Declaration of Independence and your ancestors may well have fought to have the Aristocracy removed and the "all men are created equal" train of thought was created and there is much to commend that way of thinking. In passing I note that they do have military ranks and Presidents etc and of course in a democracy those positions are given on some sort of ability and merit. Nevertheless there is a "pecking order".

All of the above is fine as far as I am concerned as long as those from other nations with that point of view don't try to impose their views on others from other countries.That they have no right so to do. Rubbishing traditions, conventions, and courtesies of other nations can cause at the very least, a sharp intake of breath! In truth most of us from anywhere in the world, on the whole, are too busy getting on with day to day life to bump into this situation.

However in this case we are talking about two cultures, the UK one and in this case mainly the USA because we are involved in discussing a mutual interest------the kilt, part of the Scots culture to be precise. For my part whilst I think I understand ( I try to at least) other points of view from outwith the UK's borders I do feel that on occasion this is not reciprocated by some. I always find that a shame and sometimes I find that insulting and arrogant.

Some people really ought to try to be a little more thoughtful, courteous and respectful when discussing other nation's cultures. That goes for me and that goes for everyone else in this world.