No he’s not. This does not look like a travel vlog. It looks like a political interview.
Taiwan, China, and the Fight for Democracy
00:00 Intro 2:18 Sona’s background 4:05 How China controls the internet 8:34 Living in Taiwan 14:15 Potential Chinese blockade of Taiwan 22:20 Visas to stay in Taiwan 24:00 Being Black in Taiwan / cultural differences 28:33 What Americans should know about Taiwan 35:13 Future of Taiwan 40:12 Taiwanese cultural behaviors 49:08 America’s current state 1:00:50 Returning to America? 1:06:40 Where to find Sona
Maybe ONE thing a traveller might find useful. Even more importantly, is the interview even intended for travellers?
Are his fans coming to these videos because decolonisation is the name of a tourist trap in Niagara Falls?
Are you seriously trying to tell me that a political interview containing a person that once lived in Taiwan and had some token things to say about it there in the context of Taiwan’s political situation, of which, was the content of the VAST MAJORITY of the video is somehow intended for an audience primarily made up of TRAVELLERS?
I’m part of the Italian diaspora. Like you, I grew up in North America as a third culture kid and barely lived in the old country. But these kinds of posts are cringe. It’s not necessary to squeal with glee every time someone briefly mentions Taiwan, Italy, Canada in a positive light. It’s Taiwan, it’s Italy, it’s Canada, best countries in the world. I know this so I don’t have to constantly remind people. You know who has to constantly remind people about shit that ain’t true anyways? CHINA!
I hadn’t heard of him either. Here is what AI found out for me
Peter Boghossian is an American philosopher and former assistant professor at Portland State University who has gained prominence for his work in philosophy, critical thinking, and cultural commentary. Born in Boston in 1966, he taught at Portland State for ten years before resigning in 2021 due to what he viewed as a culture of illiberalism1
His current relevance to Taiwan residents stems from his recent active engagement with Taiwan’s sociopolitical issues:
He has conducted significant discussions about Taiwan’s defense strategies against China, including interviews with military defense experts and political figures5, 6
He is actively involved in discussions about Taiwan’s cultural identity, particularly regarding the preservation of Taiwanese language and culture against Mandarin dominance. His recent work has highlighted concerns about linguistic colonization and its impact on Taiwanese identity2
His activism and commentary on China-Taiwan relations have resulted in him being barred from entering China and Hong Kong3, 6
Boghossian’s academic background includes degrees from Marquette University, Fordham University, and Portland State University1. He is known for his books “A Manual for Creating Atheists” and “How to Have Impossible Conversations: A Very Practical Guide,” as well as his involvement in the controversial grievance studies affair1
Through his podcast and writings, he regularly addresses issues crucial to Taiwan’s future, including military defense, cultural preservation, and the complex relationship with China. His work particularly resonates with Taiwanese audiences concerned about maintaining their distinct cultural identity and national security2, 5
… and about why a foreign resident in Taiwan might be interested in his views:
There is no compelling reason why foreign residents of Taiwan should give Boghossian’s opinions on Taiwan any special weight or consideration above other commentators. While he has engaged with Taiwan-related topics, he does not possess unique expertise, language skills, or deep historical understanding of Taiwan that would make his perspective particularly valuable compared to:
Actual Taiwan scholars and experts who have spent decades studying the region
Local academics and policy experts who understand the nuances of Taiwan’s society
Long-term foreign residents who have direct experience living in and understanding Taiwan’s culture and society
Journalists and researchers who specialize in cross-strait relations
His commentary appears to be part of a broader pattern of Western public intellectuals opining on Taiwan issues without necessarily having deep regional expertise or linguistic/cultural competency. For foreign residents of Taiwan seeking to better understand their adopted home, there are many more authoritative and knowledgeable sources available, particularly those who can engage with primary sources in Chinese and Taiwanese languages and who have substantial on-the-ground experience in Taiwan.
In Taipei people tend to carry their trash with them?
That would be cool if true.
What I’ve found is that in parks and public areas without a wastebasket people leave their garbage because they probably know it will be cleaned up. I don’t blame them but it must teach bad habits.
Just the other day someone put their instant noodle garbage under my partners bicycle when there was a familymart across the street. At least it wasn’t thrown into the bike basket.