What are some misconceptions that Americans may have about China? originally appeared on Quora, the place to gain and share knowledge, empowering people to learn from others and better understand the world. You can follow Quora on Twitter, Facebook, and Google Plus.

There are a couple of ideas that come to my mind:

1. The Chinese government vs the Chinese people

I’d like my fellow Americans to understand that the Chinese government isn’t always representative of the Chinese people. Just because the Chinese people aren’t actively trying to change the system doesn’t mean they agree with everything the system does. It’s like how some Americans feel about Trump. Chinese people know very well they don’t live in a democracy. Some yearn for that kind of system, but some don’t.

Chinese people are not all the same. Most, though, will subscribe to a fairly practical set of principles for living their lives: keep your nose clean, get as much education as you can, make a good living and, whenever possible, keep your family together. Plus, eat good food and drink good beer.

2. China is completely unliveable

Yes, the pollution can be bad. And Facebook is blocked. But Chinese cities can be very beautiful and pleasant to live in. It’s also very safe, particularly for women.

3. All Chinese people eat dog

No, no and no.

OK, it’s true that some people do eat dog. In fact, confessing my childhood trauma was the subject of my most widely read and commented on story to date. There is a minority of people who eat dog. But these attitudes are changing quickly. And there are growing groups of animal rights activists who audaciously save dogs intended for food.

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