…I’m not a crab
By jeanneyvonne
@jeanneyvonne (5501)
Philippines
June 28, 2012 10:57pm CST
I am referring to the Filipino quality called crab mentality. Literally, it means utak talangka. For foreigners who wish to join this discussion, crab mentality is a mentality where a person is ‘bringing down’ or insulting another person for the benefit of one’s self.
Why did I bring up crab mentality?
I had a free time and decided to join some discussion on other site’s forums regarding the controversial issues in our country. I often try not to be partisan because technically, I will get nothing from it. Also, I have not yet the mastered the art of trying to control a troll or try to stop someone who want to start a flame war. Also, I don’t insult people even when I am communicating online.
As impartial as I could get, I expressed my opinion on something political which apparent made someone angry. To make the long story short, the user (I cannot guess if it was a she or a he) said that I had crab mentality and I was one of those people who want to bring down other people. Frankly, I was stunned because all I did was offer an opinion. An opinion with did not exactly agree with the other party’s opinion. Besides, how could an individual like me can possibly throw a an entity like the government?
Many times, I try to respect other people’s opinion because freedom of expression is a basic right afforded to anyone. But I don’t think being called a ‘crab’ or a downright insult is even appealable to that right. The guy might be entitled to his opinion but I am afraid that he isn’t using it wisely.
In end, everybody has their own opinion and they have every right to be heard. But please, don’t assume too much or insult people who are just practicing their right to the same freedom being exercised.
Sorry, had to get that thing off my chest.
3 people like this
4 responses
@laydee (12798)
• Philippines
29 Jun 12
The problem with these types of sites is the fact that you cannot really hear what the other person has to say. I mean, you read through their posts, but you never know their 'tone' when saying those words.
Perhaps the person was in a bad disposition that day and 'felt' like you were accusing or something along that line. I too have come across these sorts of things, miscommunication is frequent in these types of sites and we can't help but be furious or frustrated at someone's assumption of us.
I think it was not good for the person to accuse you, neither was it accurate - unless he was assuming you were attacking him or something.
Anyhow, I guess it's best if sometimes we just let it go, however, if the person still sticks to the issue and accuses you, I would probably take out my claws too! hehehehe..
Good thing that you have controlled yourself but perhaps you would have allowed or make the person explain what 'crab mentality' was for him/her and how did the conversation go like that. Perhaps he/she is one of those people who just go shouting something that they don't really know anything about.
Have a great MyLot experience ahead!
1 person likes this
@jeanneyvonne (5501)
• Philippines
1 Jul 12
The only response that I get form that person was o the lines that I was exhibiting crab mentality and I was jealous of this and that. No exp0alanations. Actually, I wasn’t and I just let that person rant off because I think that responding again to that person will only escalate the problem and will ignore the current issue or topic being discussed. I understand that miscommunication does happen in online and offline conversation. I just want some respect and restraint. I don’t know how much patience I have to give and why I am always have to be the one to give it. Sometimes people should also know their limits and the limits of freedom entitled to them.
@mrfdg1972 (3237)
• Philippines
29 Jun 12
just as you spoke your words the other party had spoken too, that is the benefit of online free debate, then you have your opportunity to retaliate but anyhow, dont get personalize or something you dont have to feel bad when someone tell hurting words its what they feel, just retaliate and throw your kindest words and hope they get enlighten. Good Day
@jeanneyvonne (5501)
• Philippines
1 Jul 12
Well, I did feel bad because I was hoping that we could discuss things rationally. I guess I thought the reverse and got the unexpected. I am willing to listen and discuss with people (online or offline) as long they don’t call names or do with insults. I man, they can have the freedom of expression they want but a little respect is not too much to ask. I do hope they will be enlightened in the long run.
@mrfdg1972 (3237)
• Philippines
8 Jul 12
I say you have won in the discussion, you are i am sure a better person than them, i dont know if what happened is called 
trash talking its a tactic to insult the other side/ opposing side to render them uneasiness and not be able to respond well.
trash talking its a tactic to insult the other side/ opposing side to render them uneasiness and not be able to respond well.
@SIMPLYD (90722)
• Philippines
29 Jun 12
Don't let those type of people bother you at all my friend. 
Skip the discussion, if you already are not enjoying anymore or is being hurt already. You come to a discussion to express yourself , so don't let anyone block you from it.
Skip the discussion, if you already are not enjoying anymore or is being hurt already. You come to a discussion to express yourself , so don't let anyone block you from it. 
@ECH107 (108)
• Austria
29 Jun 12
It is used in a negative connotation as well here in the United States. It describes somebody in a foul mood, not easy to get along with. some people are crabby all the time as a personality trait and others just have days with they feel crabby, maybe from not eating or sleeping well.
@jeanneyvonne (5501)
• Philippines
1 Jul 12
I did not know that there is an American equivalent. Thank you for enlightening me. I guess both qualities are quite similar in one way or another Although the America usage is much more personal, I guess.
