Summary Of The Asian Advantage By Kristof

In “The Asian Advantage”, Nickolas Kristof analyzes the factors of Asians are successful in the

America and points out that even though Asians have greater opportunities and accomplishments

compared to Whites, does not stand for discrimination is solved. Indeed, discrimination is still a problem,

but I think there are details she is missing.

Kristof gives her opinion that “Teachers had higher expectations for the special students and made

them feel capable – and so that’s what they became.”(3). I do not think higher expectations from teachers

are necessarily the cause to make students feel capable and have a positive impact. Firstly, the factors

makes oneself feel capable can be the encouragement from parents and peers, overcome
Fu 2

Kristof noted that the reasons for successful Asian-Americans are hard work, strong families and

passion for education(4). She doesn’t acknowledge that financial can be a factor. Indeed, there are many

chances people can approach education, such as online courses, but I think if you have a stronger

financial support, you are getting more resources than others, such as getting tutoring, better learning

equipment, learning environment, better and easier connection to people or network that may aid to

your success, or maybe you are more willing to work harder because you don’t want to disappoint your

family and your results can represent a family, thus you are more likely to achieve your goals. There are

many factors that can influence whether Asian-Americans are successful.

Kristof has this view of what is success, such as higher education, doctors, research scientists