On 3 Dec 2008 at 21:49, William Scott wrote: > Beyond your satire, please Mr. Black, being a member of that group as > you are, why are so many things not allowed for Quebecers? The Netflix > prize, for example is not available to residents of Quebec. Why is > that?
Well, for the Netflix prize, I'm relieved to see we're not alone in our exclusion. The contest is also not available to residents of Cuba, Iran, Syria, North Korea, Myanmar and Sudan. Bummer. I suspect that the reason Quebec is excluded is different from the reason why this club of distinguished countries need not apply. Or could it be because we're all dictatorships? Back to your general question. Quick answer: beats me. But I'm willing to speculate. First, though, I have to demur concerning your premise. Most things are allowed for Quebecers, and I'm not aware of any significant deprivation relative to our neighbours. In fact, we're allowed some things scarce elsewhere, particularly in that great country to the south of us. For example, here in Quebec we have an abundance of such things as cold fronts, cheap electricity, and restaurant meals which are actually edible. We also are allowed to eat poutine. But one reason for the quirky few restrictions we do have may lie in the tendency of Quebec governments to be more protective of its citizens than elsewhere, or protective of its own revenue stream. This may account for its interest in regulating our access to contests and lotteries elsewhere (but, of course, you betcha you're welcome to come gamble up here). Another reason is that all Quebec governments feel it their duty to protect French language and culture against the onslaught of English language and American culture. Consequently, items such as computer games, toys, and films/videos may not be available here if they are not simultaneously marketed in a French version, or if they lack French labeling or instructions. Most marketers want to sell to Quebecers, so they comply, and we get to choose between two language versions when we buy. Occasionally, we're denied something because the company refuses. It's not a big deal to put up with, especially when compensated for by being permitted great cuisine. Stephen ----------------------------------------------------------------- Stephen L. Black, Ph.D. Professor of Psychology, Emeritus Bishop's University e-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] 2600 College St. Sherbrooke QC J1M 1Z7 Canada Subscribe to discussion list (TIPS) for the teaching of psychology at http://flightline.highline.edu/sfrantz/tips/ ----------------------------------------------------------------------- --- To make changes to your subscription contact: Bill Southerly ([EMAIL PROTECTED])
