People are so sensitive these days. Everyone wants to be so progressive and politically correct. That’s made jokes about other cultures and stereotypes completely off limits. However, many stereotypes and clichés are rooted in truth and it’s OK to laugh at them.

This French guy rode passed me with a baguette sticking out of his bag. Japan is riddled with Harajuku girls. Iceland really does treasure trolls and their homes. Clichés exist everywhere and stereotypes often hold true. Heck, we’re often known as “Fat Americans” and, well, we’re pretty plump. I’ve seen it firsthand.

I’m not saying that mean-spirited jokes are appropriate. To the contrary, racist and hurtful comments are just plain wrong. But playful joking and taking the piss out of each other on a global level is really no different than teasing our friends. So, celebrate clichés, embrace stereotypes and laugh with each other rather than at each other.