Blog #2: Baljeet's Evolution

    The "smart Asian" stereotype has perpetuated false perceptions of Asian people in American society and contributed to a cultural expectation regarding the unrealistic, superior mental capabilities of these individuals. As per my previous blog post, the most notable demonstration of this is that of an Indian character in Disney's "Phineas and Ferb," Baljeet. Baljeet, a very smart and innovative individual is constantly bullied by Buford, a fellow member of Phineas and Ferb's friend group. This is mainly due to Baljeet's submissive demeanor and miniature stature in addition to his "nerd-like" personality. 

    In an attempt to alter the negative connotations associated with the "smart Asian" stereotype, Baljeet's priorities could be shifted, having the character focus less intensely on school and begin to expand his horizons to other, more active activities. These could include things like weight lifting or team and individual sports. Through participating in these, Baljeet could be portrayed to become more of an aggressive competitor in addition to gaining muscle, thus developing the nerve and strength to stand up to his bully. By depicting Baljeet as someone who is very intelligent and excels academically, yet who also is active and strong, the negative effects of the "smart Asian" stereotype can be diminished. This is because viewers would recognize and be impressed by the duality of his character to be both smart and strong, two often-considered contrasting qualities. 

    Another way the negative connotations of the "smart Asian" stereotype could be diminished is through altering Baljeet's position within Phineas and Ferb's friend group. As a member of the team, Baljeet is typically the analytical and numerical brains of each project, often figuring out which problems will arise with the team's creations and thinking up solutions to solve these problems, rather than aiding in the physical building process. In this way, Baljeet's image as a very smart, nerdy character with little strength is accentuated. In an attempt to alter this negative characterization, Baljeet's position as the "smart" one in the group could be lessoned via a development of another group member's desire to tackle the numerical calculations of each project and Baljeet's subsequent adoption of a more physical building focus. This would demonstrate to viewers that not only is Baljeet very intellectual, but he is also involved in the building process for the group's projects, providing him with an air of machismo, thus lessoning his perceived "nerdiness" and diminishing the applicability of the "smart Asian" stereotype. 

    Through a few simple alterations to Baljeet's hobbies and group interactions, the negative connotations of the "smart Asian" stereotype can be diminished, thus aiding in easing societal pressure placed upon Asian-Americans as a result.