Small mindedness.

There is a Chinese term which is missing in English -- Xiao Ren (Literally mean Small Human). The real meaning is complex, covering narrow-mindedness, selfish, cunning, harmful, scheming, etc. 'Small' points to the mental quality of seeing the world as centered around yourself. The opposite Da Ren (Big Human), points to the mental quality of seeing the inter-dependencies of oneself within the society. A Da Ren will do what it takes for benefits of everyone.

Many Singaporeans, and I assume mostly Chinese, are keen learners. If they are as keen in teaching, I think we would be great. Sadly, I met many people socially and professionally, who are very keen in knowing what I am doing and how I do it. But I do not see much sharing of what they worked on. Also, publications are usually very poor. There is a lack of energy in initiating the flow of information. There is a strong Small Human mentality here. "If I teach people what I know, they can use the knowledge to my disadvantage." "If I can learn what people are doing, I can also do great things myself."

I do not mean a Big Human don't learn, but they would not overlook teaching as well. Learning and teaching at the same time is facilitating information flow. Learning but not teaching is like a junk collector taking up 'useful' stuffs and keep them to himself. Mostly useless to him anyways.