Are cultural stereotypes ever accurate? In this interview, the conversation centres on how British people are perceived—particularly the stereotype of being polite. According to our interviewee, that image doesn’t match the reality he sees day-to-day. In his view, the culture—especially in parts of London—is far rowdier, more outspoken, and less reserved than many might assume. It got us thinking about how national character gets constructed in the first place. Where do stereotypes come from—and