The problem is that without even focusing, this stuff can be so "in-your-face".
I agree with this. I teach some of our AU society which we choose to call the youth. Some are impeccable.....in both behaviour and knowledge (including ability to learn). It really does tend to discard the stereotypical classifications that many (yes, even me) can be prone to rely upon at times in our criticisms. Some however, choose to degrade themselves to the level of bogan, with an almost air of self satisfaction. Who am I to castigate them? I also teach in the highlands of PNG where the socio-economic scene is a whole lot different. In PNG, I see a huge difference. I see people who are by circumstance, almost savage by nature.........yet, can be incredible, by pure intellect.
Regardless of the ability of the said person, it matters not whether a person is black or white (sorry to the politically correct set, but that is the base form PNG people use to describe PNG nationals from expats....and I find it very acceptable and even a breath of fresh air), what matters is a persons desire to exceed. In Oz, that happens....but not so much as in PNG.
Back to the topic.......being "in your face" is OK in small doses, but occasionally things are in your face, even when you try so hard to ignore! I have had in class, some men who are trying so hard (and in many cases exceeding exceptionally well) to excell in academia, but their BO would fell a bull elephant from 50 yards! How did I deal with that? I started something which is very much removed from trade theory.....I started to teach social acceptability. I bought (from my own pocket) anti-perspirant deodorants. Not very much related to their studies, but I asked them if they would like to learn about "western culture" and every single one of them was keen. Now I have a class of acedemically successful young gentleman, but also one that I can stand to be in the same room with without dry reaching!
My next endevour is to attempt to coerce them into not killing their neighbour with whom they disagee. That will be far harder.