When it comes to being Chinese, what counts?

Blogging for China is holding a lively debate on the subject, spawned by a translated MITBBS post in which the writer lists three definitions of the classification: the official (you’re your passport says), the ethnic (what your mother says) and the cultural (what your China addiction — to more than just cheap DVDs and instant noodles — says). Good news for Red Laowai
and those of us who can never hope to be mistaken for native-born on the metro, though commenters' questions about ethnic minorities within China bring up an interesting consideration. As some of our readers deal with ever-more-complicated visa situations, it’s interesting to wonder when, if ever, foreigners begin to “count.” We’re not sure —thoughts?

Photo from Rosie Davies