Google Uncovers Dark Secrets
Apparently, the Japanese think Google is racist simply because they leave associations between old world maps (like seriously, feudal ages old) and actual current geography and the assumptions in between, up to the user.
Apparently, the word eta means "mass of filth" and it lies directly over a part of Tokyo, clicking on it, would show you that part of the city as it is today.
The Japanese say, that without any context being put to this, that Google is Racist, for letting it's own Racist users decide what's Racist and isn't.

Huh.
Anyone remember the relatively small "niga" advertisement fiasco?
Japanese culture itself is pretty racist against any gaikokujin, so whatevah whatevah.

I think I understand their point.
You check maps and suddenly you see that you are a filth because you live in some area. without explanation or anything.
Pardon my language for this is only an illustration to which we can more relate (no disrespect to anyone)
You have a map of NYC on google. You check 'map from 1830' only to see that your community to be called "Niggerdump"
since common folks don't know history without any extra info it would be very offensive wouldn't it?
Discrimination, racism, sexism is very common in Japan (much more than in other western societies but at the same time not as radical). This subject must be treated with great caution.

Of course we also have this fine thread topic with "engrish" which I find to be offensive... but hey, perhaps I'm just being oversensitive.
I can understand the concern those that are complaining might have, but if it's a historical document, there is a limit to what Google can do about that. What sort of change would they want? It does feel a bit like the Japanese are trying to cover up part of their past.

The Engrish was in place as a commentary like the Japanese are the pot saying the kettle is black.
while they're both actually black.

Just because I love nitpicking, I feel the need to point out that it's actually the Chinese who typically substitute L for R. The Japanese do it the other way around, they substitute R for L. (As in "engrish")

I've taken multiple Japanese courses, and even been to Japan, it goes both ways.
Regardless, your example follows my title name as in the Japanese are being quoted as saying it.

Ah, the nuances of language often get mistaken over the internet. Thanks for the explanation :)

I've been to Japan as well, and I've only heard R. I haven't taken any courses though, so I bow to your superior knowledge. Anyway, thanks for the link. Japanese culture can be "interesting" to say the least...

I can see how some might find it offensive, after reading the news post its pretty bad what those people go through and I can sympathise with it. Looks to me that google wanted to do better and ended up doing...yeah as usual. :/
On the other hand this might be fascinating from a purely academical standpoint. I might actually re-download google earth now just to see the historical maps (I didn't even know they have such an offering).
Oh and Weclock, that thread title is pretty distasteful. Come on man, you're classier than that. :/

I wanted to go with the regular "WACIST!" that is the sound of that kid saying "THAT'S RACIST!" from that youtube video or whatever, but then I realised the power of using the "L" and how it's context fits perfectly with the subject matter.

I cant decide whether to laugh or call you a douchebag, so...carry on.

You have obviously never been on the IRC channel. :D

Obviously. Never cared much for IRC. Part due to me usually being on a different time line from anyone else on the channel (it being empty when I'm in). Part due to the fact that I get enough chat in the games I play with all the racism and bigotry I can handle, so yeah, no thanks. :/

Actually the GOG irc pretty much only slows down on weekends, when everybody is out enjoying their life.
Actually, on the forums here, I usually am fairly classy. IRC and Wegame forums I let loose. Mostly because those two places can't result in me losing access to this classy community here at GOG, where I can find help with games and all sorts of user support.