Stereotypes of Lebanese people

Stereotypes of Lebanese people are generalizations and assumptions of the typical characteristics, beliefs, and attitudes of the Lebanese people. Because of the large Lebanese diaspora, which vastly outnumbers the population of Lebanon itself, stereotypes can vary from country to country. There are many parallels between stereotypes of Lebanese and of Arabs in general.
Positive stereotypes
Beauty
Lebanese people, Lebanese women in particular, are often depicted as exceptionally beautiful in both Western and Arab media. Lebanon has a large plastic surgery industry, which attracts patients from all around the world. The stereotype can be pejorative, as many assume Lebanese women frequently make use of cosmetic surgery to achieve the high standards for beauty. Lebanese men are often described as well-dressed and fashionable, with an affection for cars and nightlife. which is perhaps best personified by the hustle and bustle of Beirut itself. In both Lebanon and the diaspora, the Lebanese are often employed in the industries of sales, retail and wholesale trade, business, and real estate, all of which focus on the ability to make deals quickly and efficiently.
Liberalism and conservatism
In the Arab world, Lebanon is generally seen as a very liberal country that is accepting of different lifestyles. The country is a center of media and culture in the Middle East, and some of the region's foremost LGBT-activist organizations reside in Beirut. The city is well-known for its nightlife and so Lebanese are people often perceived as being outgoing and attracted to the allure of bars, clubs, and parties.
In the Western world, Lebanon is often grouped with other Arab countries, which are typically viewed as heavily conservative, oppressive of the rights of women, religious, and politically backwards.
Negative stereotypes
Terrorism
Like many stereotypes of Arabs, the Lebanese often fall victim to an assumption of their predisposition for terrorism and violence. In reality, Lebanon has a lower-than-average homicide rate that is lower than the United States. The stereotypes often tie into assumptions about Lebanon itself, which is often depicted as war-torn although the Lebanese Civil War ended in 1990. The United States regards some Lebanese political parties and movements, such as Hezbollah, as terrorist organizations.
Racism
Because of their relatively-fair skin compared to other Arab peoples, many Lebanese are stereotyped as being racist towards immigrants and even other Lebanese people with dark skin. Immigrants from Sub-Saharan Africa, and South, and Southeast Asia are often admitted to the country as domestic workers, which leads to a perception in Lebanese society of individuals with dark skin as servants. Racism is a systemic problem in Lebanon.

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