Drinking tea from a psychological perspective can affect the way one views themselves and how one is viewed in society. It can also be applied to how common misconceptions can dramatically increase the usage of tea.
Tea drinking became an indicator of one’s social status in colonial times. It is arguable that many people developed the belief that if they were seen drinking tea, they were of a worthy status. It is also arguable that the perception of the wealthy drinking tea fosters a larger gap between social classes. With more and more people drinking tea and holding the belief that they are of a higher status than the people who don’t drink tea, they are creating the possibility for more social prejudices.
“…the wonderful Chinese plant that seemed to cure so many different diseases,” (pg. 66)
The belief that tea could cure so many diseases was a placebo. The fact that the colonist believed the tea was making them better was all in their head. Tea is not a magical medicine. It was not responsible for curing their many diseases.
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