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Originally Posted by Ronin4hire
Well first of all the urban dictionary is not really a dictionary.
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Sure it is. A culture defines the words it uses. Just because it isn't in print doesn't make it invalid. Urban Dictionary is very much a cultural vocabulary resource.
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Furthermore what constitutes an unhealthy obsession?
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I think that being on JF for as long as you have been, you'd be able to discern that for yourself.
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For some people it could be simply an interest in Japan or an appreciation of Japanese culture or an aspect of it.
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No, those aren't unhealthy obsessions. Those are qualities of someone genuinely interested and respectful of the culture. Those with unhealthy obsessions are the ones who are labelled as weaboos.
Personally, I think talking about the word "wapanese" is a moot point. First off, I have hardly ever even heard it. "Weaboo" is the most popularly used.
Second, it comes from the same etymological idea as "wigger", but the two are certainly not the same.
Third, none of these words have anything whatsoever to do with cultural superiority or inferiority, they merely point out that someone is trying to be something they aren't with an unrealistic image of a culture they've idealized beyond recognition.
"wapanese" has a racial connotation. "Weaboo" does not.