[serpico]

It depends. I'm British, and self deprecatory humour is a distinct part of British humour. When used well it shows that you dont take yourself seriously and actually conveys value - 'this guys sense of himself is strong enough to be able to laugh at himself.' However, a lot depends on the other person's ability to 'read' that. I therefore dial it down if i'm with continentals, or yanks, as generally they don't get it.