This video instils a sense of culture shock within the viewer, which is quite interesting. Phrases and gestures that are completely normal to a certain society can be impolite or extremely offensive to another. It is important to think about another culture’s norms when being around a majority of people with that culture in order to be polite and not skew so far from the norms. In addition, it is important to be knowledgeable about these norms before visiting with those of another culture for the same reasons. In a worst case scenario, you may break a more without even realizing it, which would be the ultimate faux pas. It is also important to understand and follow the norms for your own safety when traveling. For example, in the video, beckoning with your finger to someone in the Philippines can land you in jail if the offense were serious enough, changing your life and possibly causing harm to you due to the other inmates. Having an understanding of social norms in other cultures should not be an optional concept. Not only would a lack of this knowledge be insensitive to a different culture but an offence caused by ignorance of culture could be life-threatening. It is also important to realize when learning about other cultural norms that no one culture is better or ‘more right’ than another. It is all a matter of perspective and how society has shaped you. Your ‘right’ may be somebody else’s ‘punishable by death.’ In the grand scheme of things, values become murky, and people, especially those with any basic understanding of sociology, need to know that sensitivity and an understanding of other cultures is the key to peaceful interactions. Rationally, being able to use the sociological imagination and remove ourselves from the situation will give us the ability to adapt to and understand other cultures. aardvark123
I completely agree that, "having an understanding of social norms in other cultures should not be an optional concept," in the case that one is going to experience that culture. There are many different cultures all over the world. To be aware of all of them would be impossible. However, being aware of what is and isn't respectful in cultures that you will come in contact with is vital. We should want to respect other cultures as much as we want people to respect our own culture.There really is nothing that makes our culture better than any other, but there are lots of things that make it different. -M&M
Aardvark123, I completely agree with you when you stated that we should be knowledgeable about the norms of a different country prior to visiting. It would be a complete nightmare if your whole entire life was ruined by being thrown in another country’s jail for performing a simple gesture that was very offensive in that country. When traveling, one needs to be careful and socially aware of the differences in cultures. We need to prepare for experiencing culture shock. I also agree when you state that we should not be stuck in the thought of believing that one culture is better or ‘more right’ than another. I think it is important to have an open mind when interacting with other cultures. In order for us to form relationships with other countries, we need to respect their culture beliefs and not let that interfere with learning and growing from each other. Check123
I thought this video was very interesting to watch. I did not realize that one culture finds a certain gesture to be very offensive while the other does not. This opened up my eyes and made me realize that I should do my research before traveling to a different country. I would not want to risk being arrested, for example in the Philippines, for simply beckoning someone else to come towards me. If I was traveling, I would also not want to draw attention to myself by the other natives by using gestures that they would find to be insulting. What may seem normal to me is not normal to someone else around the world. It is also smart to be aware of a certains culture's symbols and meanings when it comes to doing business internationally. One can not offend the other by wrinkling their business card in Japan, for instance, because it could cost an important business exchange. I was most shocked that people in Korea find smiling to be a way of telling the other person that they are stupid. I have always grown up believing that smiling is a polite way to greet other people and show that you are being sincere and happy to be with another person. We can not let ourselves think that what we believe and find to be normal is not what the rest of the world believes as well. Our society does not make up the entire globe. We only make up a small fraction of our world and we can not let ourselves think that everyone else thinks like us. In order to be more open minded, we all need to respect other cultures and their values. Without interaction with other cultures, we can not learn from each other and benefit from our ideas. Check123
I thought it was interesting too! Most of those gestures are commonly used amongst Americans, so it would be easy for us to offend them or get arrested. The last thing I want to do is offend someone. I like the point that you made when you discussed people that are on business trips. I did not know that putting a business card in your pocket in Japan is considered offensive. Almost everyone does that in America (or throws them away). I agree with you that the United States is merely a small fraction of the entire world. A lot of Americans believe that there the only people that matter. You commonly hear (some, not all) Americans say that everyone should learn English, everyone should read left from right, and so forth. That is ridiculous to me. Like you said, everyone needs to be more open minded and respectful towards people's cultures, values, beliefs, and so forth. When I traveled to Russia and South Korea, I did some research about their cultural norms and what to expect. I still found out more things when I arrived, though. I did not do any research before going to Mexico because I figured it would be somewhat similar but they have a variety of different values, beliefs, and cultural norms. That is how I grew up to. Smiling is my family and I's go to greeting. That was hard to stop doing while I was in South Korea since it was such a big habit of mine. I agree; Interacting with other cultures would be beneficial because we can learn from each other and give one another ideas. -softball_savvy123
I agree that it was an interesting video to watch. The video opened up our views to just a very minute number of cultural and possibly offensive gestures. It is very important to know what is normal when traveling to another country to fit in and be respectful. I also agree that what is normal is completely relative. Society shapes our norms and beliefs, and we need to get out of our heads that our normal is right. As you said, "we only make up a small fraction of the world," and we need to be mindful of those other cultures, as we can really make an impact when breaking the norm. aardvark123
This video was intriguing to watch. I have traveled out of the country a dozen or so times, so it is very important to me to be able to respect everyone I come into contact with even if it is in another country. I believe that there should be more videos like this that people should be required to watch so that everyone can be respected. People in the United States tend to believe that we are the only people that matter. Everyone should speak English, everyone should read left to right, and so forth. This is not the case, and I hate that some people believe that. Every culture is special and have their own beliefs and values that we should not be judgmental of. We need to be able to interact and speak to people from other cultures so that we can learn from one another. The offensive gesture that I was most shocked about was the one in Korea. I learned this a few years ago, because I traveled to South Korea on a mission trip, but at that time, I was shocked. Smiling is my go to greeting towards people. When I traveled to Russia, a Russian child told me that sticking up your pinky finger is the same as sticking up your middle finger in the United States. It is so interesting learning about other cultures! Culture shock is easy to happen. You become disoriented when you see a polar opposite culture than what you are normally used to. I was a freshman in high school, fourteen, when I went to Russia. The first day was a bit of a cultural shock for me, but I eventually got used to their culture, beliefs, and values. Everyone should want to learn about other cultures so that they can be educated and respectful. -softball_savvy123
I agree with your post a lot. I can really relate with your ideas and the beliefs you have written about. I also agree that it should be mandatory to watch videos much like this one. I believe there needs to be attention brought to this problem. I also think its really cool where you have traveled and the opportunities that you got to take. I also think it is very important not to judge other cultures just because they are different than ours. That they demand the same respect that we do. I agree with your point about everyone needing to speak English as well. I have honestly heard that from so many different people in this area. I think it is a really rude and hurtful comment to make. I also just think it is completely inconsiderate thing to say or even think.
I agree with your post a lot. I can really relate with your ideas and the beliefs you have written about. I also agree that it should be mandatory to watch videos much like this one. I believe there needs to be attention brought to this problem. I also think its really cool where you have traveled and the opportunities that you got to take. I also think it is very important not to judge other cultures just because they are different than ours. That they demand the same respect that we do. I agree with your point about everyone needing to speak English as well. I have honestly heard that from so many different people in this area. I think it is a really rude and hurtful comment to make. I also just think it is completely inconsiderate thing to say or even think. Litv123
I think this video is a really interesting and strange one at the same time. It is always really interesting to me to learn about new cultures. This video is really interesting though because it shows how something we know as normal can have a completely different meaning across the world. Gestures or activities we do here every day can be so rude and disrespectful somewhere else. I think this is something that needs to be taught across America and shown to the students as something of importance. It is extremely disrespectful to learn only one culture and believe that their is only one way of doing things. I think each and every culture needs to be appreciated. If any one of us were born there we would not know any different or think any different about those symbols. I think it is one of the most important things that can be taught in a classroom is respect. I think that is a large problem amongst American population and is a subject that could be very utilized worldwide. I also think American people as a whole are very judgmental and think that everyone should learn about our culture and do things our way. I think that is a completely disrespectful comment, however I just think that it is a very real issue here. There are so many different cultures and each one deserves the same amount of respect as ours. I do not believe any culture is superior over the other at all. Everyone should be treated equally and with the same amount of respect in return. I believe the more culturally diverse you are as a person the more successful of a person you will be. I also believe it will help you in day to day life. Litv123
I also thought this video was really interesting and insightful. I think it would be a great idea for some of these simple gestures and meanings to be taught across America. Everyone could have a better understanding for the norms of other cultures and not look at them oddly when we see something we are not used to. We can also show these cultures the respect they deserve. The worst would be people offending others and not even knowing that they offended them, which happens way to much in our world. The statement that all Americans are very judgmental is absolutely true. The American population believes the world revolves around them and that is absolutely not true. Hopefully knowing what we know will made us more culturally diverse and ultimately successful! Scuba123
I agree with you 100 percent people only see things for how they are in the united states and believes that is the correct way when really everyone in the world has there own beliefs I also agree with you when you said “the more culturally diverse you are as a person the more successful of a person you will be.” which is so true. The more you know about the world the more you know about different norms and how people will react to certain situations. Also you will know the do’s and don'ts of others society's. Dancer123.
I really enjoyed watching this video. It is very interesting to see some of the ways of cultures do things and communicate with each other. ]Seeing something like this really makes you step outside of your own sociological bubble and see the perspective of others. You always have to remember, just because you think one way doesn't mean everyone thinks that way too. After watching this video, I can really step back and put meaning to some of the things mentioned. One example is the "thumbs up" sign. In the United States this is used as a good sign and has no bad meaning associated with it. On the other hand, in Iran, this is not a happy sign and means "up yours", which does make sense when you think about the movement you are doing when you show this sign. All of these different gestures meaning different things around the world are all examples of culture shock. Culture shock is the disorientation due to the inability to make sense out of unfamiliar ways of life. This occurs all around the world, when traveling to new places. To avoid culture shock, I will always do my research before traveling. I would hate to offend anyone from another country especially when I am in their country. Some of these things could be hard to get used to. For example, in India it is very rude to use your left hand. I am very used to using both of my hands for everything I do so I would have trouble remembering. It would be very difficult for an American who was left handed to travel to India and follow their customs. It is very important to respect any norms or customs set forth by a given country. They deserve just as much respect as our own. Scuba123
The movie I found to be very amusing and interesting at the same time. To think that some of our everyday actions or gestures of kindness can have a totally different meaning in another culture is actually shocking. Some simple things in the way we do things here in the United States can offend or mean something completely different elsewhere. Take, for example, the idea of complimenting someone of one of their possessions that they have. I have been taught that this is a polite thing to do. Not meaning nothing of it, or not begging to have it. Well, in an Arab or African nation this could cause the person to feel like they have to give you the possession. I don’t know if the refusal of the possession would cause the person to take offense of you refusing the gift. I would also find it hard not using my left hand since I am left handed. Here again some places find using your left hand offensive. Smiling in Korea caught me off guard also. I have two adopted children from Korea. When deciding to adopt from there I tried to educate myself on some of the cultures and traditions. I have never heard that smiling at someone is the same as calling them a dummy. Now I am a certified scuba diver and one way of communicating is through hand gestures. In class I was taught to give your dive partner the A. O. K. to show that everything is alright. Finding out that this could be misunderstood in another culture that it represents a part of the human anatomy. I can assure you that when I am Forty or more feet underwater someone's anatomy is not on my mind at that time. One small bit of culture shock that I personally come across is when I went to Germany. I was on the Autobahn and pulled over at a rest stop. When I used the facilities I noticed that there were ladies standing outside of the restrooms standing by these large containers. I was later notified that this was for tips. These ladies were the ones that kept the restrooms clean and it was common for people to give them tips for keeping it clean. I don’t recall anything like this in the United States. Maybe about twenty years ago in a higher priced restaurant there might be a man in the restrooms offering some gum or cologne for a tip. I guess it is best practise to find out as much as you can about a place before going there. That is not only for foreign travel either. One can experience some culture shock traveling within the borders of the United States also. Diver 123
I had a similar experience when I went to Italy and they charged you a euro to use the restroom. This was something that was totally normal and happened throughout Italy and not just in a certain touristy area. The other thing that was really interesting in Italy is the concept of personal space. In America, we have a general understanding that three feet of space for communication is normal. But in Italy they have no concept of that at all and will come up right to your face to talk to you, or stand right next to you in the metro. I like my space so this was something that was difficult for me to deal with. I think it is really neat that you have adopted two kids from Korea! My brother is engaged to a Korean and she shared with me one of the differences in that in Korea friends who are girls walk arm in arm and even sometimes hold hands. sunflower123
Every culture has its own way of living, and it’s what makes our world so interesting. In each culture there are hand gestures that do not even remotely mean the same thing in America. The thumbs up gesture here means that everything is okay, whereas in the Middle East it means the same thing as our middle finger. Because of these differences, we need to pay more attention to the customs of cultures especially if you go to visit that country. A couple of years ago my brother moved to Seoul, South Korea for school. I remember him telling a couple of stories about how when he first got there he had to figure out how to get from the airport to his school and it took him several hours to get there event with him asking for help. The older generation never once helped him. He was finally showed grace by a young man on a bicycle who could speak a little English. He has been there for two years and has made several friends by now. But at first it was difficult for him to meet anybody because in their culture you do not walk up to people and start talking to them. You need some type of introduction for communication to start. Social apps are also popular in the younger generation, and can be a way to start communication online before meeting in person. The older generation does not follow these same scruples, and are still set in their old ways. He is now engaged to a Korean woman and pictures of him with her family are pretty funny. He is the only one smiling and everyone else has a blank face. I think in the end people should have more grace when it comes to these cultural differences and laugh at the differences instead of being offended. sunflower123
I totally agree with you! I find it very funny that the silliest of gestures can be a criminal offense in some countries. I agree with what you said about researching a little bit about what culture you will find yourself immersed in when traveling. I wouldn't want to be arrested or frowned upon when doing something normal to me and finding out that it is inappropriate and illegal. Honestly, I laughed the whole time while watching this video. In America, one of our most used gestures used for encouragement can mean offending and flipping someone off in Iran and most middle eastern countries. That right there can be such a culture shock for someone who did not know that beforehand. Culture is something so beautiful, comical, and refreshing all at the same time. We should all be willing to learn and respect the different cultures. It isn't just us in the world. panda123
I completely agree with the statement you made about people needing more grace when it comes to cultural differences. I think it's interesting how all across the globe the same hand gesture can have multiple meanings. Being conscientious of cultural norms when traveling in other countries can spare you of some awkward interactions with locals. I've never been outside of the country and I think it's really interesting to hear the different stories people have getting accustomed to a new lifestyle, such as your brother. I also think its really funny that you mentioned that he was the only one smiling in his fiance's family photos. I mentioned in my response that I'm constantly smiling at strangers because to me it has always been a sign of friendliness. I find it very weird that in Korea it indicates you think the other person is stupid. I think that it should become a global norm to accept every culture's norms when traveling abroad, and that people should in fact be able to laugh and shrug it off when others experience culture shock. Daisy123
In order to talk about culture shock, first one needs to have a good understanding on what culture is. Culture is a society’s way of life. It is the collective thoughts, beliefs, and ideas shared by members of a society. Cultures usually change over time, which is why it is important to stay updated. Culture shock is when someone has trouble adjusting to a culture that he is being exposed to for the first time. It is unnerving to see how easily someone can be taken back by culture shock. This video displayed how just a few of the many seemingly harmless, American symbols can throw someone under culture shock. Learning this has been enlightening to me because I plan to study abroad in Scotland in 2019. Before I go, I will need to study up on the cultural norms of Scotland. This is something everyone should do before traveling abroad. Culture shock is a real problem. If more people are made aware of the effects of culture shock, then more may be done to prevent it. I can think of three ways to prevent culture shock. The first is self awareness. Before experiencing another culture, one should study up on it. Learn the do’s and don’t’s. Research ways to show respect and disrespect in that specific culture. The second thing people can do is inform people who are causing culture shock. If you are in another culture’s setting with a friend and you know that your friend is doing something disrespectful, tell them! Don’t let it happen, because if it happens once it will most likely happen again. The final thing people can do it help out people experience our own culture for their first time. This includes making them aware of our cultural norms as well as being there for them as they experience cultural shock. If these three things are done then there should be a large decrease in culture shock. -M&M
You are so right when you said that usually it is a seemingly harmless and minuscule thing that can seriously offend someone or cause problems in another culture. It is not like they are purposefully doing something rude, however even a smile can make someone feel stupid in Korea! Definitely doing your research and becoming aware of things that might be offensive in other cultures is key. I think it is perfect that you took this class before traveling to Scotland so now you can be prepared for all of the differences that you would never have otherwise thought of. -Chameleon123
On a global scale, there are about 7,000 languages spoken, which means there are about 7,000 different cultures spread across the world. That means that there are thousands of cultural norms that may not be considered the norm in the United States. Being aware of some of the common cultural norms before visiting a new destination may be helpful so you don't offend anyone. I had already known a few of these norms, but most of them had come as a cultural shock to me. I'm constantly finding myself smiling at strangers, especially when I'm in a good mood. Working as a waitress has taught me that smiling is very important at making guests feel like they're in a friendly environment. If I were to do this in Korea, it would insult many of the citizens there because it's an indication that I think they're stupid. Honestly, that doesn't even make sense to me because smiling has always been an indication of friendliness to me. Another one I thought was really interesting was the culture norm about timeliness in Argentina. There, it is a sign of greed to be punctual and most people show up to dinner parties about an hour late. In my family, I've always heard the saying, "It's better to be an hour early than five minutes late". Being punctual has always been a sign of respect where I grew up, so this cultural norm was definitely a shock. This video was very interesting and makes me wonder what other cultural norms are out there that are the exact opposite to what I find to be normal. Daisy123
I really agree with your intro about traveling. When traceling it’s always a good idea to study up on everyday things so not to offend anyone. I never thought about waitressing when it came to that smiling fact. I work for fast food and I always get scolded for not smiling enough. I never took that into consideration, good point! My mom has always taught me to be an on time person, so being in Argentina would be tough for me if I went to a party. That one I also thought was an odd one, I find it annoying when people show up really late. rosethorns123
It’s interesting to read your persepective of the smiling thing as a waiter. I think it is weird that in America everybody smiles all of the time everywhere, especially when customer servicing. I work in retail and understand that it is a sign of friendliness. Smiling can make someone feel a lot better about themselves or can make someone’s day. The fact that smiling in another country is not a sign of greeting, but an insult, is strange. It’s like the emotional ties with a simple facial expression completely flip. I also that the Argentina one was interesting. I have also always been taught to show up on time. To show up a full hour late would probably cause someone in America to cancel whatever plans people were having or call and ask them where they are. I wonder if in Argentina, they even worry about the people who show up late or if they just know they’re being nice. -Kiwi123
I’m already excited to write about this one! I used to watch these videos all the time, including this one. So for starters, the thumbs up being equivalent to an “up yours” so to speak, really isn’t surprising to me. I’m pretty sure I’ve heard of this before, and it’s just a finger. America chose the middle one and they chose the thumb. The Japanese business cards I’m also not too surprised with. Things seem much more formal over there when it comes to work or business, so the fact that damaging the card is disrespectful doesn’t shock me. I would never be able to visit and African or Arabian home, the only small talk I can make is compliments, so I’d be leaving with a truck load. Actually, maybe I should go visit someday. Japan is so polite, the not filling your own glass fact just made me smile, I think it’s really nice. For years I’ve always heard about the left hand being for bathroom business and the right hand being for all other business. Thankfully I’m right handed. Another situation where I wouldn’t be able to attend is and Argentinian party. I’m usually early to events so I’d probably be kicked out of the party by how early I am. Slurping your food is polite in Japan, and so is not finishing all of your food! It shows the chef that you enjoyed it. If you eat all of your food, the chef thinks that they didn’t make enough food for you, just a fun fact! I could live in Korea for the rest of my life if it means I don’t have to smile at a single person. And for the last one, the fact that you can get arrested for beckoning someone? Wow, thats a place where you’d have to be really careful. rosethorns123
This video was so fascinating to watch. I think it is so crazy to see how even the most minor symbols that we do not even think twice about using in the United States can be very offensive and even send you to jail in other counties. We tend to be very ethnocentric and assume that people will conform to our ways because they are most definitely the best. For example, if we see someone doing something that is not in the norm for our culture such as not wearing deodorant, we put the blame on them saying that they need to start changing their ways. This is far from the truth however. Each society has its own culture and we need to pay careful respect to what might make people in other countries uncomfortable or offended. The fact that I found most shocking from the video was that if you smile at someone in Korea they take it as you calling them stupid. That would be a tremendously difficult thing for me to remember because I feel rude for not smiling at someone. On the other hand, I would fit in great in Argentina because I am naturally late for everything anyway. Cultural shock is not only an issue between countries, it can also be apparent in everyday life. For example, when my brother tells people he is vegan sometimes people can be taken aback by it since the american diet is typically heavy on animal products. When talking about cultural relativism, people that are so used to eating animal products assume that my brother is in the wrong with his diet. However, brother is equally guilty as he accuses the non-vegans as being in the wrong. In reality, there is no right or wrong, there is merely difference. -Chameleon123
I agree with you in saying how the video is fascinating. I found it interesting and amusing. We as Americans do feel that our way is the right way, and we do not consider other ways to be the correct way. I like the fact that you state that we need to pay careful respect to what makes others uncomfortable. There are a lot of self centered people out there that don’t give others respect just because they do things a little differently. I also like the fact that you consider there can be culture shock not only going to a foreign land, but it can also happen here in everyday life. I also like the fact that you admit there is no right or wrong way, there is only difference which is so true. Diver123
It is quite interesting that being punctual in Argentina is considered offensive because in America we would consider it rude if people are not punctual. I think this could be because American culture values efficiency so showing up to a party when specified is something Americans would value. I had a relative would studied abroad in South America and they said that many countries in South America don’t care about being efficient. They will let people sit at restaurants all night because they are not preoccupied with time and their companies are underproductive because they are not concerned with making every work day efficient. The attitudes of different cultures carry over into symbols. I also thought it was interesting that the symbols that we view as good such as a thumbs up and the okay sign are offensive in other countries. The thumbs up and okay sign are some of the only symbols I use to communicate “good job”. I also noticed that there was a lot of offensive things that you can do when eating or drinking. For example only using your left hand in India and other Muslim other and not pouring your own drink in Japan. I think it would be really easy to make one of these mistakes because eating is something we do every day we wouldn’t even notice it. I also feel like it is very common for people in America to complement on material items as we are a materialistic society however complementing one’s materials items is not something that you want to do if you are in Africa. I think there is a link between the different values in the culture and the things they find offensive. Before traveling to other countries I will definitely research the culture in order to avoid offending other people. -Glass123
I'm glad you pointed out the importance of being late in Argentina as I too found it to be quite interesting that punctuality is actually of less importance in a country like Argentina. More often than not, especially in America, it would seem that there is a stress on being early or right on time to most daily events. So to see a country like Argentina pronounce that punctuality is actually rude is of complete shock to my culture because I've been taught to be an hour early everywhere I go by my parents since the day I was born.-MrG123
Having watched this video, it is quite interesting to see what is and isn't considered rude in other parts of the world. Upon the mention of it being rude to slurp one's soup in western cultures while being a perfectly normal practice in Japan, the video has me wondering why I haven't been living in Japan my whole life. I've been slurping my soup all this time and no one even bothered to tell me it was rude? Now that might sound like a sexual innuendo but it's true. Putting all of that aside however, this video reminded of an important lesson my mom taught me growing up, and that is to always use manners as they are useful in almost every situation in life. However, what my American raised manners seem to be polite for in America could be a crime punishable by jail time in another country. As I'm sure most of the students in this class could agree, we were all raised with a specific set of moral values in mind that entailed certain gestures or verbal cues that initiated a particular action. When we see our friend in the hallway at ICC we might give them the okay sign which is perfectly normal in America, while being very rude in Brazil as it represents the hole on our behinds. With that being said, at some point or another we will encounter an individual of a different culture in our own country as well as possibly in our various travels around the globe. When we encounter these individuals we must certainly keep in mind the backgrounds of different cultures and how they communicate in order to create better communication for ourselves and the rest of the countries across the globe. Just remember not to compliment someone's couch in the Middle East, unless you want to pay priority shipping to take it home with you to America.-MrG123
I felt that the slurping your soup in Japan was considered rude is something understandable within all countries. I feel that it is rude to slurp anything whether it may be soup, soda, spaghetti, or other slurped type of food or drinks. I totally agree with manners should be used as they are useful I’m almost every situation in life. I find it very cruel for other countries to allow imprisonment for things of this such matter. You know I find it hard to not compliment others, so I guess I would be one those people paying priority shipping to take the item and/or product home with me. I thought that the video had some interesting gestures and choice of wording that is restricted in other countries, but allowed in the U.S. Rendezvous123
While watching this video I came across some interesting things that are done amongst people of diverse cultures. The video showed the most 10 surprising ways to offend people in other countries. You may not think that the hand gestures or even word of choice we use in the United States would be any offense to someone else in another culture, but this video showed otherwise. Thumbs up isn’t friendly in Iran and parts of the Middle East it means ‘up yours’. I have been a witness to that. To me thumbs up means you did an excellent job. When someone in Japan gives you their business card, handle it with care putting it in your pocket would cause great offense. As an individual that would be something that you would have to keep in mind if you are not from Japan, because most people in my opinion put things in their pockets. Making a compliment like “I love your couch” in Arab and African nations. This can make your host feel awkwardly obliged to give you the item. When drinking in Japan, it is impolite to fill your own glass. You should fill the glass of the person beside you. In Muslim countries and India, it is very rude to use your left hand to eat. The left hand is reserved for bathroom duty. Now this one I find strange, because what about the people who are left handed? How would the left-handed people be able to eat with their right hand if this is not something they are used to doing? When going to a dinner party in Argentina make sure to be about an hour late, as it’s a sign of greed to be punctual. Slurping your soup is considered impolite in Western cultures. In Japan, it’s good manners and shows you’re enjoying your food. Simply smile to insult someone in Korea smiling at a stranger is an indication that you think they’re stupid. The “okay sign” is very rude in Brazil and Turkey. It signifies a similar shaped part of the human anatomy which is the gluteus maximus. I figured out the signification based on the video clipped they used within the video. Don’t beckon someone with your finger in the Philippines. It’s considered fit for dog’s and is punishable by arrest. I feel that is crazy for the Philippines to arrest someone based off a hand gesture. Rendezvous123
I think that cultural differences are amusing but difficult to understand. It’s crazy to think that things that don’t mean much to us in America could be so important in other countries. It is cool to me that something as simple as hand gestures exist in the same form but mean opposite things. I think that it would be difficult for me to conform to ways of other cultures if I ever visited them because of how basic the things are like giving a thumbs up or eating with my left hand. Although, I can respect and understand why some of the things exist when I think of the meaning behind it. In Japan, you’re not supposed to put somebody’s business card in your pocket. This makes sense because it shows respect to the person on the card. It is their symbol of success or their career and other people should consider it to be important. In America, it is special but it is also just a piece of paper, so putting it in our pockets is not disrespectful. I found the one about the Arabs feeling obliged to give you their things after you tell them you love it is interesting. I always say that I love things very casually because I like them. If I were to visit an Arab country, I would probably make a lot of people uncomfortable. Especially being an interior design major, I would compliment the interiors of homes. It’s weird that if someone said they loved my top in America, I would never think of giving it to them. I would probably just say thank you and maybe tell them where I bought it. I think that shows a lot about their character over there if they are willing to give up something just because someone else shows similar taste. -Kiwi123
I definitely agree with you. It's really cool that these symbols are both relevant in the cultures but differ so greatly. I also think it would be difficult to not do these things that could offend people because most of the list in the video were things that I do without even thinking about it like smiling or thumbs up. I also find the Arabs feeling obliged to give you their things interesting for the same reason. People always compliment outfits so like if they say they like my dress I'm just like 'thanks it has pockets.' I'm not thinking about trying to give it to them because I would never just give someone my things because they like it. -SAS123
You make very valid points Kiwi123 it is quite interesting that Arabs feel compelled to give away furniture and I would be in the same boat as you as far as making people feel uncomfortable because I would constantly give my opinion if something catches my eye, I speak on it. If I were to ever go there, I just might be a furniture sales person lol I wonder if they trade off items... But I think it is really neat to see someone else's culture and to really appreciate it just knowing that it's unique to them. Benoodle123
In the video “Culture…I just said what?” discusses how different countries have a different way of life. They use some things we are used to in a different way such as signs, symbols, hand gestures, and emotions. Language also ties into culture. It may not be ‘normal’ for us but its normal for them. Some of the things we’re used to doing are not appropriate in other countries. For an example in the video it showed that the “okay” sign was not appropriate to do in Brazil & Turkey because it signified a similar shape part of the human anatomy. The video gave a top ten of the signs that were normal things to do in some parts of the world but different in other parts. There are way more signs and things that are different in our eyes. Being aware of this is a sign of respect because you may be thrown in jail, fined, or not wanted in other countries by simply doing the wrong gesture in a different country. Many of these were surprising because we are taught not to interact or smile at strangers but in Korea they use smiling as a sign of insult, and saying someone is stupid. This is called culture shock. This kind of relates to words used with different meanings. Culture is reflected in language and language perpetuates culture. Culture is learned through communication which makes the language particularly important. People gives symbols meaning. If it wasn’t for people, symbols would just be signs. This video shows how we give symbols meanings. If there was one way to read symbols, then other parts of the county would be on the same page. Also in the video, it showed how its impolite so slurp in Western cultures but in Japan its good manners and it shows that you are enjoying your food. These are all in the domestic and foreign travel. -Dancer123
I found this video very informative and interesting. While you can never know everything about another culture, it is good to learn as much as you can about different places in the world. I also think it is important not to think things like this are weird. I showed the video to my sister, and she was like “slurping your soup? Ew. that’s so weird.” But it’s only weird to her because she grew up in the United States. My brother studied in Vietnam and he said he can attest to the people slurping their soups. I really found the one about giving someone your couch funny to be honest. I cannot imagine trying not to compliment anything because you don’t want to make the host feel uncomfortable to the point they offer you their belongings. I also found it very interesting that you can be arrested by motioning someone toward you. I think of that as such a normal thing in America but it’s not common in other places. I also find it interesting just the fact that you can get arrested for that. In America we don’t really think about getting arrested by body signs. That’s why people flip off people so easy, etc. It’s crazy to think that a culture can be so different than ours because all I have ever known is my own. Some very common things that we do without even thinking can seriously offend someone from another culture and could get you arrested. Especially something like not smiling in Korea. I work at a nursing home and at a restaurant, so basically my whole life is smiling at strangers. I smile at the home because the people do not remember who I am and at the restaurant I have my customer service smile on. Something like that would be very hard for me not to do if I were to travel to that country. -SAS123
I also found it extremely weird that one could be arrested simply for motioning with a body part. But then I thought about it more and realized that maybe to another country it is weird that we are NOT arrested for flipping people off. I do not think that culture should ever be judged (not that that is what you are doing, of course) from a viewpoint that your culture is in some way, shape, or form, superior to the other’s culture. This is like the mindset of many patriarchal British people from the 1400’s up to even the late 1800’s: that their culture is superior than the culture of those other “barbarians” and “savages” of Africa or the Caribbean, or wherever you like, really. -ThreeTwo123
While this video was enjoyable and fun, it also delves a bit more deeply into human nature itself. Why do we have these weird, differing societal implications? Culture shock is certainly a real and vibrant experience. I have personally experienced it a few different times in my travels both inside and outside of the United States. However, an experience that I found to be even more profound is that of reverse culture shock. I would define reverse culture shock as trying to assimilate both your physical self as well as your personal worldview back to your original culture and town. I remember specifically right after I came back from a mission trip to Haiti I went grocery shopping with a friend who also went on the trip. I found her bawling in the cereal aisle of Kroger because “Our cereal aisle is bigger than any grocery store they have there!” And she was absolutely right; and yes, it was sad. The point that I am attempting to make is that culture shock can work both ways. In a weird, kind of twisted way (because that is just how my brain works sometimes), reverse culture shock is similar to stockholm syndrome: in one you start identifying with a different culture or country and in the other you start identifying with your kidnappers. Getting back on point now, I think that it is fantastic that different cultures use different signals and nonverbal cues. I believe that this ability to utilize language in such a unique way is what sets us apart as humans; it is what makes us special. Both my junior and senior year of highschool my family had the opportunity to host a foreign exchange student from South Korea. I am so grateful we had this opportunity as through it both she and I were able to learn more about the other’s culture. For example, the smiling thing that the video mentioned is not true from what she has told me. She described South Korea as a very modern place similar to the United States in many ways. -ThreeTwo123
Watching this video, a person who has never been exposed to different cultures or been outside of this country, may view some of the slides egregious because many of the gestures are common and does not have a bad connotation attached to it like in some of the other countries. Culture Shock is especially present today because many people within our country freely express themselves and it’s different from what we’re used to seeing. I was really shocked by the summoning a dog but to that same gesture to a human is grounds for getting arrested. It is something that is so minute that may leave a person feeling very out of place and alienated from other people around him. I was also taken aback by the slide saying you should be an hour late to a dinner party as it’s a sign of greed to be on time; whereas here in America, if someone were that late I would have left and told them we can rearrange it for another day. I think it would be very important to do your research especially if you know that you will be meeting someone from a different country or with different views from yours because it is very easy to offend someone just as it may be very easy to offend someone from the United States as well. Finding out the differences within someone’s culture is so important as well because it expands your mind to think on a completely different level and may cause you to appreciate some of the freedoms and liberties that we have here in America. Although some of the gestures might take me a while to adjust to because it is so second nature to do certain things. Yet and still, culture is our identity, it is who we are individually and collectively. It is important to respect and try to understand why some cultures do the things that they do and why they may react to certain things in the manner that they do. Benoodles123
This video instils a sense of culture shock within the viewer, which is quite interesting. Phrases and gestures that are completely normal to a certain society can be impolite or extremely offensive to another. It is important to think about another culture’s norms when being around a majority of people with that culture in order to be polite and not skew so far from the norms. In addition, it is important to be knowledgeable about these norms before visiting with those of another culture for the same reasons. In a worst case scenario, you may break a more without even realizing it, which would be the ultimate faux pas. It is also important to understand and follow the norms for your own safety when traveling. For example, in the video, beckoning with your finger to someone in the Philippines can land you in jail if the offense were serious enough, changing your life and possibly causing harm to you due to the other inmates. Having an understanding of social norms in other cultures should not be an optional concept. Not only would a lack of this knowledge be insensitive to a different culture but an offence caused by ignorance of culture could be life-threatening. It is also important to realize when learning about other cultural norms that no one culture is better or ‘more right’ than another. It is all a matter of perspective and how society has shaped you. Your ‘right’ may be somebody else’s ‘punishable by death.’ In the grand scheme of things, values become murky, and people, especially those with any basic understanding of sociology, need to know that sensitivity and an understanding of other cultures is the key to peaceful interactions. Rationally, being able to use the sociological imagination and remove ourselves from the situation will give us the ability to adapt to and understand other cultures. aardvark123
ReplyDeleteI completely agree that, "having an understanding of social norms in other cultures should not be an optional concept," in the case that one is going to experience that culture. There are many different cultures all over the world. To be aware of all of them would be impossible. However, being aware of what is and isn't respectful in cultures that you will come in contact with is vital. We should want to respect other cultures as much as we want people to respect our own culture.There really is nothing that makes our culture better than any other, but there are lots of things that make it different. -M&M
DeleteAardvark123, I completely agree with you when you stated that we should be knowledgeable about the norms of a different country prior to visiting. It would be a complete nightmare if your whole entire life was ruined by being thrown in another country’s jail for performing a simple gesture that was very offensive in that country. When traveling, one needs to be careful and socially aware of the differences in cultures. We need to prepare for experiencing culture shock. I also agree when you state that we should not be stuck in the thought of believing that one culture is better or ‘more right’ than another. I think it is important to have an open mind when interacting with other cultures. In order for us to form relationships with other countries, we need to respect their culture beliefs and not let that interfere with learning and growing from each other. Check123
DeleteI thought this video was very interesting to watch. I did not realize that one culture finds a certain gesture to be very offensive while the other does not. This opened up my eyes and made me realize that I should do my research before traveling to a different country. I would not want to risk being arrested, for example in the Philippines, for simply beckoning someone else to come towards me. If I was traveling, I would also not want to draw attention to myself by the other natives by using gestures that they would find to be insulting. What may seem normal to me is not normal to someone else around the world. It is also smart to be aware of a certains culture's symbols and meanings when it comes to doing business internationally. One can not offend the other by wrinkling their business card in Japan, for instance, because it could cost an important business exchange. I was most shocked that people in Korea find smiling to be a way of telling the other person that they are stupid. I have always grown up believing that smiling is a polite way to greet other people and show that you are being sincere and happy to be with another person. We can not let ourselves think that what we believe and find to be normal is not what the rest of the world believes as well. Our society does not make up the entire globe. We only make up a small fraction of our world and we can not let ourselves think that everyone else thinks like us. In order to be more open minded, we all need to respect other cultures and their values. Without interaction with other cultures, we can not learn from each other and benefit from our ideas. Check123
ReplyDeleteI thought it was interesting too! Most of those gestures are commonly used amongst Americans, so it would be easy for us to offend them or get arrested. The last thing I want to do is offend someone. I like the point that you made when you discussed people that are on business trips. I did not know that putting a business card in your pocket in Japan is considered offensive. Almost everyone does that in America (or throws them away). I agree with you that the United States is merely a small fraction of the entire world. A lot of Americans believe that there the only people that matter. You commonly hear (some, not all) Americans say that everyone should learn English, everyone should read left from right, and so forth. That is ridiculous to me. Like you said, everyone needs to be more open minded and respectful towards people's cultures, values, beliefs, and so forth. When I traveled to Russia and South Korea, I did some research about their cultural norms and what to expect. I still found out more things when I arrived, though. I did not do any research before going to Mexico because I figured it would be somewhat similar but they have a variety of different values, beliefs, and cultural norms. That is how I grew up to. Smiling is my family and I's go to greeting. That was hard to stop doing while I was in South Korea since it was such a big habit of mine. I agree; Interacting with other cultures would be beneficial because we can learn from each other and give one another ideas. -softball_savvy123
DeleteI agree that it was an interesting video to watch. The video opened up our views to just a very minute number of cultural and possibly offensive gestures. It is very important to know what is normal when traveling to another country to fit in and be respectful. I also agree that what is normal is completely relative. Society shapes our norms and beliefs, and we need to get out of our heads that our normal is right. As you said, "we only make up a small fraction of the world," and we need to be mindful of those other cultures, as we can really make an impact when breaking the norm. aardvark123
DeleteThis video was intriguing to watch. I have traveled out of the country a dozen or so times, so it is very important to me to be able to respect everyone I come into contact with even if it is in another country. I believe that there should be more videos like this that people should be required to watch so that everyone can be respected. People in the United States tend to believe that we are the only people that matter. Everyone should speak English, everyone should read left to right, and so forth. This is not the case, and I hate that some people believe that. Every culture is special and have their own beliefs and values that we should not be judgmental of. We need to be able to interact and speak to people from other cultures so that we can learn from one another. The offensive gesture that I was most shocked about was the one in Korea. I learned this a few years ago, because I traveled to South Korea on a mission trip, but at that time, I was shocked. Smiling is my go to greeting towards people. When I traveled to Russia, a Russian child told me that sticking up your pinky finger is the same as sticking up your middle finger in the United States. It is so interesting learning about other cultures! Culture shock is easy to happen. You become disoriented when you see a polar opposite culture than what you are normally used to. I was a freshman in high school, fourteen, when I went to Russia. The first day was a bit of a cultural shock for me, but I eventually got used to their culture, beliefs, and values. Everyone should want to learn about other cultures so that they can be educated and respectful. -softball_savvy123
ReplyDeleteI agree with your post a lot. I can really relate with your ideas and the beliefs you have written about. I also agree that it should be mandatory to watch videos much like this one. I believe there needs to be attention brought to this problem. I also think its really cool where you have traveled and the opportunities that you got to take. I also think it is very important not to judge other cultures just because they are different than ours. That they demand the same respect that we do. I agree with your point about everyone needing to speak English as well. I have honestly heard that from so many different people in this area. I think it is a really rude and hurtful comment to make. I also just think it is completely inconsiderate thing to say or even think.
DeleteI agree with your post a lot. I can really relate with your ideas and the beliefs you have written about. I also agree that it should be mandatory to watch videos much like this one. I believe there needs to be attention brought to this problem. I also think its really cool where you have traveled and the opportunities that you got to take. I also think it is very important not to judge other cultures just because they are different than ours. That they demand the same respect that we do. I agree with your point about everyone needing to speak English as well. I have honestly heard that from so many different people in this area. I think it is a really rude and hurtful comment to make. I also just think it is completely inconsiderate thing to say or even think. Litv123
DeleteI think this video is a really interesting and strange one at the same time. It is always really interesting to me to learn about new cultures. This video is really interesting though because it shows how something we know as normal can have a completely different meaning across the world. Gestures or activities we do here every day can be so rude and disrespectful somewhere else. I think this is something that needs to be taught across America and shown to the students as something of importance. It is extremely disrespectful to learn only one culture and believe that their is only one way of doing things. I think each and every culture needs to be appreciated. If any one of us were born there we would not know any different or think any different about those symbols. I think it is one of the most important things that can be taught in a classroom is respect. I think that is a large problem amongst American population and is a subject that could be very utilized worldwide. I also think American people as a whole are very judgmental and think that everyone should learn about our culture and do things our way. I think that is a completely disrespectful comment, however I just think that it is a very real issue here. There are so many different cultures and each one deserves the same amount of respect as ours. I do not believe any culture is superior over the other at all. Everyone should be treated equally and with the same amount of respect in return. I believe the more culturally diverse you are as a person the more successful of a person you will be. I also believe it will help you in day to day life. Litv123
ReplyDeleteI also thought this video was really interesting and insightful. I think it would be a great idea for some of these simple gestures and meanings to be taught across America. Everyone could have a better understanding for the norms of other cultures and not look at them oddly when we see something we are not used to. We can also show these cultures the respect they deserve. The worst would be people offending others and not even knowing that they offended them, which happens way to much in our world. The statement that all Americans are very judgmental is absolutely true. The American population believes the world revolves around them and that is absolutely not true. Hopefully knowing what we know will made us more culturally diverse and ultimately successful! Scuba123
DeleteI agree with you 100 percent people only see things for how they are in the united states and believes that is the correct way when really everyone in the world has there own beliefs I also agree with you when you said “the more culturally diverse you are as a person the more successful of a person you will be.” which is so true. The more you know about the world the more you know about different norms and how people will react to certain situations. Also you will know the do’s and don'ts of others society's. Dancer123.
DeleteI really enjoyed watching this video. It is very interesting to see some of the ways of cultures do things and communicate with each other. ]Seeing something like this really makes you step outside of your own sociological bubble and see the perspective of others. You always have to remember, just because you think one way doesn't mean everyone thinks that way too. After watching this video, I can really step back and put meaning to some of the things mentioned. One example is the "thumbs up" sign. In the United States this is used as a good sign and has no bad meaning associated with it. On the other hand, in Iran, this is not a happy sign and means "up yours", which does make sense when you think about the movement you are doing when you show this sign. All of these different gestures meaning different things around the world are all examples of culture shock. Culture shock is the disorientation due to the inability to make sense out of unfamiliar ways of life. This occurs all around the world, when traveling to new places. To avoid culture shock, I will always do my research before traveling. I would hate to offend anyone from another country especially when I am in their country. Some of these things could be hard to get used to. For example, in India it is very rude to use your left hand. I am very used to using both of my hands for everything I do so I would have trouble remembering. It would be very difficult for an American who was left handed to travel to India and follow their customs. It is very important to respect any norms or customs set forth by a given country. They deserve just as much respect as our own. Scuba123
ReplyDeleteThe movie I found to be very amusing and interesting at the same time. To think that some of our everyday actions or gestures of kindness can have a totally different meaning in another culture is actually shocking. Some simple things in the way we do things here in the United States can offend or mean something completely different elsewhere. Take, for example, the idea of complimenting someone of one of their possessions that they have. I have been taught that this is a polite thing to do. Not meaning nothing of it, or not begging to have it. Well, in an Arab or African nation this could cause the person to feel like they have to give you the possession. I don’t know if the refusal of the possession would cause the person to take offense of you refusing the gift. I would also find it hard not using my left hand since I am left handed. Here again some places find using your left hand offensive. Smiling in Korea caught me off guard also. I have two adopted children from Korea. When deciding to adopt from there I tried to educate myself on some of the cultures and traditions. I have never heard that smiling at someone is the same as calling them a dummy. Now I am a certified scuba diver and one way of communicating is through hand gestures. In class I was taught to give your dive partner the A. O. K. to show that everything is alright. Finding out that this could be misunderstood in another culture that it represents a part of the human anatomy. I can assure you that when I am Forty or more feet underwater someone's anatomy is not on my mind at that time. One small bit of culture shock that I personally come across is when I went to Germany. I was on the Autobahn and pulled over at a rest stop. When I used the facilities I noticed that there were ladies standing outside of the restrooms standing by these large containers. I was later notified that this was for tips. These ladies were the ones that kept the restrooms clean and it was common for people to give them tips for keeping it clean. I don’t recall anything like this in the United States. Maybe about twenty years ago in a higher priced restaurant there might be a man in the restrooms offering some gum or cologne for a tip. I guess it is best practise to find out as much as you can about a place before going there. That is not only for foreign travel either. One can experience some culture shock traveling within the borders of the United States also. Diver 123
ReplyDeleteI had a similar experience when I went to Italy and they charged you a euro to use the restroom. This was something that was totally normal and happened throughout Italy and not just in a certain touristy area. The other thing that was really interesting in Italy is the concept of personal space. In America, we have a general understanding that three feet of space for communication is normal. But in Italy they have no concept of that at all and will come up right to your face to talk to you, or stand right next to you in the metro. I like my space so this was something that was difficult for me to deal with. I think it is really neat that you have adopted two kids from Korea! My brother is engaged to a Korean and she shared with me one of the differences in that in Korea friends who are girls walk arm in arm and even sometimes hold hands.
Deletesunflower123
Every culture has its own way of living, and it’s what makes our world so interesting. In each culture there are hand gestures that do not even remotely mean the same thing in America. The thumbs up gesture here means that everything is okay, whereas in the Middle East it means the same thing as our middle finger. Because of these differences, we need to pay more attention to the customs of cultures especially if you go to visit that country. A couple of years ago my brother moved to Seoul, South Korea for school. I remember him telling a couple of stories about how when he first got there he had to figure out how to get from the airport to his school and it took him several hours to get there event with him asking for help. The older generation never once helped him. He was finally showed grace by a young man on a bicycle who could speak a little English. He has been there for two years and has made several friends by now. But at first it was difficult for him to meet anybody because in their culture you do not walk up to people and start talking to them. You need some type of introduction for communication to start. Social apps are also popular in the younger generation, and can be a way to start communication online before meeting in person. The older generation does not follow these same scruples, and are still set in their old ways. He is now engaged to a Korean woman and pictures of him with her family are pretty funny. He is the only one smiling and everyone else has a blank face. I think in the end people should have more grace when it comes to these cultural differences and laugh at the differences instead of being offended.
ReplyDeletesunflower123
I totally agree with you! I find it very funny that the silliest of gestures can be a criminal offense in some countries. I agree with what you said about researching a little bit about what culture you will find yourself immersed in when traveling. I wouldn't want to be arrested or frowned upon when doing something normal to me and finding out that it is inappropriate and illegal. Honestly, I laughed the whole time while watching this video. In America, one of our most used gestures used for encouragement can mean offending and flipping someone off in Iran and most middle eastern countries. That right there can be such a culture shock for someone who did not know that beforehand. Culture is something so beautiful, comical, and refreshing all at the same time. We should all be willing to learn and respect the different cultures. It isn't just us in the world. panda123
DeleteI completely agree with the statement you made about people needing more grace when it comes to cultural differences. I think it's interesting how all across the globe the same hand gesture can have multiple meanings. Being conscientious of cultural norms when traveling in other countries can spare you of some awkward interactions with locals. I've never been outside of the country and I think it's really interesting to hear the different stories people have getting accustomed to a new lifestyle, such as your brother. I also think its really funny that you mentioned that he was the only one smiling in his fiance's family photos. I mentioned in my response that I'm constantly smiling at strangers because to me it has always been a sign of friendliness. I find it very weird that in Korea it indicates you think the other person is stupid. I think that it should become a global norm to accept every culture's norms when traveling abroad, and that people should in fact be able to laugh and shrug it off when others experience culture shock. Daisy123
DeleteIn order to talk about culture shock, first one needs to have a good understanding on what culture is. Culture is a society’s way of life. It is the collective thoughts, beliefs, and ideas shared by members of a society. Cultures usually change over time, which is why it is important to stay updated. Culture shock is when someone has trouble adjusting to a culture that he is being exposed to for the first time. It is unnerving to see how easily someone can be taken back by culture shock. This video displayed how just a few of the many seemingly harmless, American symbols can throw someone under culture shock. Learning this has been enlightening to me because I plan to study abroad in Scotland in 2019. Before I go, I will need to study up on the cultural norms of Scotland. This is something everyone should do before traveling abroad. Culture shock is a real problem. If more people are made aware of the effects of culture shock, then more may be done to prevent it. I can think of three ways to prevent culture shock. The first is self awareness. Before experiencing another culture, one should study up on it. Learn the do’s and don’t’s. Research ways to show respect and disrespect in that specific culture. The second thing people can do is inform people who are causing culture shock. If you are in another culture’s setting with a friend and you know that your friend is doing something disrespectful, tell them! Don’t let it happen, because if it happens once it will most likely happen again. The final thing people can do it help out people experience our own culture for their first time. This includes making them aware of our cultural norms as well as being there for them as they experience cultural shock. If these three things are done then there should be a large decrease in culture shock.
ReplyDelete-M&M
You are so right when you said that usually it is a seemingly harmless and minuscule thing that can seriously offend someone or cause problems in another culture. It is not like they are purposefully doing something rude, however even a smile can make someone feel stupid in Korea! Definitely doing your research and becoming aware of things that might be offensive in other cultures is key. I think it is perfect that you took this class before traveling to Scotland so now you can be prepared for all of the differences that you would never have otherwise thought of. -Chameleon123
DeleteOn a global scale, there are about 7,000 languages spoken, which means there are about 7,000 different cultures spread across the world. That means that there are thousands of cultural norms that may not be considered the norm in the United States. Being aware of some of the common cultural norms before visiting a new destination may be helpful so you don't offend anyone. I had already known a few of these norms, but most of them had come as a cultural shock to me. I'm constantly finding myself smiling at strangers, especially when I'm in a good mood. Working as a waitress has taught me that smiling is very important at making guests feel like they're in a friendly environment. If I were to do this in Korea, it would insult many of the citizens there because it's an indication that I think they're stupid. Honestly, that doesn't even make sense to me because smiling has always been an indication of friendliness to me. Another one I thought was really interesting was the culture norm about timeliness in Argentina. There, it is a sign of greed to be punctual and most people show up to dinner parties about an hour late. In my family, I've always heard the saying, "It's better to be an hour early than five minutes late". Being punctual has always been a sign of respect where I grew up, so this cultural norm was definitely a shock. This video was very interesting and makes me wonder what other cultural norms are out there that are the exact opposite to what I find to be normal. Daisy123
ReplyDeleteI really agree with your intro about traveling. When traceling it’s always a good idea to study up on everyday things so not to offend anyone. I never thought about waitressing when it came to that smiling fact. I work for fast food and I always get scolded for not smiling enough. I never took that into consideration, good point! My mom has always taught me to be an on time person, so being in Argentina would be tough for me if I went to a party. That one I also thought was an odd one, I find it annoying when people show up really late.
Deleterosethorns123
It’s interesting to read your persepective of the smiling thing as a waiter. I think it is weird that in America everybody smiles all of the time everywhere, especially when customer servicing. I work in retail and understand that it is a sign of friendliness. Smiling can make someone feel a lot better about themselves or can make someone’s day. The fact that smiling in another country is not a sign of greeting, but an insult, is strange. It’s like the emotional ties with a simple facial expression completely flip. I also that the Argentina one was interesting. I have also always been taught to show up on time. To show up a full hour late would probably cause someone in America to cancel whatever plans people were having or call and ask them where they are. I wonder if in Argentina, they even worry about the people who show up late or if they just know they’re being nice. -Kiwi123
DeleteI’m already excited to write about this one! I used to watch these videos all the time, including this one. So for starters, the thumbs up being equivalent to an “up yours” so to speak, really isn’t surprising to me. I’m pretty sure I’ve heard of this before, and it’s just a finger. America chose the middle one and they chose the thumb. The Japanese business cards I’m also not too surprised with. Things seem much more formal over there when it comes to work or business, so the fact that damaging the card is disrespectful doesn’t shock me. I would never be able to visit and African or Arabian home, the only small talk I can make is compliments, so I’d be leaving with a truck load. Actually, maybe I should go visit someday. Japan is so polite, the not filling your own glass fact just made me smile, I think it’s really nice. For years I’ve always heard about the left hand being for bathroom business and the right hand being for all other business. Thankfully I’m right handed. Another situation where I wouldn’t be able to attend is and Argentinian party. I’m usually early to events so I’d probably be kicked out of the party by how early I am. Slurping your food is polite in Japan, and so is not finishing all of your food! It shows the chef that you enjoyed it. If you eat all of your food, the chef thinks that they didn’t make enough food for you, just a fun fact! I could live in Korea for the rest of my life if it means I don’t have to smile at a single person. And for the last one, the fact that you can get arrested for beckoning someone? Wow, thats a place where you’d have to be really careful.
ReplyDeleterosethorns123
feel like it is natural for Americans to make small talk by complementing each other perhaps because Americans are more materialistic. Glass123
DeleteThis video was so fascinating to watch. I think it is so crazy to see how even the most minor symbols that we do not even think twice about using in the United States can be very offensive and even send you to jail in other counties. We tend to be very ethnocentric and assume that people will conform to our ways because they are most definitely the best. For example, if we see someone doing something that is not in the norm for our culture such as not wearing deodorant, we put the blame on them saying that they need to start changing their ways. This is far from the truth however. Each society has its own culture and we need to pay careful respect to what might make people in other countries uncomfortable or offended. The fact that I found most shocking from the video was that if you smile at someone in Korea they take it as you calling them stupid. That would be a tremendously difficult thing for me to remember because I feel rude for not smiling at someone. On the other hand, I would fit in great in Argentina because I am naturally late for everything anyway. Cultural shock is not only an issue between countries, it can also be apparent in everyday life. For example, when my brother tells people he is vegan sometimes people can be taken aback by it since the american diet is typically heavy on animal products. When talking about cultural relativism, people that are so used to eating animal products assume that my brother is in the wrong with his diet. However, brother is equally guilty as he accuses the non-vegans as being in the wrong. In reality, there is no right or wrong, there is merely difference. -Chameleon123
ReplyDeleteI agree with you in saying how the video is fascinating. I found it interesting and amusing. We as Americans do feel that our way is the right way, and we do not consider other ways to be the correct way. I like the fact that you state that we need to pay careful respect to what makes others uncomfortable. There are a lot of self centered people out there that don’t give others respect just because they do things a little differently. I also like the fact that you consider there can be culture shock not only going to a foreign land, but it can also happen here in everyday life. I also like the fact that you admit there is no right or wrong way, there is only difference which is so true. Diver123
DeleteIt is quite interesting that being punctual in Argentina is considered offensive because in America we would consider it rude if people are not punctual. I think this could be because American culture values efficiency so showing up to a party when specified is something Americans would value. I had a relative would studied abroad in South America and they said that many countries in South America don’t care about being efficient. They will let people sit at restaurants all night because they are not preoccupied with time and their companies are underproductive because they are not concerned with making every work day efficient. The attitudes of different cultures carry over into symbols. I also thought it was interesting that the symbols that we view as good such as a thumbs up and the okay sign are offensive in other countries. The thumbs up and okay sign are some of the only symbols I use to communicate “good job”. I also noticed that there was a lot of offensive things that you can do when eating or drinking. For example only using your left hand in India and other Muslim other and not pouring your own drink in Japan. I think it would be really easy to make one of these mistakes because eating is something we do every day we wouldn’t even notice it. I also feel like it is very common for people in America to complement on material items as we are a materialistic society however complementing one’s materials items is not something that you want to do if you are in Africa. I think there is a link between the different values in the culture and the things they find offensive. Before traveling to other countries I will definitely research the culture in order to avoid offending other people. -Glass123
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you pointed out the importance of being late in Argentina as I too found it to be quite interesting that punctuality is actually of less importance in a country like Argentina. More often than not, especially in America, it would seem that there is a stress on being early or right on time to most daily events. So to see a country like Argentina pronounce that punctuality is actually rude is of complete shock to my culture because I've been taught to be an hour early everywhere I go by my parents since the day I was born.-MrG123
DeleteHaving watched this video, it is quite interesting to see what is and isn't considered rude in other parts of the world. Upon the mention of it being rude to slurp one's soup in western cultures while being a perfectly normal practice in Japan, the video has me wondering why I haven't been living in Japan my whole life. I've been slurping my soup all this time and no one even bothered to tell me it was rude? Now that might sound like a sexual innuendo but it's true. Putting all of that aside however, this video reminded of an important lesson my mom taught me growing up, and that is to always use manners as they are useful in almost every situation in life. However, what my American raised manners seem to be polite for in America could be a crime punishable by jail time in another country. As I'm sure most of the students in this class could agree, we were all raised with a specific set of moral values in mind that entailed certain gestures or verbal cues that initiated a particular action. When we see our friend in the hallway at ICC we might give them the okay sign which is perfectly normal in America, while being very rude in Brazil as it represents the hole on our behinds. With that being said, at some point or another we will encounter an individual of a different culture in our own country as well as possibly in our various travels around the globe. When we encounter these individuals we must certainly keep in mind the backgrounds of different cultures and how they communicate in order to create better communication for ourselves and the rest of the countries across the globe. Just remember not to compliment someone's couch in the Middle East, unless you want to pay priority shipping to take it home with you to America.-MrG123
ReplyDeleteI felt that the slurping your soup in Japan was considered rude is something understandable within all countries. I feel that it is rude to slurp anything whether it may be soup, soda, spaghetti, or other slurped type of food or drinks. I totally agree with manners should be used as they are useful I’m almost every situation in life. I find it very cruel for other countries to allow imprisonment for things of this such matter. You know I find it hard to not compliment others, so I guess I would be one those people paying priority shipping to take the item and/or product home with me. I thought that the video had some interesting gestures and choice of wording that is restricted in other countries, but allowed in the U.S. Rendezvous123
DeleteWhile watching this video I came across some interesting things that are done amongst people of diverse cultures. The video showed the most 10 surprising ways to offend people in other countries. You may not think that the hand gestures or even word of choice we use in the United States would be any offense to someone else in another culture, but this video showed otherwise. Thumbs up isn’t friendly in Iran and parts of the Middle East it means ‘up yours’. I have been a witness to that. To me thumbs up means you did an excellent job. When someone in Japan gives you their business card, handle it with care putting it in your pocket would cause great offense. As an individual that would be something that you would have to keep in mind if you are not from Japan, because most people in my opinion put things in their pockets. Making a compliment like “I love your couch” in Arab and African nations. This can make your host feel awkwardly obliged to give you the item. When drinking in Japan, it is impolite to fill your own glass. You should fill the glass of the person beside you. In Muslim countries and India, it is very rude to use your left hand to eat. The left hand is reserved for bathroom duty. Now this one I find strange, because what about the people who are left handed? How would the left-handed people be able to eat with their right hand if this is not something they are used to doing? When going to a dinner party in Argentina make sure to be about an hour late, as it’s a sign of greed to be punctual. Slurping your soup is considered impolite in Western cultures. In Japan, it’s good manners and shows you’re enjoying your food. Simply smile to insult someone in Korea smiling at a stranger is an indication that you think they’re stupid. The “okay sign” is very rude in Brazil and Turkey. It signifies a similar shaped part of the human anatomy which is the gluteus maximus. I figured out the signification based on the video clipped they used within the video. Don’t beckon someone with your finger in the Philippines. It’s considered fit for dog’s and is punishable by arrest. I feel that is crazy for the Philippines to arrest someone based off a hand gesture. Rendezvous123
ReplyDeleteI think that cultural differences are amusing but difficult to understand. It’s crazy to think that things that don’t mean much to us in America could be so important in other countries. It is cool to me that something as simple as hand gestures exist in the same form but mean opposite things. I think that it would be difficult for me to conform to ways of other cultures if I ever visited them because of how basic the things are like giving a thumbs up or eating with my left hand. Although, I can respect and understand why some of the things exist when I think of the meaning behind it. In Japan, you’re not supposed to put somebody’s business card in your pocket. This makes sense because it shows respect to the person on the card. It is their symbol of success or their career and other people should consider it to be important. In America, it is special but it is also just a piece of paper, so putting it in our pockets is not disrespectful. I found the one about the Arabs feeling obliged to give you their things after you tell them you love it is interesting. I always say that I love things very casually because I like them. If I were to visit an Arab country, I would probably make a lot of people uncomfortable. Especially being an interior design major, I would compliment the interiors of homes. It’s weird that if someone said they loved my top in America, I would never think of giving it to them. I would probably just say thank you and maybe tell them where I bought it. I think that shows a lot about their character over there if they are willing to give up something just because someone else shows similar taste. -Kiwi123
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree with you. It's really cool that these symbols are both relevant in the cultures but differ so greatly. I also think it would be difficult to not do these things that could offend people because most of the list in the video were things that I do without even thinking about it like smiling or thumbs up. I also find the Arabs feeling obliged to give you their things interesting for the same reason. People always compliment outfits so like if they say they like my dress I'm just like 'thanks it has pockets.' I'm not thinking about trying to give it to them because I would never just give someone my things because they like it. -SAS123
DeleteYou make very valid points Kiwi123 it is quite interesting that Arabs feel compelled to give away furniture and I would be in the same boat as you as far as making people feel uncomfortable because I would constantly give my opinion if something catches my eye, I speak on it. If I were to ever go there, I just might be a furniture sales person lol I wonder if they trade off items... But I think it is really neat to see someone else's culture and to really appreciate it just knowing that it's unique to them. Benoodle123
DeleteIn the video “Culture…I just said what?” discusses how different countries have a different way of life. They use some things we are used to in a different way such as signs, symbols, hand gestures, and emotions. Language also ties into culture. It may not be ‘normal’ for us but its normal for them. Some of the things we’re used to doing are not appropriate in other countries. For an example in the video it showed that the “okay” sign was not appropriate to do in Brazil & Turkey because it signified a similar shape part of the human anatomy. The video gave a top ten of the signs that were normal things to do in some parts of the world but different in other parts. There are way more signs and things that are different in our eyes. Being aware of this is a sign of respect because you may be thrown in jail, fined, or not wanted in other countries by simply doing the wrong gesture in a different country. Many of these were surprising because we are taught not to interact or smile at strangers but in Korea they use smiling as a sign of insult, and saying someone is stupid. This is called culture shock. This kind of relates to words used with different meanings. Culture is reflected in language and language perpetuates culture. Culture is learned through communication which makes the language particularly important. People gives symbols meaning. If it wasn’t for people, symbols would just be signs. This video shows how we give symbols meanings. If there was one way to read symbols, then other parts of the county would be on the same page. Also in the video, it showed how its impolite so slurp in Western cultures but in Japan its good manners and it shows that you are enjoying your food. These are all in the domestic and foreign travel. -Dancer123
ReplyDeleteI found this video very informative and interesting. While you can never know everything about another culture, it is good to learn as much as you can about different places in the world. I also think it is important not to think things like this are weird. I showed the video to my sister, and she was like “slurping your soup? Ew. that’s so weird.” But it’s only weird to her because she grew up in the United States. My brother studied in Vietnam and he said he can attest to the people slurping their soups. I really found the one about giving someone your couch funny to be honest. I cannot imagine trying not to compliment anything because you don’t want to make the host feel uncomfortable to the point they offer you their belongings. I also found it very interesting that you can be arrested by motioning someone toward you. I think of that as such a normal thing in America but it’s not common in other places. I also find it interesting just the fact that you can get arrested for that. In America we don’t really think about getting arrested by body signs. That’s why people flip off people so easy, etc. It’s crazy to think that a culture can be so different than ours because all I have ever known is my own. Some very common things that we do without even thinking can seriously offend someone from another culture and could get you arrested. Especially something like not smiling in Korea. I work at a nursing home and at a restaurant, so basically my whole life is smiling at strangers. I smile at the home because the people do not remember who I am and at the restaurant I have my customer service smile on. Something like that would be very hard for me not to do if I were to travel to that country. -SAS123
ReplyDeleteI also found it extremely weird that one could be arrested simply for motioning with a body part. But then I thought about it more and realized that maybe to another country it is weird that we are NOT arrested for flipping people off. I do not think that culture should ever be judged (not that that is what you are doing, of course) from a viewpoint that your culture is in some way, shape, or form, superior to the other’s culture. This is like the mindset of many patriarchal British people from the 1400’s up to even the late 1800’s: that their culture is superior than the culture of those other “barbarians” and “savages” of Africa or the Caribbean, or wherever you like, really.
Delete-ThreeTwo123
While this video was enjoyable and fun, it also delves a bit more deeply into human nature itself. Why do we have these weird, differing societal implications? Culture shock is certainly a real and vibrant experience. I have personally experienced it a few different times in my travels both inside and outside of the United States. However, an experience that I found to be even more profound is that of reverse culture shock. I would define reverse culture shock as trying to assimilate both your physical self as well as your personal worldview back to your original culture and town. I remember specifically right after I came back from a mission trip to Haiti I went grocery shopping with a friend who also went on the trip. I found her bawling in the cereal aisle of Kroger because “Our cereal aisle is bigger than any grocery store they have there!” And she was absolutely right; and yes, it was sad. The point that I am attempting to make is that culture shock can work both ways. In a weird, kind of twisted way (because that is just how my brain works sometimes), reverse culture shock is similar to stockholm syndrome: in one you start identifying with a different culture or country and in the other you start identifying with your kidnappers.
ReplyDeleteGetting back on point now, I think that it is fantastic that different cultures use different signals and nonverbal cues. I believe that this ability to utilize language in such a unique way is what sets us apart as humans; it is what makes us special. Both my junior and senior year of highschool my family had the opportunity to host a foreign exchange student from South Korea. I am so grateful we had this opportunity as through it both she and I were able to learn more about the other’s culture. For example, the smiling thing that the video mentioned is not true from what she has told me. She described South Korea as a very modern place similar to the United States in many ways.
-ThreeTwo123
Watching this video, a person who has never been exposed to different cultures or been outside of this country, may view some of the slides egregious because many of the gestures are common and does not have a bad connotation attached to it like in some of the other countries. Culture Shock is especially present today because many people within our country freely express themselves and it’s different from what we’re used to seeing. I was really shocked by the summoning a dog but to that same gesture to a human is grounds for getting arrested. It is something that is so minute that may leave a person feeling very out of place and alienated from other people around him. I was also taken aback by the slide saying you should be an hour late to a dinner party as it’s a sign of greed to be on time; whereas here in America, if someone were that late I would have left and told them we can rearrange it for another day. I think it would be very important to do your research especially if you know that you will be meeting someone from a different country or with different views from yours because it is very easy to offend someone just as it may be very easy to offend someone from the United States as well. Finding out the differences within someone’s culture is so important as well because it expands your mind to think on a completely different level and may cause you to appreciate some of the freedoms and liberties that we have here in America. Although some of the gestures might take me a while to adjust to because it is so second nature to do certain things. Yet and still, culture is our identity, it is who we are individually and collectively. It is important to respect and try to understand why some cultures do the things that they do and why they may react to certain things in the manner that they do. Benoodles123
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