Why Is It Important to Know Other People's Cultures?
What is considered polite can be considered rude in other countries.
Communication is key--and so is cultural awareness. Knowing one's culture can help us understand more of one's behavior. It is also important to know what is considered rude and polite in one's culture.
One of the most common ways to offend another of a different culture is by displaying rude gestures. Have you seen anyone do any of the following gestures? Try to consider the fact that maybe they are doing these gestures because it is considered polite in their culture.
One of the most common ways to offend another of a different culture is by displaying rude gestures. Have you seen anyone do any of the following gestures? Try to consider the fact that maybe they are doing these gestures because it is considered polite in their culture.
Polite Gestures in Different Cultures:
- Slurping: Although it may be considered rude here in the U.S., it is considered good manners to slurp your noodles in some Asian countries, especially Japan.
- Slight Bow: In most Asian countries, a slight bow is preferred over a handshake.
- Eye Contact: It is polite to maintain eye contact in Canada.
- Hugs and Kisses: In Mexico, hugs and kisses are polite gestures; men greet friends with a slight hug while women lightly hug and pretend to kiss on the cheek.
- Raising a fist: Although raising a fist may be a sign of aggression in some countries, raising a fist in Argentina is considered as a sign of victory.
Rude Gestures in Different Cultures:
- "O.K." gesture: Even though the gesture may mean "O.K." in America and U.K., it is considered insulting in Brazil.
- Pointing: Pointing is considered rude in so many countries that it is best to gesture with an open palm.
- Shaking With Your Left Hand: In Middle Eastern countries, it is considered rude to shake with your left hand since it is associated with dirtiness.
- Touching Above the Shoulders: Most Japanese people love their privacy, so it is best not to touch their shoulders, head, or hair.
- Putting Your Hands on Your Lap: Keep your hands on the table in Austria, because putting your hands on your lap is considered rude there.
By being more aware of a culture, your view of a person may change. Hopefully this page changed your view of a person to a more positive one.
Ever experienced anything like this? Have any other gestures that should be listed above? Share your story by posting below.
Ever experienced anything like this? Have any other gestures that should be listed above? Share your story by posting below.
Wow, these stuff are really interesting and helpful, too.
ReplyDeleteWow, thank you so much for commenting! Are there any particular things you're interested in that you would like to read about? Please let us know, and we might be able to give you some more info about it! :)
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