On 157 the author immediately notes the growing recognition to the different cultures that are embedded throughout the United States. In addition, it highlights the importance of creating versatile communication to apply to our diverse society (intercultural communication). Exploring the similarities and differences of all cultures is vital in order to gain the maximum potential for knowledge and communication. When meeting an individual from another culture, it is important to exchange information to understand one another, as the book states, "It takes thoughtful communicative engagement to shift from one culture to another" (160).
I love to travel, especially to other countries to experience culture. An essential aspect I have to remind myself is the differing aspects that I may not be accustom to. For example, in certain cultures it is considered bad to look at someone in the eye - which in the United States, is a form of respect. When meeting another individual from another country who doesn't look me in the eye I have to remind myself this is not a norm for where they come from. Communicating and taking time to understand another culture shows is the definition of intercultural communication - without it, there would be misperceptions/judgements about many individuals.
Intercultural communication is interesting because we are so used to communicating within our own culture's norms. Your eye contact example is a great way to frame this topic. It is hard to communicate within one's own norms when talking with someone who you know don't share the same norms. At that point I feel like it is important for both communicators to abandon their cultural expectations, at least in initial conversation, because it seems crazy for both communicators to respect each other's norms perfectly.
ReplyDeleteYour example created a clear understanding of the aspects of intercultural communication. Practices through highlighting the importance of creating versatile communication to apply to our diverse society is crucial when differing communication dialogues. What other intercultural communication practices would promote the “good” of communication? The example the book provides regarding the exchange of information to understand one another, ”it takes thoughtful communicative engagement to shift from one culture to another” (160). Do you agree or disagree that people in all cultures practice the thoughtful exchange of information when meeting another from a different culture? If not, how can we change the way cultures interact with one another?
ReplyDeleteYou mention that your personal experience relates to the course concept of intercultural communication with traveling to different countries to experience culture. I agree that in certain cultures it’s considered rude to look someone in the eye, but in the US it’s regarded as a form of respect. I also agree that it’s important to constantly remind ones self of norms in different countries are different than US customs. Do you think Americans remind themselves of different cultural norms when talking with others from a different country? How can the US be more accommodating to other cultures? How would you teach others to understand intercultural communication?