Chapter 3, pgs. 72-4

• Definition of Cultur
• Cocultures
• Individualistic vs. Collectivistic Cultures.
• High and Low Context Cultures.

Definition of Culture

• Learned core values/beliefs/attitudes of a nationality or large group of peopl

Cocultures (subparts)

• Religion
• e
• Ethnicity & race
• Regional difference
• Gender id/sexual orientatio
• Physical abilities
• Age/generation
• Socioeconomic status

Odd but Different

Individualistic vs.
Collectivistic Cultures

Individualistic Culture

• Like US and Canad
• Value individual rights
• Problem-oriente
• Value democracy, autonomy, assertivenes
• Use competing strategie

Collectivistic Cultures

• Asian c
• Value group culture or group membershi
• Value empathy, listenin
• Prefer avoiding & accomodating strateg
• Less egoistic (put others before self

Americans comfortable talking about own accomplishments vs. Asians are not.
Can cause communication breakdown.

Americans, Canadians, Europeans when asked to give name.

China: "I" = Selfish
Japan: no "I"

High vs.
Low Context Cultures

Low Context=
Individualistic Culture
In your face, direct, clearly spelled out,
speaker's responsible to
be clear through words

High Context=
Collectivistic Culture
Don't rely on words which are brief & indirect. Emphasis on gestures & face.

High Context
Japanese
Not losing face important. Determine meaning from setting, face, background, age, status, etc.