For the most part, I do agree with the reading Figuring Foreigners Out and the Hofstede Dimensions of Culture. The one thing I find to resonate with me the most is the concept of individualism and collectivism. The article described individualist cultures as a culture where people identify more with self and independence and collectivism as one’s role as a part of a larger group. Being in America I can see that the culture here is leaning more towards individuals over groups but back at home it’s the complete opposite. Cambodia is an extremely collectivist culture with a lot of emphasis on love and loyalty over family and community. Since I was a young girl I grew up to have limited privacy and to always think about the consequences my actions might cause to the community. However, no culture is complete leading towards either collectivist or individualist. There are instances in Cambodia where individuals can choose their life path despite their family, especially in the contemporary world.
Another interesting concept is nonverbal communication. I didn’t know most cultures rely on nonverbal behaviors to communicate. I don’t necessarily agree with it because from experience and the culture I grew up in, using gestures to communicate seems to have a negative connotation.
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