Every society has its culture and dynamics within it. Just like we can not chose where to be born, that is how we can not chose the culture we are born in. Ways in which we behave, perceive things, and think are very influenced by the culture we come from.
Cultures are different, but similar groups of people have similar cultures. For example, meeting people from other Slavic cultures, I learned how many similar customs and traditions we have. Of course these are not exactly the same, but the core values within a society are very similar. At the same time, I have experienced that there is a difference between western and eastern cultures. While people in eastern cultures tend to have a stronger collective approach, people in western cultures put a higher emphasise on individualism. However, if we compare North America and Europe, there are many differences within cultures living in each of these areas, and it is impossible and ignorant to generalize.
When interacting with another culture it is hard not to compare it to our own. This is because we are used to things being done in a certain way, and some other ways may seem funny at first. For example, I still do not agree with the American perception of distances - where they chose to drive to a place that takes 20- 30 minutes by walking. But, I understand that is the part of their culture and this is a manner in which they handle things.
One thing I enjoy the most in getting to know other cultures is learning from them. Travelling and meeting people changes my personal culture, because I like to adopt certain parts of a different culture that I think will make me a better person, or I believe make more sense. That is why I try to be very polite and kind when talking to people back home. As the article discusses, Americans are sometimes 'accused' for being too polite, but I that there is nothing wrong about that. At the same time I do understand why is not a part of my culture, but I like the habit so I
One thing I enjoy the most in getting to know other cultures is learning from them. Travelling and meeting people changes my personal culture, because I like to adopt certain parts of a different culture that I think will make me a better person, or I believe make more sense. That is why I try to be very polite and kind when talking to people back home. As the article discusses, Americans are sometimes 'accused' for being too polite, but I that there is nothing wrong about that. At the same time I do understand why is not a part of my culture, but I like the habit so I
spontaneously adopted it.
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