Figuring Foreigners Out was an intriguing article depicting the different communication methods and how it differs across different cultures. The reading showed me how different other cultures could be. For example, nonverbal communication gestures could be totally different things in different countries because of culture. The reading goes into defining different groups of words. Surprisingly, it was very difficult for me to choose one ideology more than the other. I thought that I agreed with both perspectives more often than not.
The first group of words was individualism vs collectivism. From reading the differences in definition for each word, I was able to agree upon having a more individualistic ideology rather than a collective one. This could be due to my love for being independent.
The next words were monochronic vs polychronic. The first ideology said that time is limited while polychronic is the belief that time is limitless and you will always have time in the day to do more stuff. I agree to both sides, but I think that time is limited ensures maximum efficiency of your time. I agree more with the monochronic view.
The next group of words was internal vs external—where internal meant that the future is largely dependent on your effort and your individual mindset, while external meant that the future is largely dependent on external factors, where your life is already predetermined. I 100% believe with the internal view, where if you set a goal, you can do anything you set your mind to do.
The last group of words were indirect vs direct communication—one using inferences and context/body language while direct communication is more actively speaking and confronting others verbally.
In conclusion, I think that the two words in each group are dependent on each other. Both ideals are crucial in culture and language. Without individualism, collectivism would not be possible. I think this reading can be easily connected to my SDLC course, in that Korean culture and language is very different from American culture and language. I should be wary of that when learning the language and be able to see the language in different perspectives to prevent any confusion or unintentionally dissecting the Korean culture.
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