Journal Entry #3 - Reading Review

[Mark Kligman]

From reading "Understanding Foreigners" I learned a lot about not only the importance of learning a language before applying it , but also of the importance of cultural traditions. From the article i learned that there are habits and traditions that my society accepts and is used to, but at the same time most of those habits and traditions are not accepted or viewed the same way in other cultures. I believe it to be extremely important to know how these basic habits vary in other countries and cultures, especially those where the language I am learning is applicable. In order for me to be able to blend in and be accepted by the country or culture it is necessary for me to know the dos and donts. This is also important because some gestures and vocal habits expressed in my culture are considered almost obscene in others and can lead to altercations, misunderstandings, and insults. Therefore if i want to fully apply my skills in a foreign environment it is necessary to learn about these habits.