Learning Journal #11:

[Jennifer Connerton]

The cultural presentations were very interesting since I was able to learn about many facets of cultures I dis not know very well, such as the Korean culture, the Israeli culture, and the Afghan culture. While listening to the presentations and preparing my own Turkish cultural presentation, I was able to notice many overlaps in cultures that are very different from each other. The overlaps in similarities do not stem from the types of foods or such things but rather from the behavioral patterns. From the cultures that were presented, many of them were collectivist cultures, which favor the well-being of the group compared to personal successes. These are also societies which grant a large amount of importance on the respect for elders, and chastity and modesty of women. This previous example is just one of many overlaps but overall, I would say it was interesting to see how countries found on opposite sides of the world can share so much in common.