“I knew little about the field [of intercultural communication] at the time [the first edition was written in 1989].” (Storti, The Art of Crossing Cultures, “Preface to the Third Edition,” p. viii).
“Today we are going to the Opera,” said the lady with the red hat. “Oh an evening of culture,” responded her boyfriend, piercingly staring into her eyes, hoping she will change her mind.
Tangible
Food, clothing, art, architecture, music, holidays, etc.
More likely to be formally learned
People tend to identify a culture with its objective aspects
Intangible
Unconsciously shared patterns of thought, behavior and communication
Informally learned
Example of communication
Verbal vs. non-verbal
Variable across space
Between countries
Within countries
Regional differences
Urban vs. rural differences
Religious/Ethnic subcultures
Changeable over time
Personal level
Historical level
Globalization
According to Storti, what are the differences between each type of shock?
What are the different causes of each type of shock?
“Getting used to curry isn’t the same as getting used to people who eat curry,” (Storti, p. 26).
What is the difference between cultural incidents (conflicts) and culture shock?
Differences in food, climate, infrastructure, etc.
Primarily physical reaction
Secondary psychological impact
Differences in subjective culture
Accumulated cultural incidents (conflicts)
Primarily psychological reaction
Secondary physical impact (Storti, p. 22)
*Type 1 vs. *Type 2
Vary with depth of immersion
Travel
Tour group vs. self-arranged travel
Study abroad
American vs. indigenous school
Dorm vs. home stay
Work abroad
American vs. indigenous organization
1. List the subjective cultural conflicts (Type I and Type II) that Claire experienced in "A Typical Morning in Cairo" (pp. 42-49). What differences in values and communication styles caused these particular cases of cultural conflict?
2. If you have lived or studied abroad, provide examples of cultural conflicts from your own experiences. If possible, explain the nature of cultural differences that caused the conflicts.