Meeting 1

What is culture?

Part 1

Culture is the collective programming of the mind which distinguishes the members
of one group from another. Culture isn’t only intellectual happenings like arts, festivals,
traditional foods, heritages or literature, but refers to the daily lifestyle of the general
population or a group of people or an individual. It also describes the family life and social
life.

 First, by referring to “human-made” it makes it clear that culture is concerned with

non biological parts of human life. such as eating, sleeping, crying,
speech,mechanisms, and fear).
 Second, “subjective” elements of culture elements such as “values, attitudes, beliefs,
orientations, and underlying assumptions prevalent among people in a society.”
 Finally, the definition also calls attention to the importance of language as a symbol
system that allows culture to be transmitted and shared.

Learning culture can be done through:

 Learning culture through proverbs :

In nearly every culture, proverbs communicated in colourful, vivid language, and with very
few words offer an important set of values and beliefs for members of the culture. Proverbs
go by many names (such as maxims, truisms, and sayings), yet they all are intended to carry
the truths and accumulated insights of the culture. Here are some examples of proverbs from
all over the world :

 Strike while the iron is hot and He who hesitates is lost. Both of these proverbs
underscore the idea that, in the United States, people who make quick decisions are
highly valued.
 God gave us the nuts but he doesn’t crack them and What you can do today, don’t
postpone until tomorrow. These two sayings from the German culture reflect the
German notion that people should work hard.
 To know the road ahead, ask those coming back. This proverb from the Chinese
culture is intended to teach the importance of respecting the views of the elderly.
 Fall seven times, stand up eight. This Japanese proverb teaches the value of
persistence and patience.
 “The eyes believe themselves, the ears believe other people.” – German proverb. It
tells to do not trust what others say before you know the truth.
 “A drink precedes a story” Irish proverb. Drunkards are more likely to tell stories or
events that would not normally be said when not drunk.

 Learning culture through Folktales, Legends, and Myths

While the words folktales, legends, and myths have slightly different meanings, we use the
three words interchangeably because they all deal with narratives that are intended to transmit
the important aspects of a culture. They are used in a variety of settings (such as at home, in
school, and at church), at all stages of language development (oral, written, etc.), and at each
stage of life (infancy, childhood, and adulthood).

 Learning Culture through art

It has been suggested that art is a mirror image of a society. Historians and anthropologists
would agree that art is a powerful influence on all cultures. Art even helps explain the “social
elements of culture such as gender, identity and status.

 Learning culture through mass media

This is no more a book about mass media than it is a book about folktales or art.

Culture is shared

The means of transmitting the culture can take a variety of forms (proverbs,
stories, art) and can have numerous “carriers” (family, peers, media, schools,
church), but the key elements of culture (values, ideas, perception) must be
shared by all members of the culture.

 Culture is transmitted from generation to generation

Culture is shared, as we noted in our last characteristic, However, if a culture is to endure, it
must make certain that its crucial messages and elements are not only shared, but are passed
on to future generations.

 Culture is based on symbol

Cultural symbols can take a host of forms, encompassing gestures, dress, objects, flags,
religious icons, and the like. Yet “the most important symbolic aspect of culture is language
using words to represent objects and ideas.”

 Culture is Dynamic
Culture is habitual and deeply rooted in tradition, you can find countless examples where
change is not welcomed and is even greeted with hostility. Since cultures seek to endure, they
often adopt those outside elements that are compatible with their existing values and beliefs,
or that can be modified without causing much disruption.although many aspects of culture are
subject to change, the deep structure of a culture resists major alterations.

 Culture is an integrated system

The nature of language makes it impossible to do otherwise; yet in reality, culture functions
as an integrated whole it is, like communication, systemic.

A. Etymology Of Culture

The origin of culture derives from Latin language cultura which means cultivation. Culture
has correlation with the pattern of human activity. Moreover, it has the symbolic structure
that gives such activities signifinace and importance.
Edward Tylor The British anthropologist gives the definition of culture as the complexs
of system life that have many aspects which includes knowledge, beliefs, arts, morals, law,
custom and any other capacities and habits acquired by man as a member of society.

B. Types and Distinction of Culture

Culture as the system has many dimension to develop it. There are widely characteristic
related with human behavior. George Peter Murdock describes about the seven cultural
pattern of human behavior namely :
a. Cultural originates from human mind
b. The fuction of cultural is to facilitate the interaction between human and their
environment
c. Culture makes human can fulfill and satisfy their basic needs
d. It is cumulatitve and adjust to exchange in external and internal condition
e. It tends a consistent form structure.
f. It can learn and share by all members of the society]
g. This system of culture can be bequeathed into many generation. While the types of
the culture can be divided into many categories such as :
a. Universal culture
It refers to culture of all nationalitis and humans. There are seven categoriez of cultural
universal such as :

1. Language
2. Knowladge System
3. Social Organization
4. Life Tool System
5. Livelihood system
6. Religion system
7. Art

b. Civilization Culture
It refers to particular civilization which comprises different nationalities with similar
political system, economic development,ethnic roots and religious values.
c. Ethnic and Race Culture
In this type, it refers to ethinc and race culture. It has relationship with
language,color,history, religion, descent or heritage or some common origin
d. National and Regional Culture
This culture has relationship with geographical region and it is influenced by the
boundaries of geographical area.
e. Generation Culture
This culture based on the age and the particular generation for instance the generetian
X, millennial generation.
f. Industry and professional Culture
The culture is influenced by the distinction of occupation and industrial organization.
For example the labour class, banking industry.
g. Family Culture
In this type, the culture refers to the family’s structure and cohesion, the role and the
responsibility of family members.
h. Individual Culture
 It refers to the value of individual system in which consists of belief, idea,expectation,
gender, age etc.

The pyramid describes about the conception of the leveling culture. At the lowest levels of
culture is individual culture, characterized by values and standars of the individual. The
second level is shown by organizational family. This level shows the influence of culture
based on the smallest social group or commonly is known by clan. The third level refers to
industry organization. The next level refers to nation. It has relationship with the culture in
which are shared by people with the same nationality. The fifth level reveals with the
civilization. The distinction of culture happens from many factors such as

1. The Geographical Region.

2. Social Contact
3. Religion
Meeting II

Inter-Cultural Communication?

Types of Cultural Communication

What is Inter-Cultural Communication?

“Intercultural communication” is a discipline that studies communication across different

cultures and social groups, or how culture affects communication.

Significance of Intercultural Communication

Need for Intercultural Communication

Globalization” refers to the reduction and removal of barriers between national borders in
order to facilitate the flow of goods, capital, services and labour.
The phrase “multicultural workforce” refers to the changing age, gender, ethnicity, physical
ability, and race, of employees across all types and places of work.

Guidelines for inter-cultural communication

 Speak slowly
 Ask distinct questions
 Take turns
 Be supportive
 Write it down
 Check meanings
 Avoid slangs
 Limit the humor
 Maintain etiquette and do some research
 Be sensitive
 Be attentive to cues

Intercultural communication as a human activity is ancient. Intercultural Communication as

an academic discipline is however relatively new. In this section we will discuss intercultural
communication as an academic discipline:

 Historic overview of the field

 The academic field of intercultural communication
 Studying culture and communication
LANGUAGE—THE CORNERSTONE OF INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION

Differences in culture reflect themselves in a variety of ways. For instance, one cultural norm
may have a significantly different conception of time than another, or a different idea of what
constitutes appropriate body language and personal space when engaged in conversation.
But most researchers, employees, and business owners agree that the most important
element in effective intercultural communication concerns language. "A great deal of
ethnocentrism is centered around language," said John P.

DIVERSITY/INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION POLICIES

In recent years, companies of various shapes, sizes, and in many different fields of endeavor

have embraced programs designed to celebrate diversity and encourage communication

between individuals and groups from different cultural backgrounds.

Intercultural Communication Barriers

A. Stereotype

1. Etymology of Stereotype.

The phenomenon of stereotypes appears in the broader society.

2. Types of Stereotype

The phenomenon of stereotype can appear in many fields. The people will judge another

society based on their appearance. We can divide stereotype into many kinds namely :

1. The stereotype based on the nationality

2. The stereotype based on the race

3. The stereotype based on the religion

4. The stereotype based on the gender

5. The stereotype based on the social status

B. Culture Shock

Culture shock is a feeling of confusion felt by someone visiting a country or place that they
do not know because losing all our familiar signs and symbols of social intercourse. These
signs are cues include the thousand and one ways in which we orient ourselves to the
situations of daily life. Besides language barrier, frustration, anxiety and stress also occur
whenever people can‘t do all the things they are accustomed to doing in their everyday lives.

Culture shock generally moves through four different phases:

 Honeymoon.

 Frustration

 Adjustment

 Acceptance.

Meeting III

LANGUAGE AND COMMUNICATION

Cultural language

Etymology of Language
In Africa, the first archeological remains of anatomically modern humans, Homo sapiens,
have been dated to 130 000 years BP, and the development of behaviorally modern humans
was apparently completed 60 000–40 000 years ago.

Many scholars therefore believe that language emerged not earlier than the completed
development of anatomically modern humans, 120 000–100 000 BP, and not later than the
completed development of behaviorally modern humans, 60 000–40 000 BP.

According to an alternative view, language is primarily a cultural phenomenon and not a

biological one, and explanations of the structure of language should be sought in language
functions and general aspects of human cognition.

Three major function of language

 Language is the primary vehicle of communication;

 Language reflects both the personality of the individual and the culture of his history. In
turn, it helps shape both personality and culture;

 Language makes possible the growth and transmission of culture, the continuity of
societies, and the effective functioning and control of social group.

The relationship between language and culture

It is obvious that language plays a paramount role in developing, elaborating and transmitting
culture and language, enabling us to store meanings and experience to facilitate
communication. The function of scholar language is so important in communication that it is
even exaggerated by some scholars.

For example is referring to the same common domestic animal dog. A great deal of cross-
cultural misunderstanding occurs when the meanings of words in two languages are assumed
to be the same, but actually reflect different cultural patterns. When a Turkish visitor to the
U.S. refused to eat a ―hot dog because it was against his beliefs to eat dog meat.

Communication between cultures

Language is important as the tool of communication. The function of the language is to

ccommunicate the culture in the groups of society. Through the language, the members can
understand each other. There are two main ways of communication there are verbal and non
verbal communication. Both of them have the same function to deliver the message.
Moreover, communication is also as the tool of personal perception. It means that, when we
meet someone in the first time, gathering information about that individual immediately.

The usage and function of communication

 Communications to make an identity

 Communication to make personal perception

 Communication as the interpersonal needs

Verbal Communication Between Culture

In the verbal communication there is the processing of transferring the knowledge, value of
life, information even the norm. Language and culture are component of intercultural
communication. In the verbal communication there is a processing of shaping a language by
the culture. Language allows the dissemination and adoption of culture, while culture gives
rise to and shapes the language.

Functions of Verbal Communication

 Verbal Communication as a Tool of Social Interaction.

 Verbal Communication Expresses of Identity.

Aspects of Verbal Communication

 Source

 Encoding

 Message

 Channel

 Receiver

 Decoding

 Feedback

Non Verbal Communication between Culture

Non verbal communication Is the nonlinguistic transmission of information through visual,
auditory, tactile, and kinesthetic (physical) channels.

There are many function of non verbal communication, namely:

 Expressing Internal States

 Creating Identity

 Subtitution the word

 Repeating the message

 Regulating Interaction

Types of non-verbal communication

 Kinestetic or body language

 Oculistic or commonly known as eye contact

 Proxemics or body distance

 Paralanguage

 Haptic or touch
Meeting VI

Forms of non verbal communication

Four categories of hand gestures

 Emblems:

Emblem are non-verbal cues that have a verbal counterpart. For example, the British sigh for
the victory (forefinger and middle finger erect) symbolizes the letter V, a sign for victory
often seen painted onto house walls during WWII.

 Regulators:

Regulators are non-verbal signs that regulate, modulate and maintain the flow of speech
during a conversation. These can be both kinesics, such as the nodding of a head, as well as
nonkinesics, such as eye movements.

 Illustrator

Illustrators are used more consistently to illustrate what is being said. For example pointing to
something that you are discussing about. It reinforces what you are saying.

 Adaptors

Adaptors include postural changes and other movements at a low level of awareness,
frequently made to feel more comfortable or to perform a specific physical function.

Types of nonverbal communication

 Eye contact

 Facial expression

 Gestures
 Postur and body

 Body language

 Space and distance

 Proximity

 Para-linguistic

 Humor

 Touch

 Silence

 Personal appearance

 Symbol

 Visual comunication

Importance of Nonverbal Communication

The following is a discussion of some key points indicating the significanssity,

benefits, or nonverbal communication:

Well Expression of the Speaker’s Attitude

In a face to face conversation or interview, the speaker’s body language, facial

expression, and other nonverbal indicators can all be crucial in conveyingathe

massages deeper meaning. For example, the speaker’s expression can be read as

attitude, tenacity, depth of knoeladge, etc.

Providing Information Regarding the Sender of The Written Massage

A written message’s format, neatness, language, and envolape’s look all convey

nonverbal information about the writer’s qualifications, preferences, level of

Education.

Expreessing the Attitude of the Listenenr Receiver

Sometimes attitudes, feelings, and thoughts about the messages one

has read or heard are expressed by the listener or reveiver’s look.

Gaining Knowledge about a Class of People

People’s stature, attire, grooming, jewellery, cosmetics, and mannerisms give

away information about their occupation, age, nationality, social standing, and

other factors. For example, it’s simple to recognise students, police officers,

nurses, and other people based on their clothing

Gaining knowledge about the status of a person generally refers to understanding their

current situation or circumstances. This knowledge can encompass various aspects of an

individual's life, including:

 Personal Status

 Social Status

 Economic Status

 Educational or Professional Status

To communicate a common message to a diverse group of people non-verbally, you can

employ various visual and non-verbal cues. The methods :

1. Signage

Use clear and easily understandable signs or symbols that convey the message.

2. Body Language and Gestures

Employ universal gestures or movements that can be easily understood across different
cultures. For instance, a thumbs up or a nod can indicate approval or agreement.

3. Visual Displays or Presentations

Utilize visual aids like charts, graphs, images, or videos to convey information.

4. Color coding

Assign specific meanings to colors and use them consistently. This can be helpful for

categorizing information or indicating different levels of urgency or importance.

5 Animations or Visual Sequences

Use animations or a series of visual cues to illustrate a process or sequence of events.

6. Symbols and Icons

Incorporate universally recognized symbols or icons that represent the message you

want to convey.

7. Silhouettes or Pictograms

Use simplified, outline-style images to represent people, objects, or actions. This

approach is often used in public spaces and transportation systems.

8. Mime or Performance Art

In some cases, employing actors or performers to convey the message through mime or

other forms of non-verbal performance can be effective.

Communicating with handicapped individuals

is essential to ensure inclusivity and accessibility in various aspects of life. It's important to
recognize that people with disabilities can have different needs and preferences when it
comes to communication. Here's a more detailed explanation of this concept:

1. Diverse Disabilities

2. Empathy and Respect

3. Accessible Technology

4. Inclusive Environments
Conveying messages to illiterate

individuals requires special considerations, as these individuals may have limited or no

ability to read or write. Effective communication with illiterate people involves simplifying
and adapting the message to make it accessible and understandable. Here's the methods :

1) Simple Language

2) Visual Aids

3) Storytelling

4) Use of Symbols

5) Interactive Learning

Quick expression of a message

A "quick expression of a message" typically refers to the ability to communicate a

message concisely and effectively, often in a brief and straightforward manner. This skill

is essential in various communication contexts and can be particularly valuable in today's

fast-paced world. Here's a more detailed explanation of this concept:

1. Clarity

2. Relevance

3. Emotion

4. Visual Elements

5. Context Awareness
Meeting V

Cross Cultural Communication for Business

Cross-cultural communication involves conversing, negotiating and exchanging information

either verbally or nonverbally with people who are of different cultures.

For example, in Asian cultures, silence within a conversation is a critical aspect that
demonstrates good listening skills. On the other hand, people from the United States, Brazil
or France view silence as an awkward part of the conversation and attempt to fill it up as
quickly as possible.

The Importance of Cross-Cultural Business Communications

In today’s global business marketplace, the ability to communicate effectively and

multiculturally cannot be underestimated. A successful corporate culture allows for frequent
and effective communication at all levels. Compare that with one that suffers from constant
miscommunications and insufficient understandings, and you’ll quickly see that failures and
frustration add up over time. According to a survey from Fierce, Inc., 86 percent of workers
said that workplace failures happened due to ineffective communication and a lack of
collaboration. As businesses grow and technology makes it easier to work with companies
around the globe, the need for organizations to learn cross-cultural communication has grown
with it. By embracing agility and adaptability, cross-cultural communication in the workplace
allows businesses to work with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and cultures. As a
result, overall communication improves, bonds between coworkers grow, and the company’s
performance reaches greater heights.

Ensuring Business Success

Being well prepared will lead businesses to success during cross-cultural communication. For
example, in French, German and Israeli cultures, disagreements are expressed directly and
forcefully. However, in Brazil or Thailand, the way people disagree is more gentle and subtle.
Understanding these nuances prior to the conversation can help the business succeed when
dealing with other cultures.

Overcoming Cultural Barriers

Language is one of the biggest cross-cultural factors in the workplace. Not everyone conducts
business in English. If working with someone who speaks English as a second language,
some finer elements of the conversation may get lost in translation.

Ethnocentrism

Ethnocentrism is the belief that one’s own cultural group is somehow innately superior to
others. It is deceptive precisely because members of any culture perceive their own behavior
as logical, since that behavior works for them.

Factors Affecting Cross-cultural Business Communication

1. Language

Among the most often cited barriers to conflict-free cross-cultural business communication is
the use of different languages. Language failures between cultures typically fall into three
categories: gross translation problems, subtle distinctions from language to language,
culturally-based variations among, speakers of the same language.

2. Environment and Technology

Culturally-ingrained biases regarding the natural and technological environment can create
communication barriers.