Cultural Viewpoints

This is an email Josh's aunt sent to us that Josh and I found interesting and entertaining. While it makes very sweeping generalizations, it does highlight some pretty big differences between Eastern and Western cultures. Some things we found humorous, but others are things we've encountered in various ways in our relationship (often when with our families). Although, for some (like 1 and 5) we are flipped and I'm the Asian and he's the Westerner =) Anywho, here you go (from here on, it's all pictures and commentary directly from the email, none of mine).

(1) Opinion

Westerners: Talk to the point.
Asians: Talk around the circle, especially if opinions are different.


(2) Way of Life

Westerners: Individualism, think of himself or herself.
Asians: Enjoy gathering with family and friends, solving their problems, and know each other's business.


(3) Punctuality

Westerners: On time.
Asians: In time.


(4) Contacts Westerners: Contact to related person only.
Asians: Contact everyone everywhere, business very successful.


(5) Anger
Westerners: Show that I am angry.
Asians: I am angry, but still smiling... (Beware!)


(6) Queue when Waiting
Westerners: Queuing in an orderly manner.
Asians: Queuing?! What's that?


(7) Sundays on the Road
Westerners: Enjoy weekend relaxing peacefully.
Asians: Enjoy weekend in crowded places, like going to the mall.


(8) Party

Westerners: Only gather with their own group.
Asians: All focus on the one activity that is hosted by the CEO.


(9) In the Restaurant

Westerners: Talk softly and gently in the restaurant.
Asians: Talk and laugh loudly like they own the restaurant.


(10) Traveling

Westerners: Love sightseeing and enjoy the scenery.
Asians: Taking pictures is the most important; scenery is just for the background.


(11) Handling of Problems

Westerners: Take any steps to solve the problems.
Asians: Try to avoid conflicts, and if can, don't leave any trail.


(12) Three Meals a Day

Westerners: Good meal for once a day is sufficed.
Asians: At least 3 good meals a day.


(13) Transportation

Westerners: Before drove cars, now cycling for environmental protection.
Asians: Before no money and rode a bike, now got money and drive a car


(14) Elderly in Day-to-Day Life

Westerners: When old, there is Snoopy for companionship.
Asians: When old, guarantee will not be lonely, as long as willing to babysit grandkids.


(15) Moods and Weather

Westerners: The logic is: rain is pain.
Asians: More rain, more prosperity.


(16) The Boss

Westerners: The boss is part of the team.
Asians: The boss is a fierce god.


(17) What's Trendy

Westerners: Eat healthy Asian cuisine.
Asians: Eat expensive Western cuisine.


(18) The Child

Westerners: The kid is going to be independent and make his/her own living.
Asians: Slog whole life for the kids, the centre of your life.