Article response paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Response paper - Article Example The author goes ahead to present a solution that people can use to adjust to new social environments while keeping their own original identity. He introduces the concept of switching cultural codes to acceptable levels that keep everybody happy. The author also gives examples of his students who used his program to integrate to new social contexts successfully. Personal observations/comments concerning how the article relates to previously knowledge. I have always been of the opinion that one cannot depict two sets of culture at the same time. Until I read this article, I believed that if an individual found himself or herself in an environment where cultural norms are in conflict with his or her own, then he or she would either have to stick to his or her culture, or acquire the new one, not keep a balance between the two. From the article, the author has shown how one can nature two conflicting cultures can be natured to exist as one. People can give and acquire new cultural states that do not offend their conscience, or those of the people they interact with by ceding negligible cultural norms. The author talks about Jorg’s situation with small talk, a situation that I can identify with. I have learnt that it is not what others will think about us, but rather what we think others will think of us that makes people reserved. It is up to individuals to make up their minds and decide how to interact with people. The fear of breaking the status quo also works against many people in society, especially when a person is in the minority. Despite her strong academic record in Vietnam, Thao did not have the nerves to speak out her mind because her society made her believe it was wrong. She had rather not â€Å"upset† her colleagues in class with her ideas. She, therefore, could not speak up her mind for fear of causing chaos. This brings out the idea of ‘pleasing’ other people at one’s own expense. The article stresses the importance of being able to express oneself while keeping other people’s ideas in mind, rather than keeping quiet in situations where your contribution could be of considerable help. Excerpts ...they need to do more than learn simple differences in cultural etiquette... This excerpt illustrates the point that just learning about other people’s cultures is not enough if we are to have any meaningful interaction with them. It is important to practice the culture to guarantee healthy relationships. ...some situations pose greater culturally driven psychological and emotional challenges for many students... The excerpt above stresses the diverse effects of cultural differences; not all cultural discrepancies have the same effects on students. Some are extreme, while others are mild. This depends on the individual as well as the environment where the cultural clash occurs. ...so that students can learn from these intense interactions without becoming overwhelmed, I establish a safe c lassroom environment where they can share their experience with their peers... This statement confirms that people get uncomfortable when faced with situations that are in conflict with their cultural norms and beliefs. It is vital for an individual to learn to create personal environments that make him or her to express himself or herself without fear of retribution. Questions 1. What is the most effective way of resolving cultural differen