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Cultural Differences

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Christine Isabel Z.

Rey
11 HUMSS

CULTURE DIFFERENCES IN EVERY ONE OF US

Culture is part of each of us; its characteristics are defined by a combination of multiple factors such as
language, religion, places, people, lifestyle, etc. People in different societies have different cultures; sometimes they can
be significantly different, but they can also have similarities. We are all surrounded by people of different backgrounds,
religions, and cultures. This expands our knowledge, and by being surrounded by different cultures, it allows us to think
with an open mind, accepting our differences but also celebrating our similarities. Some of us might have a greater
knowledge of this subject; some of us have lived in a mix of cultures. People who have emigrated from a different
country know how different cultures can be. I believe every one of us has at some point seen the differences between
cultures; some might know little about them, but at least everyone can be identified with their own culture. Knowing
who we are and what our culture represents is important, but it is also important to expand our knowledge of the
cultures of the people that surround us because we are in a diverse world where millions of people live differently, and it
might surprise us how different but also how similar we all are. Showing how culture is important to every one of us, this
tells us how greatly a simple culture difference can affect each of us.

Cultural differences refer to having various beliefs, behaviors, languages, practices, and expressions considered
unique to members of a specific ethnicity, race, or national origin. Affecting us in many ways. Social interaction is one of
the aspects that has been greatly influenced by cultural differences, as this affects how people communicate and build
relationships through behavioral and personality differences like body language, gestures, mindsets, communication,
manners, and norms, which may lead to miscommunication. Eye contact, for example, is very important in some
cultures but rude and disrespectful in others. It can also affect how people behave in different situations and how they
interpret others' behavior in such situations. Moreover, cultural views bring about racial differences that deteriorate the
relationship between diverse races. This includes differences in language, ethnocentrism, stereotypes, and prejudice. For
example, some whites view themselves as superior to blacks. Essentially, the relationship between these two races
deteriorates due to this cultural view. Though it is hard to overcome our differences, they can still be addressed and
communicated effectively by being more culturally sensitive. Cultural sensitivity refers to the awareness of
commonalities and variations in people's cultures without labeling them as desirable or undesirable. Being culturally
sensitive requires understanding that the similarities and variations among people impact their behaviors, perceptions,
and values. This enables a person to adjust behaviors to be on par with people from a different culture. Cultural
sensitivity is critical, as it helps people break down cultural barriers and understand ways in which they can appreciate
people who are different from them. This helps people with different cultural backgrounds relate well. Cultural
sensitivity helps a person understand how the receiver may interpret their words. Hence, one can know how to
communicate effectively and avoid words that can cause misunderstandings.

Cultural differences affect us more than we could ever know. People with different cultural backgrounds
communicate using different styles. Their language, words, gestures, and phrases may differ even in their application.
Culture also shapes people's attitudes in times of conflict. While conflict is acceptable in some cultures, it is considered
undesirable in others. People from different cultures also have different approaches to delivering and inquiring about
information. Certain words or topics may be considered taboo in one culture but acceptable in another. Our culture
shapes the way we work and play, and it makes a difference in how we view ourselves and others. It affects our values
and what we consider right and wrong. This is how the society we live in influences our choices. But our choices can also
influence others and ultimately help shape our society.

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