The world is filled with various cultural differences; many of which we can't see, but there are some that are visible. What are some of the cultural differences between our western culture of United States and those of other countries? If we learn about other cultures, can we learn how to be more tolerant of other country's beliefs? Physical culture can tell a lot about a society and what they value.
What are some of the cultural icons that westerner's value?
Croatia and South Africa:
Average home size in America is over 2000 square feet. However, in other counties around the globe, home sizes are much, much smaller. In Croatia and South Africa, the average home size for the general population is about 600 sq ft or less. Often, these seemingly tiny homes fit families of 5 or more. United States seems to want their space.
Average American home >2,000Sqft Average South African/Croatian home < 600Sqft
India:
Henry Ford wanted a car in every home, even the poor homes in America. Since then vehicles have transformed into much more than a vehicle for commuting. For westerners, a vehicle is not just a mode of transportation to and from work. It is also a life of entertainment, and luxury, with off-roading, camping, pulling recreational vehicles. For other countries like India, that is much different. In India, however, personal transportation is primarily on 2 wheels and is typically just for commuting to and from work. Sometimes whole families will be piled onto a single motorcycle. A car manufacturer in India has a new vision, to have the lowest prices car available so that everyone can have one. The cost is approximately $2,500US and is made by Tata Motors and named Nano.
The Nano by Tata Motors
Thailand:
Their king, King Bhumibol, is so revered that people visiting Thailand have been beaten and thrown in jail for disgracing their money which has his face on it.
For example, one man who was displease with service in a restaurant threw his money on the ground and proceeded to walk on it. Another customer saw this, and felt so offended because the King's picture was on it that he beat the first man up.
Another example: A person visiting the country ripped the country's money up in an airport because he was upset. As a result he was arrested and thrown in jail for 6 months.
Henry Ford wanted a car in every home, even the poor homes in America. Since then vehicles have transformed into much more than a vehicle for commuting. For westerners, a vehicle is not just a mode of transportation to and from work. It is also a life of entertainment, and luxury, with off-roading, camping, pulling recreational vehicles. For other countries like India, that is much different. In India, however, personal transportation is primarily on 2 wheels and is typically just for commuting to and from work. Sometimes whole families will be piled onto a single motorcycle. A car manufacturer in India has a new vision, to have the lowest prices car available so that everyone can have one. The cost is approximately $2,500US and is made by Tata Motors and named Nano.
Thailand:
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