|
|
Culture &
Health Care
As I've watched the American health care debate become more and more inflamed over the past couple
of months, I've been amazed by the increasingly passionate reactions Americans have had. Clearly, the very fact that so many of us are paying
attention, and almost acquiring a Masters degree in health care systems in the process, illustrates how important we believe this to be. But why has
there been such intense emotion around the debate? Why is there screaming and tears at meetings? Obviously, it's personal. Obviously, the discussion
is centered on a potentially massive change. However, American culture tends to embrace change. So, an aversion to risk is probably not the reason
for
such intensity. What else could be triggering such an uproar? Read
more...
|
Wal-Mart Acts
Locally In Brazil
The Wall Street Journal reports that
the recent progress Wal-Mart has made in
Brazil is an important model for companies trying to build relationships in countries that are culturally much
different from their
own. In the past, Wal-Mart assumed its business model, home-grown in the US, was a good fit for international markets. Now, it takes local culture
and
consumption into consideration when retailing its goods and services. Read more...
|
|
|
|
There are many opportunities for young professionals to gain experience in high-level positions
across China, according
to the New York Times. Chinese employers are also quick to hire American graduates because they exhibit many cultural traits that are not
typical in China, e.g. a strong sense of enterprise and initiative. What else do young Americans find attractive about China? Read more...
|
CALL ME OKAASAN: Adventures in Multicultural
Mothering
The Japan Times recently reviewed this new book, edited by Suzanne Kamata. It's an
anthology of stories by mothers who have raised their children across cultures, sometimes as expatriates, sometimes as natives. The stories serve as
helpful, enjoyable reference material for parents raising their families in multicultural and transnational settings. Read the review here.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Issue #17
August 27, 2009
Cultural Reactions to Health Care
Wal-Mart Acts Locally in Brazil
Young Americans in China
Multicultural Motherhood
Culture Links
Culture Tips
Learn about the concept of bella figura and more.
Australia
Humor in this country may be one of the hardest things for a Non-Australian to
understand.
|
|
