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In China last week, President Obama used a combination of diplomatic finesse and technological know-how to invite a question from an online viewer via Twitter regarding China's "great firewall," or its strict internet censorship policies (click here to read about it in the New York Times). His indirect communication style helped him to convey the message in a subtle way, which appeased his young audience without offending China's leaders. "Face" is one of the most important cultural concepts in Asia, and President Obama successfully avoided damaging his Chinese counterpart's "face" while addressing an important, sensitive topic. Read an opinion piece in the South China Morning Post that highlights Obama's non-confrontational and culturally sensitive approach to Asia.
Click here to watch CCTV's (China Central Television) coverage of President Obama's arrival to the Chinese capital and initial meeting with President Hu Jintao. We found it interesting that the broadcaster in this clip emphasized how he shortened his stay in Japan and South Korea, but did not change his schedule in China. What kind of culturally-rooted communication style is this broadcaster using, and what is he implying? What other thoughts do you have about the tour in Asia? Since cultural understanding is crucial to international relations, we are offering our next Pocket Guide in the series, which is on China. If you'd like to receive it, please click here.
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Linguistic Death
In a World Affairs essay, a linguistics professor writes on the gradual extinction of hundreds of the worlds languages over the next 100 years. He attributes globalization to this death and argues that it won't result in "cultural oblivion." With a modicum of controversy, he asks if English is such a bad language for a modern lingua franca. Click here to read some of the essay's highlights.
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In Mobility magazine, an expert writes on the cultural perceptions of health care in both countries. For example, Americans learn from an early age that health care must be earned individually, while Brits consider health care a universal human right. Click here to find out what else sets apart the US and UK on this hot topic. The two countries are usually, and perhaps mistakenly, seen as close cousins.
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As in China, CEO Indra Nooyi has expressed that they will be searching for the best ways to permeate the Indian market through its culture by understanding how culture affects the way Indians shop for products. Click here to read more.
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An Economist article about a lighter argument on the origins of the chickpea and tahini paste that is so prized around the world. Click here to read more.
Due to client requests, we have increased our coverage in CultureWizard's online Country Profiles. We have recently added the following countries: Cote d'Ivoire • Gambia • Guinea • Laos
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Issue #20
November 23, 2009
I. China's Internet and the US President
II. Linguistic Death
III. UK and US Health Care
IV. Indian Solutions for PepsiCo
Culture Links
Culture Tips
Officially known as the Republic of Korea, South Korea is home to approximately 48 million people
This country is an interesting blend of European sophistication and Latin American passion
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