These are just some of the concepts covered in class last week, some of which I found familiar while others are completely new to me. Even though they may risk the problems of over-generalizing people within a cultural group and encouraging stereotypic thinking, I felt that these terms provide a fair over-arching view of behavioral patterns across cultural groups.

They may be looking at different aspects and subsequently creating arbitrary divisions among various cultures, but Hofstede and Hall (and many other prominent researchers in this field) seem to be repeatedly pointing out one thing: there appear to be fundamental differences in the way cultural groups perceive, think, feel and behave.

It's almost like we're different people from different worlds.

And it's not surprising at all, given each nation's distinct historical backgrounds, cultural practices, social norms and the idiosyncratic behaviors of their citizens. These are self-perpetuating habits which are unlikely to be eliminated by globalization. Sure, we may be increasingly subjected to Western influences, but I'm very certain that they won't replace or drastically alter the characteristics which contribute to the true essence of Singapore culture.

Given that cultural groups are different, it would make sense to argue that the distinction between normality and deviancy is pretty much dependent on the context. A person's action may be labelled as 'abnormal' and 'inappropriate' in a collectivistic nation, but he or she might fit in better in an individualistic country instead.

There's no absolute right or wrong, normal or abnormal. It really depends on the situation, isn't it?

I guess the best we can do is to try and find out as much as we can about a particular cultural group, and take note of the appropriate behavior/communication methods when interacting with members of that cultural group.

Understanding and respect can go a long way. =)

That being said, I really admire cross-cultural couples who manage to have long-lasting relationships. Imagine the extra amounts of patience and effort required from each one of them!