As a young individual, I had the opportunity to visit India. Indian culture is one that is quite different from American one. I was able to see the different building blocks of the culture as I interacted with Indians. The building blocks of a culture are the norms, values, language, and beliefs. The essay will focus on the different building blocks of Indian culture, how it compares to American culture, and finally, reflect on my reaction towards the culture as well as what helped me to adapt.
Building Blocks of Indian Culture
In Indian culture, there are several norms. They can live as an extended family. Another common norm is they communicate using gestures. For instance, Indians like to shake their head when talking, which can be confusing for individuals that are not accustomed to the culture. Respect is a value that Indians are taught from a very young age. Adults and the elderly are the most respected in society. One can assume that Indians speak the same language. However, they have many tongues that they speak because of the different tribes in Indian culture. Indians are very religious individuals. They have many temples that are used to pray and other religious practices. In Indian culture, they believe in many gods and they do not just pray to one god. Individuals have status, and it varies from one person or family to another. There is a caste system that has existed for centuries. Brahmins are at the top of the caste system. Brahmins are usually traditional priests or teachers and form a small part of the population.
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Comparison with American Culture
There are many differences and similarities between Indians and my culture as a Caucasian American. Living as extended families is not common, and the family system is unclear, unlike in India. Communication is also direct, mostly verbally. Similar to Indian culture, respect is a value that is highly considered. The elderly and adults are respected in society, which is evident in how veterans are treated in American society. In the American context, different languages are used. However, unlike Indians, English is the most common language that is used among Americans from different backgrounds. Indians have substantial religious beliefs. They have many gods who play different roles in their well-being. In American culture, religion also plays a significant role. The two main religions are Muslims and Christianity, and both serve a single God. Status in American society is mainly associated with wealth, and the wealthier one is, the higher in society he or she is placed. Politics is also associated with status.
Reflection
I find Indians very interesting, and their culture is richer than mine. Thus, one is always learning every day, and I do not believe one can understand the whole culture without full interaction. It is curiosity and familiarizing myself with the culture that made me adapt to it. The willingness to understand and interact in a manner that an Indian can relate to was crucial for me. It is an exciting culture because of the different aspects of language and religious beliefs; it is a complex culture to adapt to quickly. Overall, interaction with Indian culture was eye-opening on how different cultures can be but still have some similarities. Understanding and familiarizing one with a different culture can be vital if one wants to have positive outcomes while interacting with another culture.
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