Identify and explain interpersonal, collective and/or institutional discrimination.
Our book states, “The behavior that results from stereotyping or prejudice – overt actions to exclude, avoid, or distance oneself from other groups – is called discrimination” (Martin and Nakayama, 2011, pg. 60). Discrimination may be look upon from an interpersonal, collective, and/or institutional approach. “In recent years, interpersonal racism seems to be much more subtle and indirect but still persistent. Institutionalized or collective discrimination – whereby individuals are systematically denied equal participation or rights in informal and formal ways – also persists” (Martin and Nakayama, 2011, pg. 61).
So what does that really mean? In my opinion discrimination is just another way people separate themselves from another class/culture in order to try to prove themselves superior. And as we’ve witnessed throughout history, discrimination has brought hardships and exclusiveness to the world
Interpersonal discrimination differs from collective and/or institutional discrimination solely on the basis that interpersonal discrimination is from a single individual. Institutionalized and/or collective discrimination, on the other hand, is formed and carried out by a group of people.
Sadly, our world is still living with discrimination. Some people/groups may justify their personal discrimination(s) as nothing more than a ‘preference’ but nonetheless it continues to prove itself as unwelcoming of other cultures.
How do the choices we make about popular culture influence the formation of our cultural identity?
As we have learned from our lesson on popular culture, today’s trending forms of our American culture may not be the same tomorrow. Our country is constantly shifting popular cultures from one ‘fad’ to the next. Whether it be the type of television shows we watch, the music we listen to, or the social networking circle we communicate in, our popular culture has spent time focusing on many different forms of entertainment and news throughout the years.
As we (Americans) live in a contemporary world of pop culture, cultures outside of our own may look upon on us in differing eyes. Certain cultures have been very consistent over the years in what they deem acceptable and right and may frown upon our forever changing trends. In their eyes we are forgetting the sacred ways of our forefathers and that is simply unforgivable.
Nevertheless, the American cultural identity is one that we have all become familiar with. We have learned that the people of our culture redirect to new forms of popular activities over time and our cultural identity changes with each shifting. Therefore, we are in a cycle between popular culture and cultural identity. Our culture creates an identity alongside our identity creating a culture.
How might different attitudes toward work lead to intercultural communication conflicts?
Conflict is simply a clash of values. By adding ethnic, geographic and lingual diversities to the clash of values, intercultural conflicts can be tricky within a workplace (Teo, 2006).
Every culture (even person) has their own attitude toward work. Some view work as a source of income and only that. Others see jobs as a source of happiness. And others view the work environment as a place to learn and grow for greater opportunities.
Within any workplace, you’ll almost always find people with one of these differing views. And with these different attitudes, intercultural conflicts tend to occur between co-workers. In these situations, it is best to respect the values and opinions of your co-workers in order to maintain a cohesive environment and minimize the occurrence of conflict.
Describe your plan to become more interculturally savvy in communication.
After taking this course and learning certain techniques, my method to become more interculturally savvy within communication is simple: Practice. I’ve quickly realized that no one will ever be completely perfect at communication, but with practice one can become skilled within the field. The more a person throws themselves into conversations, the more they can listen and learn from the others around them.
I also plan to use the Internet to its full advantage. With free websites and endless information, the Internet is the quickest way to read about other cultures. If I ever learn that I’ll be working with someone of another culture or traveling somewhere exotic, I’ll be sure to do my research before I introduce myself to a new culture. This way I can appear more in tune with others as well as welcoming of their outlooks.
Is it possible for two people to communicate effectively if they don't speak the same language? How?
Of course it is possible. Language barriers are sometimes difficult to understand, but with the use of nonverbal cues and tone afflictions, people are capable to comprehend what their other party is saying.
For example: The movie, “Love Actually” has a storyline in which an American male author (played by Colin Firth) is writing a story while overseas. His house attendant (played by Lucia Moniz) is Portuguese and in the scene, captured below, the two speak with one another in their home languages. (To watch the following clip --> Love Actually: Bilingual Conversation)
As you can see, the two humorously speak about the same things without even knowing it. Then Aurellia (Moniz) begins to act out her question in order for Jamie (Firth) to understand. Ultimately, the two have a successful conversation without having to know the others language.
Overall Feeling About This Class
I feel this class has given me great knowledge regarding intercultural communication. It was a pleasure to work with my classmates and learn from their insight as well. Thank you Mr. Howard for a wonderful class.
References:
Love Actually. Dir. Richard Curtis. Perf. Alan Rickman, et al. 2003.
Martin, Judith N. and Thomas K. Nakayama. Experiencing Intercultural Communication. 4th. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2011.
Teo, Ange. Intercultural Conflict in the Workplace: Every Organization's Nightmare. 13 12 2006. <http://ezinearticles.com/?Intercultural-Conflict-in-the-Workplace:-every-Organizations-Nightmare&id=385503>.
