10/24/2017; Lesson 07: Response to "Differences in Manners".

DIFFERENCES IN MANNERS

      Professor Ivers taught us about the importance of to be aware of the cultural differences in manners around the world. We live in a globalized world, therefore there is a great chance of interact with people from other cultures where things happen in a different way. As for instance, here in Brazil most of the people greet each other with a kiss on a cheek, even if is the first time they are talking. On the other hand, Asian countries do not have similar physical contact. In some cultures, we should not keep our arms on the table during the meal, and in others, belching will be a sign that you really enjoyed the meal.

      Mary M. Mitchell describes her friend experience with differences in manners in her article "Modern Etiquette: Different cultures have different greetings" (https://www.reuters.com/article/us-etiquette-olympics-cultures/modern-etiquette-different-cultures-have-different-greetings-idUSBRE87519320120806). According to Mary, Gabi Cipollone was impressed by cultural diversity that she witnessed during the Moscow Olympic Games. Mary concluded that to Gabi it was an adventure to meet new people from other nations.

Nowadays, with all technology that we have in our hands, there are no excuses to do not try to know the people that we will interact and this way to avoid misunderstandings and disrespect to others and their culture.