Communication in Multicultural Settings

Summary

This video discusses the dynamics of local and global communication within multicultural settings. It highlights the importance of cultural awareness and sensitivity in communication, recognizing the differences in language, attitudes, and cultural practices. The script emphasizes understanding high and low context cultures, gender sensitivity, and the impact of political correctness. It also explores time perception, contrasting sequential and synchronic views, and emotional expression in different cultures. Overall, the video stresses the need for awareness and adaptation in cross-cultural communication to foster respect and understanding.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Local communication is about engaging with members of your local area using a common or local language.
• 🌐 Global communication involves sharing, mobilizing, and relating across geographic, political, social, and cultural divides.
• 🤝 Cultural awareness is recognizing that different cultures have diverse attitudes and outlooks, which are influenced by religion, ethnicity, and nationality.
• 👥 It's important to be mindful of personal assumptions and stereotypes when engaging with people from different cultures.
• 🤔 Cross-cultural communication may cause uncertainty, so it's essential to take time to understand and process information before responding.
• ⚖️ Gender-sensitive language promotes equality by using inclusive words, such as 'chairperson' instead of 'chairman.'
• 🗣️ High-context cultures rely on non-verbal cues and context to convey messages, while low-context cultures prefer explicit, direct communication.
• ⏳ Sequential cultures view time as linear and fast-paced, while synchronic cultures see time as open-ended and flexible.
• 😊 Affective individuals readily show emotions, while neutral individuals control and hide their emotional expressions.
• 📚 Political correctness in language aims to avoid offense and promote fairness by using respectful terms for different groups in society.

Q & A

What is local communication?

Local communication refers to the ability to communicate with people within a specific local area, using either a local language, mother tongue, or a common language shared by the community.

How does global communication differ from local communication?

Global communication involves sharing, relating, and mobilizing across geographic, political, economic, social, and cultural divides. It redefines power and diplomacy, going beyond traditional theories of international relations.

What is cultural awareness, and why is it important?

Cultural awareness is the understanding that there are multiple different cultures based on factors such as religion, ethnicity, and nationality. It is important because it helps individuals communicate effectively and respectfully with people from different cultural backgrounds.

What are some guidelines for developing cultural awareness and sensitivity?

Some guidelines include viewing human differences positively, being aware of one's own ethnic and cultural identity, understanding personal discomfort with cultural differences, reducing stereotypes, and being mindful of how one’s own cultural perspective influences judgments.

What is gender-sensitive language, and why is it significant?

Gender-sensitive language is the use of language that promotes gender equality by addressing men, women, and non-binary individuals as people of equal value and respect. It helps avoid gender bias and promotes inclusivity.

What are some examples of gender-neutral words?

Examples include using 'ancestors' instead of 'forefathers', 'artificial' instead of 'man-made', and 'chairperson' instead of 'chairman'. These words avoid gender bias and promote equality.

What is the concept of political correctness in language?

Political correctness in language refers to using words and expressions that avoid offending or disadvantaging particular social groups. It promotes respectful and inclusive communication.

What are high-context and low-context cultures?

High-context cultures rely on non-verbal cues, tone of voice, and context to convey meaning, often leaving much of the message unstated. Low-context cultures, on the other hand, expect messages to be clear, explicit, and verbally expressed.

What is the difference between sequential and synchronic views of time?

People with a sequential view see time as linear, with a clear beginning and end, and tend to move fast, prioritize productivity, and make decisions quickly. Those with a synchronic view see time as open-ended, considering the past, present, and future, and are more flexible and indecisive in decision-making.

What is the distinction between affective and neutral communication styles?

Affective communication styles are more emotional and expressive, while neutral communication styles are controlled, with people being careful not to show their emotions overtly.