Unit Two Virtual LectureCommunication and Culture

What is Culture?• Culture is the language, values, beliefs

and customs people share and learn. (Samovar and Porter, 2004)

• Culture influences your beliefs, values, and world views, and is reflected in your language, non-verbal behavior and how you relate to others.

What is Intercultural Communication?• Intercultural communication is the

process that occurs when members of two or more cultures exchange messages in a manner that is influenced by their different cultural perceptions and symbol systems, both verbal and non-verbal (Samovar & Porter,

2004)

Concept of Subculture (Co-culture)

• Subcultures or Co-cultures are groups which exists which are slightly different from the dominant culture which can tend to exhibit certain characteristics of their own.

Why is Intercultural Communication Important?

• The world is now a global village

• New technologies

• Economic Integration

• Social Dynamics

Cultural Values and Norms• High Versus Low Context Cultures

• Individualism vs. Collectivism

• Power Distance

• Achievement vs. Nurturing

• Uncertainty Avoidance

Language and Identity• Verbal Codes

• Verbal Communication styles

• Non verbal differences

• Idioms and translations

• Patterns of Thought

Developing Intercultural Communication

• The Motivation to Understand, with a

positive attitude

• Tolerance towards ambiguity

• Open Mindedness

• Knowledge and willingness to understand