NQuinn-HU250-Unit6Assignment
.docx
School
Purdue Global University**We aren't endorsed by this school
Course
HU 250
Subject
Arts & Humanities
Date
Dec 17, 2024
Pages
5
Uploaded by CoachCrane4463
HU-250 Humanities and CultureUNIT 6 ASSIGNMENTNicole Quinn
Part I: Introduction, Continuity, and ChangeThe United States has been my home my whole life and particularly California. I have decided to go on an adventure and am packing my bags and heading to India for a year. In my research there are vast differences between our two cultures. Not only will there be the possibility of a language barrier but a lot of differences for me as a woman also. One thing from my culture that I would like to continue in India is the ability to dress freely but still respecting their culture as well. As a woman there are strict dress rules in India but I also am an American so I am hoping I can have some grace in this area. One cultural dimension that I would like to experience in their festivals and the different religious beliefs and how they express them. I thinklearning about their beliefs would be a good way to understand and fit in more with their culture while I am living there. I am hoping that is will show them I am respectful of what they believe and how they live. Part II: Cross-Cultural Challenge and Problem SolvingI think one of the most challenging things I am going to face will be the lack of individualism and possibly the freedom that I may not have as a woman in some areas of India. India is a society with both collectivistic and Individualist traits. The collectivist side means that there is a high preference for belonging to a larger social framework in which individuals are expected to act for the greater good of one’s defined in-group(s). In such situations, the actions ofthe individual are influenced by various concepts such as the opinion of one’s family, extended family, neighbors, work group, and other such wider social networks that one has some affiliation toward (Hofstede, 2024). This can be a good thing also since they society will work together for a common goal and be there for each other when needed.
I have been here six months now and my parents are coming for a visit. Since they are very conservative Christian people, I think they may have less trouble with the preferred clothingbut more trouble with the fact that they may need to be less combative on their beliefs versus others. I feel like they can solve this problem by just being respectful and allowing others to go about their lives as we enjoy our surroundings and the people here. They may have trouble with the differences in food also. Here in India, you are just expected to eat what you are given. The choices we have in America are vast, but the people here are more simple and do not waste food. I have learned that unless I am allergic, I will try anything to learn more and be caring for the people I am living with. My parents will hopefully follow my lead and I can try to lead them towards foods I think they will like. The flavors here are wonderful and so different than at home. Part III: Cross-Cultural Goal SettingSome of these differences I have faced have helped me to see areas that I thought would not be an issue for me were more of a struggle than I thought. Although I think of myself as a very meek and obedient person, I actually found that I am more outgoing and independent than I thought. I struggle with being told to how to dress or being looked down on if I am showing too much skin. Since India is so hot and humid it is definitely a challenge to dress appropriately but still be comfortable. Skirts have been a big help for sure because you are still covered but gettingsome ventilation. My goal is to continue to be respectful while finding the good balance betweenmy cultural dress and theirs. This can be used in any culture or place of work to make sure you are willing to be flexible in all situations.
Part IV: ConclusionLife in India has been more challenging than I thought. I discovered a lot about myself and my ability to adapt to my environment as well as be firm in areas I felt were important for me. I will take some of their cultural beliefs and of course their wonderful spices back home withme to incorporate into my life. Although my year spent in India was wonderful and I learned so many things, it made me so much more grateful for the freedoms I have at home.
ReferencesHofstede Insights. (n.d.). Compare countries. https://www.hofstede-insights.com/product/compare-countries/Gannon, M. J., & Pillai, R. (2015). Understanding Global Cultures (6th ed.). SAGE Publications,Inc. (US). https://purdueuniversityglobal.vitalsource.com/books/9781483340050Understanding Indian Culture: A Journey Through Time. (2023). Retrieved from World History: https://www.worldhistory.org.uk/asian-cultures-indian-culture