There are many, many redings on the topic of cross-cultural communication. We will introduce the topic at this session and then return to it again and again throughout the semester. I'd like you to be familiar with Geert Hofstede's three decade study of the impact of cultural differences on culture. He identified four "value" dimensions on which countries differ: power distance, uncertainty avoidance, individualism vs collectivism, and masculinity/feminity. Hofstede's work is frequently cited, discussed, described and summarized so I think you will not have problems in finding a suitable reading about it. For the web-addicted, I note a number of items available in this format although perhaps less discursive than those in print.

I found an article intended for new international students at Georgia Tech entitled, Aspects of American society that May be New to You. I think you will find it interesting. (It appears in a handbook for international students as you see from the URL. The handbook as a whole has aspects worthy of discussion -- is there an issue of interest to anyone on the topic of integrating international students) The article should form the focus for some discussion. For example, do you agree with these characterizations? To what extent do these generalizations fit you as an individual? To what degree would you think these statements would be useful generalizations for a new international student? Does the article describe astereotype?

Please find a similar article describing a different culture (not a comparison as in the Hofstede work). Consider to the extent you have knowledge similar kinds of questions to those above. If convenient, please bring a copy of the article to class and be prepared to share.

Please come to the Feb. 5th class prepared to comment on the book you have chosen from the reserve list. By this point you should have also identified an issue that crosses all (or many) countries and might form the focus of one of our sessions in the next few weeks. If you find articles on that issue (or chapters in some of the books on the reserve list or elsewhere), please annotate them for possible recommendations to other members of the class.

Let's also examine the six maps in part two: The Global Economy of your textbook.

Revised 1/28/2001
If you have questions, please contact Evelyn Daniel