The differences between Chinese culture and American
culture
As we all know that the differences between Chinese culture and American culture
are distinct. As the globalization is developing quickly and we are living in a multicultural world, it is important and necessary for us to recognize the differences
so we can understand each other and avoid accidently insulting someone or embarrassing yourself. According to my knowledge, there are mainly four aspects of
differences.
First of all, the most apparent difference is the characteristics. The Chinese people tend to be conservative, modest, introvert and inactive. They put more emphasis on harmony and like common and stable life; while the American people are more open- minded, extrovert, confident and active. They like changeable life and like to try new things such as adventures and inventions. Therefore, Chinese seldom show their feelings towards the one they love in public and they also rarely say “I love you” to their love ones even in private. To the contrary, Americans are free to show their love such as giving a hug and kiss as greeting. The reason is that Chinese emphasize on ethical principle, morality and community while the Americans focus on freedom, democracy and individual.
Another difference is about the family. Chinese family structure is complicated, especially the traditional family which is three or four generations living together. Family members have close relationships for they depend on each other and help each other. And usually the younger generation will show respect and filial piety to the elder, but this is not good for the young people to cultivate independence. American family structure is simple: parents and minor children. When the children are at the age of 18, their parents will encourage them to support themselves, such as working to earn their tuition and living expenses, exercising them to become independent adult to adapt to the society. Correspondingly, Americans have strong sense of equality, whether rich or poor, young or old, everyone will respect themselves and others.
The difference of family structure also leads to the different attitude towards the society. Americans stress individual rights and the law. Everyone should obey the law and no one is exception. While in China it is promoting the Confucian tradition, which stresses a sense of hierarchy and obligation. So personal relationship is more important in China. And most of the Chinese people count on friends or relatives rather than obeying the rules or law, which will sometimes contribute to bribery and corruption among the officials.
If we look deeply under the surface, we will find out that the fundamental difference is the way of thinking. Chinese tend to be more intuitive and emotion- oriented. For example, they rely on traditional experience and visual thinking style; while the Americans are more rational and logical, so they believe in reason and demonstration. Sometimes people may think they are a bit inhumanly in court for they follow the law strictly.
To sum up, culture differences between China and America are complex and covering a broad range of phenomena. If we know more about each other’s culture and realize the differences, we can communicate with each other better, avoid the misunderstandings, prevent the conflicts and promote the relationship with each other.