英国文化BritCul.pptVIP

* * * * * * * * The Proverbial British Gentleman(principle over pragmatism) The people of London are the most civilized in the world. Their civilization is based on the recognition that all people are imperfect, and due allowances should be made for their imperfections. I have never experienced quite such a sense of balance elsewhere. What is acceptable and what is not acceptable is very well understood by everybody. (American jazz genius, Duke Ellington) MANNERED INDIVIDUALISM CODE OF THE GENTLEMAN Principled behavior (based on higher standards than self-centeredness) Personal integrity Tactful understated Well grounded in the finer things of life Well mannered and groomed A good host EVERYDAY BRITISH FORMALITY Children expected to behave like “little adults” (example: Harry Potter characters) “Proper” grammar even for the lower classes Dress to fit the occasion Good posture Impeccable table manners “Sir” “ma’am” “Cheeky” (uncivilized) Americans THE BRITISH BUSINESS CULTURE 1. Sophisticated wit off-the-wall verbal humor (in contrast to the Germans) 2. Avoid the hard sell marketing glitz (emphasize substance over “sizzle”) 3. “Don’t take business too seriously--it’s not really a profession” 4. The good-ole-boy “kitchen cabinet” (Reflecting British class structure, key executive decisions are often made in a “good ole boy” network of long-time friends who might not even work for the company) THE BRITISH VIEW BUSINESS THE WAY AMERICANS VIEW: Used car salesmen Pawn shops Tele-marketers Casinos Garage sales AM radio WHY STICK WITH THE STATUS QUO? “Because our system is the best! Change compromises perfection.” THE BRITISH CULTURAL LEGACY Institutional imperialism Moral fiber toughness Nationalistic willpower tenacity Playing by the rules Interpersonal formality reserve * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * The Anglo in Anglo/Saxon CHAPTER 4 British Culture PRISMs Is cultural imperialism justifiable? Is personalized or impersonal po