Culture Sudy Guide答案修订版.docVIP

Western Culture Class: Study Guide Introduction to a Study of American Culture -Culture definition: Way of life of a group of people, developed over time and passed down from generation to generation ~ every aspect of human life -Generalization definition: A general statement about another culture and its people. -Cultural pluralism definition:--~ accepting more than one culture Traditional American Values Beliefs -3 values beliefs with 3 prices to pay for each of them Individual Freedom The price for individual freedom is SELF-RELIANCE. Equal Opportunity The price for opportunity is COMPETITION. Material Wealth The price for material wealth is HARD WORK. American Social Customs Behaviors – Choose 5 of these and be able to give 2 descriptions of each. -Introductions/Meeting People [Equality Emphasis – No class structure when people introduce one another. Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss Titles reserved for those in authority – Professors, Medical doctors, police officers. Emphasis on being informal. Use given name: My name is Michael Jones but most people call me Mickey.“]?? -Tipping/Gratuity [Tipping is used in restaurants where waiters or waitresses serve the food. 15% of the check (total bill) is considered best amount. Left on table before paying the cashier. Waiters feels uncomfortable taking money directly from customers. Ok to give tips to barbers, valets, taxi drivers, bartenders, bellhop (between $1-5). ] -Waiting in Line: [Where is waiting in line necessary? What happens if someone cuts line? Necessary when going to the bank, supermarket, post office, etc. Fairness Equality – Cutting in line is a dangerous activity. If youre unsure where to stand – Is this the end of the line? ?Is this the line for..?] -Loudness of Voice [Volume of gathering sets the loudness level – In sports matches and some large restaurants and bars, it is necessary. In theaters, libraries, church worship, playing golf even whisper