Reasons for the study
In today's developing society, effective communication and information exchange are vital for daily life, impacting various sectors such as economy, politics, culture, education, science, and technology Communication is essential for fostering interactions; however, challenges often arise due to cultural differences among individuals from diverse backgrounds To communicate successfully and appropriately, it is crucial to understand the cultural context of the participants involved.
Vietnam is striving to accelerate its economy and enhance the living standards of its citizens, particularly following its accession to the World Trade Organization In this context, effective communication, especially in English, is crucial for overcoming challenges in interacting with foreigners However, simply learning English is not sufficient; it is equally important to understand the cultures of other countries to communicate effectively.
This article explores American culture for two main reasons Firstly, the United States embodies a Western culture heavily influenced by European traditions, contrasting sharply with Vietnamese culture, which is rooted in Eastern values By studying American culture, we gain insights into both the cultural dynamics of the U.S and a foundational understanding of Western cultures as a whole.
America significantly influences countries worldwide, including Vietnam As the U.S continues to emerge as a key partner for Vietnam in its dynamic, market-oriented economy, understanding American culture becomes increasingly important.
This article focuses on the cultural values of people, specifically highlighting the contrasts between Vietnamese and American cultural values, acknowledging that it is impossible to cover every aspect of the diverse nature of culture.
Aims of the study
The aims of this study are:
- To give a background knowledge of culture, American culture and Vietnamese culture, from there to understand more about culture of each country
- To show some differences between Vietnamese and American cultural values
- To give some suggestions for Vietnamese to avoid cultural shock in contact with Americans.
Scope of the study
- The study only focus on several salient cultural values with out covering all of the American and Vietnamese cultural onces
- The study tries to find some contrasts between Vietnamese and American cultural values.
Method of the study
- The study refers to both home and foreign publications to set up the theoretical background
- The main method of study is analysis and contrasting
- The considerations, remarks, comment as well as conclusion in the study are based largely on the analysis of the data with due reference to publication.
Design of the study
The thesis includes three main parts:
This part is divided into:
1 The reason of the study
5 Design of the study Part B: Development
Chapter II: Some contrasts between Vietnamese and American cultural values
Chapter III: Some advices for Vietnamese in contacts with American PartC: Conclusion
THEORETICAL BACHGROUND
Culture
Culture encompasses a variety of definitions and significantly influences societal behaviors through shared ideas, values, attitudes, and expected norms It is not genetically inherited and cannot exist independently; rather, it is collectively experienced and transmitted among members of a society.
According to the American Heritage Dictionary, culture encompasses the entirety of socially transmitted behaviors, arts, beliefs, institutions, and other outcomes of human creativity and thought It also refers to the intellectual and artistic endeavors, along with the works that arise from them.
Similarly, in dictionary of English Language and culture (Longman,
1992), culture is described as “the customs, beliefs, art, music and all the other products of human thought made by a particular group of people at a particular time.”
Anthropologists define "culture" as the universal human ability to symbolically classify, codify, and communicate experiences, while sociologists view culture as the comprehensive organization of a way of life that encompasses values, norms, institutions, and artifacts.
Culture is a multifaceted concept that lacks a universally accepted definition, but it fundamentally represents the product of human interactions within society It plays a crucial role in shaping individuals and maintaining social stability and order Transmitted through generations via socialization, culture evolves through human actions and interactions It serves as a powerful medium to express the unique characteristics of a nation and its smaller communities Thus, to gain a deeper understanding of any community, one must thoroughly explore its culture.
Culture has been fulfilling a number of functions which may be divided into two parts One is functions for the individual and other is functions for the group
Culture is what sets humans apart from animals, transforming the human experience by regulating behavior and facilitating social living Without culture, individuals would struggle to navigate their lives independently, leading to a significant waste of energy.
Culture offers solutions to complex situations by establishing behavioral guidelines for challenging circumstances Without culture, individuals would struggle to navigate even the simplest of scenarios It not only defines our preferences but also influences essential aspects of daily life, such as our eating habits, sleep patterns, and social interactions.
Culture shapes our understanding of various situations, offering traditional interpretations that guide our behavior For instance, when a cat crosses one's path, cultural beliefs may lead an individual to postpone their journey, reflecting the influence of cultural norms on decision-making.
Culture plays a crucial role in shaping personality, as children cannot fully develop human qualities without a cultural environment It prepares individuals for social interactions and group life, offering opportunities for personal growth while also establishing boundaries on that development.
(Ajay Bhatt Sociology What are the important functions of culture Retried
April 20,2012, from http://www.preservearticles.com/201101173456/important- functions-of-culture.html)
Culture is essential for maintaining social relationships and plays a crucial role in both individual and group dynamics It equips individuals for communal living, ensuring that group life is enriched rather than harsh and fleeting The strength of group solidarity is fundamentally built upon cultural norms and values.
Secondly, culture has given a new vision to the co-operation of the individuals Culture teaches him to think of himself as a part of the larger whole
It provides him with the concepts of family, state, nation etc and makes possible the coordination and division of labour
Culture fosters new needs and aspirations, such as the pursuit of knowledge, and facilitates their fulfillment Additionally, it addresses the moral and religious interests of the group's members.
In summary, culture is an essential aspect of humanity that shapes individual qualities and influences group dynamics It plays a crucial role in distinguishing and transforming personalities, highlighting its importance in personal and social development.
(Ajay Bhatt Sociology What are the important functions of culture Retried
April 20, 2012, from http://www.preservearticles.com/201101173456/important- functions-of-culture.html)
Social organization creates social structure by organizing its members into small units meeting basic needs
Family is the most important unit of social organization Through the family, children learn how they are expected to act and what to believe
Nuclear family includes wife, husband and children It is typical family us an industrial society Nuclear family does not have to be large to accomplish tasks of living
Extended family is several generations living in a household working and living together including grand parents, aunts and uncles and cousins Respect for elder is strong in extended family
Social class ranks people in order of status, depending on what is important to the culture ( money, job, education, ancestry, etc.)
Customs and traditions are rules of people’s behavior in a society They enforced ideas of right and wrong Often these ideas are part of the culture ‘s written laws
Language is a collection of words and ideas that convey shared meanings within a social context It serves as a gateway to culture, consisting of socially accepted patterns, vocabulary, and sentences that carry specific meanings and terminology unique to that culture.
Language serves as a vital means of communication, enabling individuals to convey messages and share experiences It varies across cultures and is passed down through generations, acting as a vehicle for complex social interactions As the foundation of culture, language is essential for participating in social life Unlike animals, which lack a specific language to share concepts, humans use language to unlock their social existence, characterized by unique traits and behaviors.
Religion encompasses a system of beliefs and practices centered around the supernatural, integrating cultural systems and worldviews that connect humanity to spirituality and moral values Many religions feature narratives, symbols, and sacred histories designed to impart meaning to life and explain the origins of existence Additionally, they often derive their moral and ethical frameworks, religious laws, and preferred lifestyles from their interpretations of the cosmos and human nature.
Religion, distinct from personal faith or belief systems, encompasses public aspects such as organized behaviors, clergy, and defined membership It often involves congregations, regular worship services, and sacred spaces, whether natural or man-made Religious practices may include sermons, festivals, sacrifices, and various cultural expressions like music and dance However, some religions may lack certain structural elements or practices, highlighting the diversity within religious expressions.
York: Oxford University Press p 124 ISBN 978-0-19-285346-2)
Form of government is people from governments to provide for their common needs and protect their society from outside threats
Government is a group of people who hold power in a society At the same time, it is society’s laws and political institutions
Democracy is a society in which people have supreme power, government acts by and with consent
Dictatorship is a society in which rulers or group of people hold power by force It usually relies on military support for power
Economic system is the way how people use limited resources to satisfy their wants and needs
According to Nguyen Thi Van Lam (2011):
Traditional economy is an economic system in which people’s economic role are the same as those of their parents
Market economy is an economic system in which the means of production are owned by private individuals or businesses
Command economy is an economic system in which decisions are made by the government
Mixed economy is an economic system in which individuals make some economic decisions and the government makes others.
American culture
The culture of the United States is a distinct Western culture shaped by European influences, evolving long before the nation’s independence It boasts unique social and cultural traits, including dialects, music, arts, social habits, cuisine, and folklore Today, the U.S is characterized by its ethnic and racial diversity, a result of extensive immigration from various countries throughout its history.
The early cultural influences in America were primarily shaped by English, Scottish, and Irish settlers, with British culture playing a significant role due to colonial ties that introduced the English language, legal system, and various cultural traditions Additionally, contributions from other Western European nations, particularly Germany, France, and Italy, further enriched the cultural landscape of colonial America.
Original elements, including the invention of Jeffersonian Democracy, significantly shape American identity Thomas Jefferson's "Notes on the State of Virginia" stands as a pioneering cultural critique, countering the European view that America's originality was lacking The emergence of domestic ideas, such as national holidays, uniquely American sports, military traditions, and advancements in arts and entertainment, fosters a profound sense of national pride among the population.
American culture is a complex blend of conservative and liberal elements, characterized by military and scientific competitiveness, diverse political structures, and a spirit of risk-taking and free expression While it is anchored by consistent ideological principles such as individualism, egalitarianism, and a belief in freedom and democracy, its vast geographical scale and demographic diversity contribute to a wide array of cultural expressions This adaptability and symbolic richness have led some scholars to view American culture as a mythic identity, while others interpret it as a manifestation of American exceptionalism.
The article highlights the influence of Native American and various ethnic subcultures, particularly African American and Latin American cultures, on contemporary society It emphasizes that many cultural aspects, especially in popular culture, have been disseminated worldwide through modern mass media.
The United States is increasingly viewed as a salad bowl, symbolizing cultural diversity and pluralism rather than a melting pot This shift highlights the presence of numerous integrated yet distinct social subcultures across the nation An individual's cultural affiliations often reflect their social class, political beliefs, and various demographic factors, including religion, occupation, and ethnicity.
The culture of the United States is a rich tapestry woven from its diverse history, people, and traditions It is characterized by a blend of regional influences, with the Northeast known for its urbanization and technology, the Midwest as the agricultural heartland, the South with its complex racial history, and the West embodying dreams of opportunity The U.S is a melting pot of ethnicities, where Anglo-majority influences coexist with significant Hispanic, African American, and Asian populations, contributing to a dynamic social fabric Linguistically, English predominates, but Spanish is widely spoken, highlighting the nation's multiculturalism American symbolism is evident in the flag and sports, reflecting national pride and community values Despite its ideals of equality, social stratification persists, particularly in gender roles and economic disparities The American family structure typically revolves around the nuclear family, yet extended kinship remains vital in many communities Overall, American culture is marked by its evolving identity shaped by immigration, historical events, and social movements.
The nuclear family, typically comprising two parents and their children, is the standard family model in America Upon marriage, couples are expected to establish their own households, separate from their biological families The "ideal" family structure includes a mother, a father, and two or three children, with a clear distinction between blood relatives, who are deemed more significant, and relatives by marriage Generally, nuclear family ties are stronger than those among extended family members While adoption is widely accepted, reproductive technologies that assist infertile and same-sex couples in having children are highly valued, underscoring the cultural emphasis on biological kinship.
Many Americans reject the notion of a "class" society, firmly believing in equal opportunity and economic mobility, as evidenced by popular rags-to-riches stories and the appeal of gambling and lotteries However, research indicates that social mobility is often limited, with working-class individuals frequently remaining in their socioeconomic status In recent years, the wealth of the top 1 percent has surged, while the poorest sectors have seen little to no improvement, highlighting a widening gap between the rich and the poor.
The culture of the United States is a rich tapestry shaped by its history, diverse population, and regional characteristics It is marked by an Anglo majority and a legacy of slavery, with significant social inequalities based on race The country comprises various regions, including the densely populated Northeast, the agricultural Midwest, the historically significant South, and the opportunity-rich West The U.S is geographically vast, featuring diverse landscapes from glaciers in Alaska to deserts in California With a population exceeding 280 million, it is predominantly urban, and the demographic landscape is changing, with increasing Hispanic and Asian communities English is the unofficial language, though Spanish is widely spoken, reflecting the nation's linguistic diversity National symbols, such as the flag, evoke strong feelings of patriotism and are often used in protest Overall, American culture embodies ideals of independence, democracy, and individualism, influenced by both historical and contemporary dynamics.
Every country has its unique social customs, and the United States is no different In American culture, good manners, politeness, and consideration for others are highly valued Generally, Americans maintain an informal approach in their relationships and are typically forgiving of minor social rule violations, as long as the behavior remains respectful This article will focus on key dos and don’ts regarding American customs and traditions.
The United states is an extremely diverse, multicultural society As such, all of the following rules will change depending on the location, setting, and people involved
Avoiding direct eye contact while speaking can be perceived as evasive, unlike in many cultures where maintaining eye contact is considered disrespectful.
It is considered impolite to ask people how much money they earn It is not considered rude to ask someone what he or she does for a living
It is considered impolite not to cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing When someone else sneezes, it is customary to say "Bless you."
(The German word for health, "Gesundheit", is also generally acceptable.) If someone says "Bless you" to you, it is customary to reply with "Thank you."
At an initial introduction, it is considered awkward to ask someone if they are married or have a boyfriend or girlfriend
At an initial introduction, it is considered awkward to ask someone their political views
It is considered impolite to ask a woman how old she is or inquire about her weight
In America, social interactions are generally friendly and informal, but this varies by region; for instance, the South embraces warm greetings like hugs and back pats, while the Northeast tends to favor a more reserved approach, viewing such gestures as excessive Many foreigners mistakenly perceive Americans as superficial due to this friendly demeanor, yet Americans are adept at recognizing the boundaries of relationships, distinguishing between acquaintances and true friends Foreigners who struggle to engage in a relaxed manner may be seen as awkward, aloof, or even rude, highlighting the cultural differences in social interactions.
Standing within arm's length of someone is generally seen as a breach of personal space in American culture, unless you share a close friendship While this behavior may be acceptable in crowded environments, it can still make many Americans feel uncomfortable.
Profane language is prohibited on broadcast television and radio, and is often perceived as unrefined in everyday conversation; however, many individuals frequently incorporate such words into casual discussions.
Vietnamese culture
Vietnam's rich culture, rooted in its agricultural civilization centered around wet rice cultivation, is among the oldest in East Asia, with the ancient Dong Son culture being a significant contributor to its heritage Influenced by centuries of Chinese governance and Confucian ethics, Vietnam is recognized as an integral part of the East Asian Cultural Sphere.
After gaining independence from China in the 10th century, Vietnam embarked on a southward expansion, annexing territories from the Champa civilization in Central Vietnam and parts of the Khmer Empire in southern Vietnam This expansion led to minor regional cultural variations as Vietnam absorbed influences from these diverse groups.
During the French colonial period, Vietnamese culture was significantly influenced by European merchants, leading to the introduction of Catholicism and the adoption of the Latin alphabet Today, Vietnam stands out as the only nation in Indochina that utilizes the Latin alphabet for its national language.
During the socialist era, Vietnam's cultural life was significantly shaped by government-controlled media and socialist programs, which prioritized the promotion of communist nations' cultures, particularly those of the Soviet Union, China, and Cuba, while foreign influences were largely rejected However, since the 1990s, Vietnam has experienced a resurgence of exposure to diverse cultural influences from Asia, Europe, and America, leading to a more vibrant and varied cultural landscape.
Vietnamese culture is defined by key elements such as ancestor veneration, a strong emphasis on family and community values, a rich tradition of handicrafts and manual labor, and a deep commitment to education Significant symbols that represent this culture include dragons, turtles, lotuses, and bamboo.
The family serves as a fundamental institution in society, ensuring its continuity and safeguarding individual members In contrast to the primarily nuclear structure of American families, which often excludes extended relatives, the Vietnamese family system is more intricate Vietnamese families feature a wider array of roles and responsibilities, highlighting the depth of familial connections compared to their American counterparts.
In Vietnamese culture, the family structure is divided into immediate and extended families The immediate family encompasses the husband, wife, their unmarried children, the husband's parents, and the sons' wives and children In contrast, the extended family includes the immediate family along with close relatives who share the same surname and ancestry, often residing in the same community.
The Vietnamese concept of family is intricate, characterized by a complex terminology for kinship that reflects the unique roles and positions of each extended family member In this cultural context, individuals are commonly addressed by their kinship terms rather than their given names, emphasizing the importance of familial relationships in Vietnamese society.
In Vietnamese culture, the father serves as the family leader, yet differs from the traditionally authoritative Chinese father by sharing collective responsibilities with his wife and children This partnership encompasses legal, moral, and spiritual dimensions, emphasizing a more balanced family dynamic.
In Vietnamese family dynamics, the bonds between parents and children, as well as between husbands and wives, are deeply rooted in traditional customs and practices Despite significant influences from Chinese culture and Confucian teachings, these enduring traditions continue to shape familial relationships in Vietnam.
In Vietnamese culture, children view their mothers as equal to their fathers, representing love, selflessness, and sacrifice.
In Vietnamese society, respect is a fundamental sentiment among social group members, especially towards the elderly This reverence stems from the cultural obligation of filial piety, which emphasizes the importance of honoring and loving one's parents and elder family members Vietnamese people view longevity as a sign of virtue and divine favor, with elders serving as vital carriers of tradition, knowledge, and wisdom Regardless of wealth, education, or social status, older individuals are held in high esteem, a sentiment reflected in both attitudes and behaviors, including the use of respectful terms of address Unlike Western cultures that prioritize youth, Vietnamese society values age as an asset, celebrating the wisdom and experience of its older generations.
In Vietnamese society, teachers, regardless of their age, are held in high regard and enjoy significant prestige The relationship between students and teachers mirrors the deep respect a son has for his father's wisdom, along with a father's concern for his child's well-being This respect is also reflected in the way students address their teachers, using the same terms of endearment and respect as they do when speaking to their parents.
Linguistic devices play a crucial role in Vietnamese communication, enabling speakers to maintain face for themselves and others Self-deprecating language is often employed by individuals, while compliments are directed towards others This cultural practice includes indirect communication, such as "beating about the bush" to evade negative responses, and a tendency among Vietnamese students to affirmatively answer their teachers' questions, all reflecting a strong emphasis on preserving face in social interactions.
Vietnamese culture emphasizes practicality, with a strong preference for hearty meals and durable clothing Food plays a central role in daily life, and the Vietnamese diet leans towards vegetarianism, primarily featuring rice and vegetables, often complemented by seafood Boiling is a distinctive cooking method in Vietnam, reflecting a preference for a diverse array of ingredients and flavors While meat and fish have become staple components of meals, traditional accompaniments like pickled eggplant remain a beloved part of the Vietnamese culinary experience.
SOME CONTRASTS BETWEEN VIETNAMESE AND
Culture value patterns
Cultural value patterns serve as fundamental criteria for assessing our behaviors and those of others, shaping our expectations These implicit guidelines influence our motivations, perceptions, interpretations, and communication actions, ultimately guiding our interactions in various contexts.
Cultural values have many functions, however, we only focus on four main functions
Cultural belief and values provide the anchoring points to which we attach meanings and significance to our complex identities
The identity meanings which we acquire within our culture are constructed and sustained through everyday communication
Cultural values provide insight into the reasons behind our behaviors and beliefs Within our own cultural groups, we instinctively understand the motivations for our actions However, when interacting with individuals from different cultures, it becomes essential to articulate the rationale behind our beliefs and behaviors.
Boundary regulation function shapes our in group and out – group attitudes in dealing with people who are culturally dissimilar
In – groups are groups with whom we feel emotionally close and with whom we share an interdependent fate
Out – groups are groups with whom we feel no emotional ties and at times We may experience great psychological distance from them and even fell completive against them
Cultural values or principles facilitate the adoption processes among the self, the cultural community and larger environment
Cultural values form the implicit standards by which we judge appropriate and inappropriate behaviors in a communication
Cultural values play a significant role in shaping behavior, but they do not account for all individual actions within a culture Factors such as family socialization, personal life experiences, popular culture influences, and experiences related to immigration or intergroup interactions uniquely contribute to how individuals form their values in society.
Some contrasts between Vietnamese and American cultural values patterns 32 1 Control of nature and the environment
The Vietnamese perspective on fate intertwines the belief that life events such as marriage, wealth, and social status are predestined, yet not as a random force Instead, they see fate as the expression of Heaven's will, embodying an omniscient, merciful, and just deity This view suggests that one's current fate is a reflection of both personal actions and those of ancestors from previous lives Ultimately, the Vietnamese understanding of fate harmoniously merges Confucian ideas of Heaven's decree with Buddhist concepts of Karma.
In Vietnamese culture, fate is seen as a variable that does not negate individual effort and determination Both misfortune and happiness are transient states; a person facing adversity can change their destiny through hard work, perseverance, and virtuous actions, earning rewards from a higher power Conversely, someone with a favorable fate risks their downfall by leading an unworthy life This belief underscores the principle of cause and effect, where one's happiness or suffering is directly linked to their actions, will, and efforts.
Americans increasingly reject the belief in Fate, viewing those who hold such views as outdated or naive Being labeled "fatalistic" is considered a significant criticism in American culture, implying that a person is superstitious and lacks the initiative to effect change or improvement in their life.
In the United States, it is widely accepted that individuals should exert control over nature and their environment, with a strong belief that personal effort determines one's success rather than luck This mindset encourages Americans to prioritize self-interest and pursue ambitious goals, often pushing the boundaries of what is deemed possible The nation's achievements, such as landing on the moon, exemplify a collective refusal to acknowledge limitations, driving many to take on challenges that much of the world considers unattainable.
In the United States, a strong belief in equality shapes social interactions, as Americans prioritize individual merit over fixed social hierarchies This perspective leads to a general disregard for differences in wealth, age, or social status during interactions, which can surprise visitors from cultures that emphasize deference to higher status individuals Americans often find it perplexing when treated according to perceived social rank in other countries The culture in the U.S promotes equalizing relationships, with a tendency to use first names quickly and frequently, reflecting the belief that everyone has equal rights and opportunities to succeed, despite the reality of social disparities.
In Vietnam, the influence of Confucianism shapes a strong hierarchical structure in both family and workplace settings, emphasizing social order and distinct roles for individuals Respect for hierarchy is deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture, where individuals show deference to their superiors while expecting respect from those they view as their inferiors.
In societal hierarchies, older individuals are often viewed as more esteemed than younger ones, while men are frequently regarded as superior to women Additionally, the wealthy tend to hold a higher status than the poor, and those in prestigious occupations are seen as more important than those in lower-status jobs Within families, decision-making authority typically rests with the head of the household, who is also responsible for approving marriages.
In Vietnam, class and authority provide individuals with a sense of security and certainty, as they are aware of their identity and societal role from birth This understanding of one's place within the intricate social structure offers reassurance to the Vietnamese people.
For official purposes, customs in Vietnam dictate that people generally use the
In Vietnamese culture, addressing individuals often involves using "Mr." or "Ms." followed by their title and first name, along with the respectful term "Thưa," which means 'please.' Family names take precedence, being placed first, followed by middle names and first names Reflecting conservative traditions, public displays of physical contact, especially between the opposite sexes, are generally avoided; instead of handshakes, a slight bow is customary for greetings Occasionally, individuals may join their hands, and it is common for an elder to gently touch a child's head as a sign of affection.
Among diversity culture in the world, American cultures and Asian culture, as Vietnamese culture, are recognized incompatibility Almost
American values emphasize individualism, characterized by the "freedom to do what one wants" (Shain, 1994: xiv), while Vietnamese values prioritize collectivism, highlighting the importance of family allegiance and group responsibilities over individual desires To effectively communicate with Americans, one must understand the principles of individualism, which underpin concepts of equality, privacy, and informality in their lifestyle Conversely, understanding Vietnamese culture requires an appreciation for family values and respect These cultural differences stem from historical contexts, as America's foundation was built by individuals seeking freedom and equality, leading to a society that champions equal opportunities regardless of personal background.
Vietnam, a tropical country with a rich agricultural heritage, emphasizes collectivism over individualism, contrasting sharply with American values In Vietnam, individuals are viewed as integral members of families or groups, where the needs of the collective often take precedence over personal desires This perspective is deeply influenced by Confucian ethics, which prioritize responsibility and commitment to family and community As Althen notes, many Vietnamese children are raised with the belief that their personal destinies are intertwined with serving their family and country, highlighting the cultural significance of group cohesion in Vietnamese society.
In American culture, children learn the importance of making their own decisions and taking responsibility for the consequences of those choices In contrast, Vietnamese children are raised to prioritize obedience to their parents, often making decisions that align with their parents' expectations and fulfilling familial obligations Additionally, Vietnamese children are expected to care for their parents in old age, sometimes at their own expense, while in American families, parents typically support their grown children financially when they live together.
Americans believe that competition enhances individual performance, pushing people to achieve their maximum potential This value is evident from a young age, as children are encouraged to answer questions that their peers may not know, fostering a competitive spirit in homes and classrooms alike While this emphasis on competition may seem unappealing to those from more cooperative cultures, U.S Peace Corps volunteers in developing countries have found the absence of competitiveness in classrooms to be equally troubling They realized that what they considered a universal trait was, in fact, a distinctly American value The American economic system, rooted in free enterprise, reflects this belief, as many citizens assert that a competitive economy leads to greater societal progress This preference for competition permeates various fields, including medicine, the arts, education, and sports, showcasing the widespread acceptance of free enterprise in America.
Vietnamese culture emphasizes cooperation over competition, fostering a peaceful way of living and working The belief that "Better bend than break" reflects their approach to harmony, while the saying "We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools" underscores the importance of unity and collaboration in society.
In Vietnam, collaboration is a key aspect of the work culture, with individuals often working in groups to gather diverse opinions before reaching a conclusion In the event of disagreements, the preference is to negotiate and seek the consensus of the majority, highlighting the importance of collective decision-making in Vietnamese society.