Barry Is Promoted to a Position in Which He Will

question 23

Multiple Choice

Barry is promoted to a position in which he will be increasingly interacting with people from other cultures. The night before a big meeting with clients from around the world, Barry realizes he has some negative feelings about several cultures, even though he has really interacted with anyone from those cultures. What should Barry do?

• A) request that all participants use English so everyone is on the same wavelength and treated equally
• B) assess his own beliefs so he will treat people from different cultures fairly despite his preconceived notions
• C) avoid asking any questions for clarification so he does not inadvertently offend others
• D) explain to people why he has reservations about their cultures so they will avoid actions he may find offensive

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Definitions:

East Influencing West

The process through which cultural, technological, or philosophical ideas from Eastern societies impact Western societies.

Real Culture

The actual behavior patterns, customs, and norms that characterize the everyday life of a society, as opposed to idealized cultural standards.

Ideal Culture

The values, norms, and behaviors that a culture professes to hold, often representing societal goals rather than actual practices.

Subculture

A group within a larger culture that has its own distinct values, practices, and beliefs.