Exploring Cultural Customs Around the World

Introduction

Understanding the customs of different cultures is an important part of being a global citizen. Customs are defined as “the established form of ceremonies, observances, or behavior followed by a particular group or community” (Merriam-Webster Dictionary, 2020). These customs can include traditions, beliefs, and practices that have been passed down from generation to generation. By learning about customs in other cultures, we gain a better understanding of those cultures and become more open-minded and accepting of people who come from different backgrounds.

Interview a Local Expert on Cultural Customs

The best way to learn about cultural customs is to talk to someone who has firsthand experience with them. Identifying and researching a local expert on cultural customs can help you gain insight into the customs of that culture. For example, if you were interested in learning more about the customs of the Japanese culture, you could reach out to a Japanese professor at a nearby university or a local Japanese community leader. Once you have identified a local expert, there are several strategies you can use to conduct the interview.

First, it is important to prepare a list of questions ahead of time. This will ensure that the conversation stays focused and on-topic. Additionally, make sure to ask open-ended questions that require more than a yes or no answer. This will encourage your interviewee to provide more detailed and insightful responses. Finally, be sure to listen attentively and respectfully to the answers provided. This will show your interviewee that you are genuinely interested in their opinions and experiences.

Through conversations with local experts, you can gain valuable insight into the customs of a particular culture. For example, when I interviewed a local Japanese professor, I learned about the importance of honoring one’s elders in the Japanese culture and the significance of certain rituals during weddings and funerals. By asking questions and listening attentively, I was able to gain a deeper understanding of the customs of the Japanese culture.

Research and Write about a Specific Culture’s Customs

In addition to talking to a local expert, you can also research and write about a specific culture’s customs. This can be done through books, articles, and other sources. When selecting a culture to research, consider factors such as its history, geography, and population. This will give you a better understanding of the culture and its customs.

Once you have selected a culture, explore the customs of that culture. This can include researching traditional festivals, religious practices, and social etiquette. Additionally, compare and contrast the customs of that culture to those of other cultures. This will give you a better understanding of how customs differ between cultures. For example, while attending a wedding in India may involve elaborate rituals and ceremonies, attending a wedding in the United States might involve simpler traditions, such as cutting the cake and throwing the bouquet.

Write an Article Summarizing Customs of Different Cultures

Writing an article summarizing customs of different cultures is another great way to explore customs. Begin by selecting various cultures to compare and contrast. Then, summarize common customs across cultures. For example, many cultures celebrate holidays and special occasions with traditional foods and rituals. Additionally, examine unique customs of each culture. For instance, some cultures may practice arranged marriages while others may practice more individualistic approaches to marriage.

Create a Historical Timeline of the Evolution of Customs in a Particular Culture

Creating a historical timeline of the evolution of customs in a particular culture is a great way to learn more about how customs have changed over time. First, choose a particular culture to focus on. Then, research the customs of that culture throughout time. Consider how the customs of that culture have evolved due to changes in religion, politics, technology, and other factors. Finally, create a timeline of the evolution of customs in that culture. This will give you a better understanding of the culture and how it has changed over time.

Share Stories from People Who Have Experienced Customs in a Foreign Culture

Sharing stories from people who have experienced customs in a foreign culture is another great way to learn more about customs. Begin by locating people who have traveled to another country and experienced the customs of that culture. Ask them to share their stories and insights on the customs they encountered. Identify themes among these stories and consider how the customs of that culture impacted the lives of those people. For example, one person may have encountered a custom that was unfamiliar to them but ultimately opened their eyes to a new perspective.

Compare and Contrast Customs Between Two Cultures

Comparing and contrasting customs between two cultures is another strategy for exploring customs. Begin by selecting two cultures to compare and contrast. Analyze similarities and differences between the customs of the two cultures. Consider how customs vary between the two cultures and why this might be. For example, some cultures may place greater emphasis on education than others. Understanding these differences can help us gain a better appreciation for the customs of other cultures.

Conclusion

Exploring the customs of different cultures is essential for becoming a global citizen. Through conversations with local experts, research, writing, and story sharing, we can gain a better understanding of customs in other cultures. Additionally, comparing and contrasting customs between two cultures can help us appreciate the uniqueness of each culture. By learning about customs in other cultures, we can become more open-minded and accepting of people from different backgrounds.

For further resources on exploring customs in other cultures, please visit Culture Crossing, Every Culture, and National Geographic.