Chapter 9 Blog Post

I found this chapter of intercultural communication ethics to be the most relevant in general terms as we are increasingly becoming exposed to many different types of cultures. One of my favorite lines from this chapter states, “We can no longer assume commonality; difference is the norm” (p. 158). This seems to be the recent reality now as many different types of cultures have become meshed into smaller areas. For example, I work in the banquet department at a top hotel where I can name 10+ different cultures working together in that department alone. As this demonstrates great diversity, it has also unfortunately caused some miscommunication that fortunately and eventually resolved itself. This reinforces “The power and force of difference in such places reminds us of the importance and the difficulty of difference” (p. 158). I believe that there will always be some level of difficulty in situations concerning common spaces becoming occupied by a diverse group of cultures. However, I also believe that it is important for everyone to maintain some level of adaptability in any context.

I would like to touch on an example that the book gave. The book states that one of the authors suggested “that coming to class on time is a necessary good if one is to succeed” (p. 160). Yet, a particular student (from a different culture than said author) would frequently show up to class late because he was helping someone within his community and his reasoning was based on the importance to the success of his culture. Now, my challenge to that is, is there a point where culture can become considered an excuse for certain behavior? Because we are “supposed” to be (or ethically mindful) accepting of difference? I comprehend the value of cultural difference, however, when it is a behavior that may interrupt class (like a frequently late arrival), what should be done about that? What’s good for one culture may not be good for another, so where is the line drawn within the intercultural communication ethic in this case?