It is quite interesting to learn about cultures. I wanted to share something about US culture and compare it to the culture of Pakistan. Pakistan is a developing country of South Asia while the United States of America is a developed country in the other corner of the World. They have two different cultures and very few similarities.
First of all, In the United States of America people are more individualistic and independent whereas in Pakistan, society is more collectivistic and interdependent. In Pakistan when you are making a decision you take into consideration your family, friends and community. You might have a best decision in your self-interest, but if your family or close friends are not happy with the decision, you might give up. However, in United States you can go for what you think is best for you.
Furthermore, meal etiquette, or table manners, is different. In America people use forks, knives and spoon during meals. People use dining tables. In Pakistan using fingers is common and usually all family members or friends sit together on the floor for meal. Although this trend is changing in the major cities but laying a table cloth, Dastar’Khawn, on the floor for meal is famous in towns and villages.
Third, time is highly valued in America. One is supposed to meet the deadlines and schedule routine matters. In Pakistan people take life easy in general. It is OK if you are 15-20 minutes late for a meeting, ceremony or party. People are more direct and timely when it comes to communication in the United States, while in Pakistan people are context oriented and search for clues.
The other thing I learned was something about dating. Dating is a part of US culture. If a man likes a lady they usually start dating and may get into a relationship. This relationship usually leads to romance and marriage. However, in Pakistan dating is considered taboo due to social disapproval as well as religious restrictions. The decision to marry is taken after consulting parents. The approval of family and close relatives is a major step for a couple to get married.
There are few similarities between US culture and Pakistani culture. The people of both nations love music. People listen to music and dance to it in both countries. Same is the case with sports. In America young people are very enthusiastic about sports like baseball, basketball and rugby. In Pakistan people get really excited about cricket and hockey.
Both in America and Pakistan, people respect their elders. It is considered rude to interrupt while they are talking to each other. Hugging each other is common among friends in both countries. In Pakistan men hug each other and handshake while ladies kiss each other on cheeks as well.
The cultures of America and Pakistan are quite different and there are a few similarities. The information I shared is not based on some extensive research or for any academic purpose. It is a general observation of everyday life in United States. I am trying to learn more about US culture during my stay here.
I came upon your site doing research on Pakistani culture for a class I am taking. As an American, I enjoyed reading your perspective on my culture. I read your other posts and I think you are an excellent writer.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Traci. I'm so sorry i'm getting back to reply to this after so long as i was stuck on a few things. I hope your research did go well. I would love to hear more on the research.
DeleteThanks, this helps. Our new neighbors are from Pakistan. They're very distant, quiet,make no effort to know us. The eldest speaks no English. I don't he understands me. The working younger couple rarely are seen outside. Just the man. The women I've seen once in 2 months, a medical professional. Kids seen twice outside in a month, just when I think the house is abandoned, someone leave the house; they always park their cars in the garage, so you never see who gets out
ReplyDeleteAll Pakistani's are not just like them. I wish you meet Pushtoons also called Pakhtoons are so civilized and care about neighbours. You search Shahid Afridi which is famous for the name Afridi. You'll love him.
DeleteJames, i guess they are new to place. I know i'm getting back to reply to this after so long gap as i was busy with few projects. I would be interested to know how are you doing now and have you seen a change in your neighbors overtime ?
DeleteTHIS BLOG IS MUCH HELPFUL TO ME BECAUSE I AM GOING TO USA FOR ONE WHOLE ACADEMIC YEARS FOR STUDYING THROUGH AN EXCHANGE PROGRAM MAY THIS INFORMATION IS MORE EFFECTIVE TO ME.....
ReplyDeleteHi Crystal Soundz :) Thanks. So did you go to the US ? How did it go ? I'm looking forward to hear on your experience.
DeleteBrar zbrdst noshesus maza arer.
ReplyDeleteThanks brar
DeleteWhat advice would you give an American getting to know a Pakistani man over Facebook's messenger. He seems like a very nice man but I don't know much about your culture. I would really appreciate your perspective.
ReplyDeleteHi Tracy, i'm so sorry i missed this comment and it is very late to reply to this. But i'm interested to know how did it go with the person you were talking about. You can email me if you want to talk about this @atta8082@gmail.com
Deletethanks for such a nice perspective.
ReplyDeleteMy pleasure, Unknown :) Thanks, for reading.
ReplyDeletegood
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