American Culture versus Pakistani Culture

                                     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.