Reasons for the study
In a developing society, effective communication and information exchange are essential for success across all sectors, including economy, politics, culture, education, science, and technology As a vital part of daily life, human interaction relies on understanding and conveying information clearly However, cross-cultural communication often faces challenges due to cultural differences, making it crucial to understand participants' cultural backgrounds Recognizing these differences helps interpret actions accurately and ensures successful and appropriate communication in our increasingly interconnected world.
Vietnam is striving to accelerate its economic growth and improve living standards, especially after joining the World Trade Organization, which has increased the importance of effective communication While learning English fluently is essential, it is not sufficient on its own; understanding the cultures of foreign countries is also crucial for successful international communication Developing language skills alongside cultural awareness enables Vietnam to overcome challenges in engaging with global partners and fosters smoother international relations.
This article explores American culture for two main reasons Firstly, the culture of the United States is a Western culture heavily influenced by European traditions, making it distinct from Vietnamese culture, which is an Eastern culture Studying American culture provides valuable insights into the customs and way of life in the U.S., as well as a foundational understanding of Western cultural practices.
America exerts a significant influence on countries worldwide, including Vietnam As one of Vietnam's leading partners in its dynamic, market-oriented economy, understanding American culture is essential for fostering strong international relations Learning about American traditions and values helps deepen mutual cooperation and enhances Vietnam's integration into the global marketplace.
This article focuses on exploring cultural values by comparing Vietnamese and American cultures, recognizing that it is impossible to cover all aspects of culture due to its diversity The study highlights key differences in cultural values between the two societies, providing insights into their unique perspectives and social norms By examining these contrasts, the paper aims to deepen the understanding of how cultural values shape behaviors and interactions in Vietnam and the United States.
Aims of the study
The aims of this study are:
- To give a background knowledge of culture, American culture and Vietnamese culture, from there to understand more about culture of each country
- To show some differences between Vietnamese and American cultural values
- To give some suggestions for Vietnamese to avoid cultural shock in contact with Americans.
Scope of the study
- The study only focus on several salient cultural values with out covering all of the American and Vietnamese cultural onces
- The study tries to find some contrasts between Vietnamese and American cultural values.
Method of the study
- The study refers to both home and foreign publications to set up the theoretical background
- The main method of study is analysis and contrasting
- The considerations, remarks, comment as well as conclusion in the study are based largely on the analysis of the data with due reference to publication.
Design of the study
The thesis includes three main parts:
This part is divided into:
1 The reason of the study
5 Design of the study Part B: Development
Chapter I: Theoretical background Chapter II: Some contrasts between Vietnamese and American cultural values
Chapter III: Some advices for Vietnamese in contacts with American PartC: Conclusion
THEORETICAL BACHGROUND
Culture
Culture encompasses various definitions and significantly influences all aspects of societal life through shared ideas, values, attitudes, and behavioral norms It is a collective phenomenon, not inherited genetically, and relies on social sharing among community members to exist Understanding the role of culture is essential for analyzing societal behaviors and interactions.
According to the American Heritage Dictionary, culture encompasses the totality of socially transmitted behavior patterns, arts, beliefs, institutions, and other products of human work and thought It also includes intellectual and artistic activities and the works produced through them, highlighting the multifaceted nature of cultural expression.
Similarly, in dictionary of English Language and culture (Longman,
1992), culture is described as “the customs, beliefs, art, music and all the other products of human thought made by a particular group of people at a particular time.”
According to anthropologists, culture encompasses the universal human ability to classify, codify, and communicate experiences symbolically Sociologists, on the other hand, define culture as the comprehensive and organized way of life of a society, including its values, norms, institutions, and artifacts Understanding these perspectives highlights the importance of culture in shaping human behavior and social structures.
Culture is a complex concept rooted in human society, reflecting the characteristics of a community through shared beliefs, practices, and values It is created and developed through interactions and socialization, playing a vital role in shaping individual identity and maintaining social order As a product of human interaction, culture is transmitted from generation to generation, serving as an effective means to express the unique identity of a nation or community To truly understand a community, gaining insight into its culture is essential, as it reveals the values and traditions that define its members.
Culture has been fulfilling a number of functions which may be divided into two parts One is functions for the individual and other is functions for the group
Culture is what distinguishes humans from animals, defining what it means to be truly human It guides our behavior and equips us for living within a community, fostering social harmony Without culture, humans would be left to figure out their path independently, which would require excessive energy and hinder societal development.
Culture serves as a vital guide in navigating complex situations, offering individuals a set of behaviors to handle difficult circumstances Without culture, even simple situations could leave people confused and unsure of how to respond It shapes our daily lives by defining what we eat and drink, when we sleep, and when we laugh, providing a framework that brings consistency and understanding to human behavior.
Culture offers traditional interpretations for various situations, guiding human behavior accordingly For instance, cultural beliefs may influence individuals to postpone their journey if a cat crosses their path, highlighting how culture shapes responses to specific events.
Culture plays a vital role in shaping personality, as children cannot develop essential human qualities without a cultural environment It prepares individuals for effective group life by fostering social skills and shared values Additionally, culture provides opportunities for personal development while also setting boundaries that influence and regulate growth.
(Ajay Bhatt Sociology What are the important functions of culture Retried
April 20,2012, from http://www.preservearticles.com/201101173456/important- functions-of-culture.html)
Culture plays a vital role in maintaining social relationships, serving as a foundation that benefits both individuals and the group It prepares individuals for effective group life, ensuring cohesion and harmony within the community Without cultural regulations, group life would be chaotic, unpleasant, and short-lived Ultimately, cultural norms and values are essential for fostering group solidarity and social stability.
Secondly, culture has given a new vision to the co-operation of the individuals Culture teaches him to think of himself as a part of the larger whole
It provides him with the concepts of family, state, nation etc and makes possible the coordination and division of labour
Culture fosters new needs and drives, such as a thirst for knowledge, and provides pathways for their fulfillment It also addresses the moral and religious interests of community members, ensuring their holistic development and social cohesion.
Culture is humanity's unique possession that shapes individual qualities and group identities It plays a crucial role in developing human potential, distinguishing individuals, and guiding personal and collective growth Ultimately, culture influences personality development and the structural dynamics of groups, making it essential for societal progress.
(Ajay Bhatt Sociology What are the important functions of culture Retried
April 20, 2012, from http://www.preservearticles.com/201101173456/important- functions-of-culture.html)
Social organization creates social structure by organizing its members into small units meeting basic needs
Family is the most important unit of social organization Through the family, children learn how they are expected to act and what to believe
Nuclear family includes wife, husband and children It is typical family us an industrial society Nuclear family does not have to be large to accomplish tasks of living
Extended family is several generations living in a household working and living together including grand parents, aunts and uncles and cousins Respect for elder is strong in extended family
Social class ranks people in order of status, depending on what is important to the culture ( money, job, education, ancestry, etc.)
Customs and traditions are rules of people’s behavior in a society They enforced ideas of right and wrong Often these ideas are part of the culture ‘s written laws
Language is a cohesive system of words and ideas sharing a common meaning within a social context, serving as a gateway to understanding culture It consists of socially accepted patterns, words, and sentences that carry specific meanings and terminology unique to a particular culture.
Language serves as a vital tool for communication, enabling individuals to transmit messages effectively It shapes behavior and experiences, reflecting cultural differences and being passed down through generations Acting as a vehicle for complex social activities, language is the foundation of culture and a gateway to social life Unlike animals, who lack specific languages to transmit ideas, humans rely on language's unique characteristics to connect and engage within society.
Religion is a system of beliefs and practices centered around a belief in the supernatural, often encompassing cultural systems, belief systems, and worldviews that connect humanity to spirituality and moral values Many religions feature narratives, symbols, and sacred histories designed to provide meaning to life and explain the origins of the universe These spiritual frameworks typically inform morality, ethics, religious laws, and lifestyle preferences based on their understanding of the cosmos and human nature.
Religion is often used interchangeably with faith or belief systems, but it differs from private belief by its public nature Organized religions typically include features such as clergy, defined membership, congregations, regular worship services, and sacred places or scriptures Religious practices encompass sermons, festivals, sacrifices, ceremonies, meditation, art, music, dance, and community activities However, some religions may lack certain structural elements or practices, highlighting the diversity within religious expressions around the world.
York: Oxford University Press p 124 ISBN 978-0-19-285346-2)
Form of government is people from governments to provide for their common needs and protect their society from outside threats
Government is a group of people who hold power in a society At the same time, it is society’s laws and political institutions
Democracy is a society in which people have supreme power, government acts by and with consent
Dictatorship is a society in which rulers or group of people hold power by force It usually relies on military support for power
Economic system is the way how people use limited resources to satisfy their wants and needs
According to Nguyen Thi Van Lam (2011):
Traditional economy is an economic system in which people’s economic role are the same as those of their parents
Market economy is an economic system in which the means of production are owned by private individuals or businesses
Command economy is an economic system in which decisions are made by the government
Mixed economy is an economic system in which individuals make some economic decisions and the government makes others.
American culture
The United States has a rich Western cultural heritage rooted in European influences that have shaped its unique social and cultural identity Over the centuries, American culture has evolved to include distinct dialects, music, arts, social customs, cuisine, and folklore that reflect its diverse history Today, the U.S is an ethnically and racially diverse nation, resulting from extensive immigration from around the world, which continues to enrich its vibrant cultural landscape.
The early cultural foundations of the region were significantly shaped by English, Scottish, and Irish settlers in colonial America, with British influences playing a key role in spreading the English language, legal systems, and cultural traditions Additionally, influences from Western European countries such as Germany, France, and Italy contributed to the diverse cultural heritage, enriching the development of the region's identity.
The invention of Jeffersonian Democracy played a crucial role in shaping American culture Thomas Jefferson's "Notes on the State of Virginia" is considered one of the earliest influential domestic critiques, challenging the European view that America's originality was degenerate Key elements like national holidays, uniquely American sports, military traditions, and innovations in arts and entertainment foster a strong sense of national pride among Americans These foundational ideas and cultural practices contribute significantly to America's distinct national identity.
American culture is a complex blend of conservative and liberal elements, emphasizing both military and scientific advancement It is characterized by diverse political structures, a willingness to take risks, and a strong value placed on free expression While core principles such as individualism, egalitarianism, and belief in freedom and democracy remain consistent, the country's vast geographical size and demographic diversity give rise to a wide variety of cultural expressions Its flexible and highly symbolic nature has led some scholars to describe American culture as a mythic identity, while others view it as a form of American exceptionalism.
This article highlights the rich cultural diversity that shapes modern society, including elements originating from Native American communities and various ethnic subcultures Notably, African American culture and Latin American influences have significantly contributed to this cultural mosaic Additionally, popular culture has been widely disseminated worldwide through modern mass media, fostering a greater global appreciation and understanding of these diverse traditions.
The United States is traditionally viewed as a melting pot of cultures, but recent developments highlight the country’s shift toward embracing cultural diversity and pluralism, often described as a "salad bowl" rather than a melting pot American society comprises numerous integrated yet distinct social subcultures, shaping the nation’s rich cultural tapestry An individual’s cultural affiliations in the U.S are commonly influenced by factors such as social class, political beliefs, religious background, occupation, and ethnicity, reflecting the country’s complex and diverse demographic landscape.
The United States of America boasts a rich and diverse culture shaped by its history, people, and immigrant influences American traditions emphasize family values, individualism, and innovation, reflected in its clothing, food, and customs The country's history is marked by significant events that have influenced its societal norms and cultural identity Women in the U.S have played a vital role in shaping social progress and cultural change Americans celebrate a variety of traditions and holidays that highlight their beliefs, including diverse religious practices and festivities Food in the United States is a melting pot of flavors influenced by various ethnic cuisines, symbolizing the nation's cultural diversity Family remains a central aspect of American life, fostering community and social stability Overall, the culture of the United States is a dynamic blend of history, beliefs, and traditions that continue to evolve.
The traditional family model in American culture is predominantly the nuclear family, composed of two parents and their children, emphasizing the importance of biological kinship Upon marriage, couples are expected to establish a separate household, distinct from their own families The "ideal" family typically includes a mother, a father, and two or three children, with strong bonds maintained within the nuclear unit Americans often prioritize blood relatives over those related through marriage, highlighting closer ties among immediate family members Adoption is common and accepted, while reproductive technologies—such as those assisting infertile or gay couples—are highly valued due to the cultural emphasis on biological kinship and lineage.
Most Americans believe in the idea of equal opportunity and economic mobility, fueled by the popularity of rags-to-riches stories, gambling, and lotteries However, evidence suggests that social mobility is limited, with working-class individuals often remaining in their socio-economic status Meanwhile, the top 1 percent has experienced significant wealth gains in recent years, unlike the poorest sectors, indicating a widening wealth gap and growing economic inequality in the United States.
The culture of the United States of America is a rich tapestry shaped by its diverse history, people, and traditions American society values individualism, freedom, and innovation, reflected in its unique clothing styles, food, and customs The country has a prominent history of pioneering women who've contributed significantly to social change Family plays a central role in American life, with traditions varying across regions and communities American beliefs and celebrations, including national holidays and festivals, highlight the country's cultural diversity and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Every country has its unique social customs and traditions, and the U.S is no exception Americans value good manners, politeness, and consideration for others, making these important aspects of social interaction Generally, Americans are informal in their relationships and are usually understanding if social rules are occasionally broken, provided the behavior isn’t outrageous When exploring American customs and traditions, it’s essential to be aware of the key dos and don’ts to ensure respectful and culturally appropriate behavior.
The United states is an extremely diverse, multicultural society As such, all of the following rules will change depending on the location, setting, and people involved
Avoiding direct eye contact during conversations can be perceived as evasive, but cultural norms vary globally In many Western societies, maintaining eye contact is associated with confidence and honesty, whereas in some cultures, such as parts of Asia and the Middle East, direct gaze may be considered rude or confrontational Understanding these cultural differences is essential for effective and respectful communication worldwide.
It is considered impolite to ask people how much money they earn It is not considered rude to ask someone what he or she does for a living
It is considered impolite not to cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing When someone else sneezes, it is customary to say "Bless you."
(The German word for health, "Gesundheit", is also generally acceptable.) If someone says "Bless you" to you, it is customary to reply with "Thank you."
At an initial introduction, it is considered awkward to ask someone if they are married or have a boyfriend or girlfriend
At an initial introduction, it is considered awkward to ask someone their political views
It is considered impolite to ask a woman how old she is or inquire about her weight
In the United States, strangers generally interact in a friendly and informal manner, though these social norms vary by region For example, in the South, greetings such as hugging and patting on the back are considered friendly and welcoming In contrast, the Northeast tends to have more reserved interactions, where such gestures may be viewed as overbearing Many foreigners mistakenly perceive Americans as superficial due to these differences, but in reality, Americans understand and respect the boundaries of their relationships, distinguishing between acquaintances and close friends Those who struggle to interact casually with Americans may be perceived as awkward, aloof, rude, or arrogant, despite the generally friendly and open social environment.
Standing within an arm's length of someone is generally seen as a rude invasion of personal space, unless you are very close friends While this proximity is often tolerated in crowded situations, it can still make many Americans feel uncomfortable Respecting personal space etiquette is important for maintaining comfort and social harmony.
Profane words are prohibited on broadcast television and radio, reflecting societal standards that view such language as inappropriate in formal media While these words are generally considered vulgar and associated with lower social classes, many individuals use them regularly in casual or familiar conversations.
Vietnamese culture
Vietnam's culture is rooted in an ancient agricultural civilization centered around wet rice cultivation, making it one of the oldest in East Asia The Bronze Age Dong Son culture is a significant progenitor of Vietnam's cultural heritage Due to centuries of Chinese influence shaping its politics, governance, and Confucian social ethics, Vietnam is considered an integral part of the East Asian Cultural Sphere.
Following its independence from China in the 10th century, Vietnam embarked on a significant southward expansion, gradually annexing territories once part of the Champa civilization in Central Vietnam and regions of the Khmer Empire in southern Vietnam This territorial growth led to cultural diversity within Vietnam, as exposure to these different neighboring civilizations introduced minor regional variations in language, customs, and traditions across the country.
During the French colonial period, Vietnamese culture was significantly influenced by European merchants, leading to the spread of Catholicism and the adoption of the Latin alphabet Today, Vietnam remains the only nation in Indochina that uses the Latin script to write its national language, reflecting this lasting colonial legacy.
During the socialist era, Vietnam's cultural life was heavily shaped by government-controlled media and socialist programs, which promoted the appreciation of communist nations like the Soviet Union, China, and Cuba while minimizing foreign influences For decades, Vietnam prioritized sharing and emphasizing its own socialist culture, often shunning external cultural influences However, since the 1990s, Vietnam has experienced increased exposure to diverse international cultures, including Asian, European, and American media and entertainment, leading to greater cultural openness and diversity.
Vietnamese culture is characterized by essential elements such as ancestor veneration, a deep respect for community and family values, and a strong tradition of handicrafts and manual labor Devotion to education and learning also plays a significant role in Vietnamese society Iconic symbols like dragons, turtles, lotuses, and bamboo are deeply rooted in Vietnamese cultural identity, representing strength, resilience, purity, and harmony (Source: Embassy of Vietnam in the United States, "Evolution of culture," http://www.vietnamembassy-usa.org/learn_about_vietnam/culture/evolution/, retrieved May 16, 2010)
The family is a fundamental institution in society that perpetuates social values and protects individuals Vietnamese family structures tend to be more complex than American families, which are primarily nuclear and often exclude extended relatives and in-laws In Vietnam, family roles are more diverse and nuanced, reflecting a richer set of social duties and relationships compared to the relatively simpler family roles found in American households.
Vietnamese culture emphasizes the distinction between immediate family and extended family The immediate family typically includes the husband, wife, their unmarried children, as well as the husband's parents, sons' wives, and grandchildren In contrast, the extended family encompasses these members plus close relatives sharing the same family name and ancestors, often living within the same community.
The Vietnamese concept of family is characterized by its intricate terminology that reflects complex kinship relationships Each member of the extended family is assigned a specific designation based on their relative position and role within the family structure In Vietnamese culture, people are commonly addressed by kinship terms rather than their given names, emphasizing the importance of family hierarchy and social bonds This rich terminology highlights the deep-rooted values of respect and filial piety that are central to Vietnamese family life.
In Vietnamese society, the father is regarded as the head of the family, but unlike the traditionally empowered Chinese father with absolute authority, Vietnamese fathers share collective and bilateral responsibilities with their wives and children Legally, morally, and spiritually, Vietnamese fathers approach family leadership as a partnership, emphasizing a more balanced and responsible role within the family unit.
Vietnamese culture strongly emphasizes traditional values in family relationships, including the bond between parents and children and between spouses Despite significant influence from Chinese culture and Confucian principles, Vietnamese people preserve their own customs and traditions, maintaining the unique identity of their familial bonds.
In Vietnamese culture, mothers are viewed as equal to fathers in the eyes of children, embodying love, self-denial, and sacrifice They are seen as vital figures who nurture and support their families with unwavering dedication The Vietnamese mother symbolizes strength and compassion, reflecting deep respect and admiration from her children.
In Vietnamese society, respect for older people is a core value, rooted in filial piety and cultural traditions, highlighting the importance of honoring elders regardless of wealth or social status Long life is viewed as a sign of virtue and divine favor, making the elderly regarded as custodians of tradition, knowledge, and wisdom Respect is demonstrated through respectful attitudes and behaviors, such as the use of special terms of address and stylistic language Unlike Western societies that emphasize youth, Vietnam considers age an asset, reflecting the society’s pride in its senior members.
In Vietnamese society, teachers are highly respected and hold great prestige, regardless of their age The student-teacher relationship reflects deep cultural values, akin to a son's respect for his father's wisdom and a father's concern for his son's wellbeing This respect is also evident in students' linguistic behavior, as they use terms of address for teachers that are identical to those used for parents, demonstrating their reverence and the close-knit social bonds within the educational context.
Linguistic devices play a crucial role in Vietnamese culture by helping speakers save face and maintain harmony in social interactions Depreciatory terms are often used for oneself, while complimentary language is directed toward others, reflecting a cultural emphasis on politeness and humility The practice of "beating about the bush" to avoid direct negative responses exemplifies how Vietnamese speakers prioritize face-saving in communication Additionally, Vietnamese students tend to say yes to teachers' questions, even when they may disagree, demonstrating the importance of preserving face and respect within hierarchical relationships.
Vietnamese people are pragmatic and prioritize hearty, durable clothing and substantial meals Their cuisine primarily revolves around rice and vegetables, reflecting a preference for vegetarian dishes, often complemented by aquatic products Boiling is a traditional and favored cooking method in Vietnam Vietnamese cuisine emphasizes complex, multi-ingredient food processing techniques, resulting in rich and diverse flavors While meat and fish have become mainstay proteins in modern meals, traditional items like pickled eggplant remain an important part of Vietnamese food culture.
SOME CONTRASTS BETWEEN VIETNAMESE AND
Culture value patterns
Cultural value patterns are fundamental criteria that shape how we assess our own behaviors and those of others They function as our implicit expectations and serve as guiding principles for our motivations, perceptions, and communications These underlying values influence how we interpret social interactions and navigate cultural norms, making them essential for understanding behavior in different cultural contexts Recognizing these value patterns enhances intercultural awareness and improves communication effectiveness.
Cultural values have many functions, however, we only focus on four main functions
Cultural belief and values provide the anchoring points to which we attach meanings and significance to our complex identities
The identity meanings which we acquire within our culture are constructed and sustained through everyday communication
Cultural values clarify the reasons behind our actions and beliefs Within our own groups, these values help us understand why we act a certain way, filling in the gaps of our behavior When interacting with people from different cultures, it's essential to be able to explain the "why" behind our beliefs and actions to foster understanding and effective communication.
Boundary regulation function shapes our in group and out – group attitudes in dealing with people who are culturally dissimilar
In – groups are groups with whom we feel emotionally close and with whom we share an interdependent fate
Out – groups are groups with whom we feel no emotional ties and at times We may experience great psychological distance from them and even fell completive against them
Cultural values or principles facilitate the adoption processes among the self, the cultural community and larger environment
Cultural values form the implicit standards by which we judge appropriate and inappropriate behaviors in a communication
Cultural values provide a broad framework, but they do not fully account for the diverse behaviors of individuals within a society Family socialization, personal life experiences, exposure to popular culture, and immigration or intergroup contact significantly influence an individual's value formation process These factors contribute to shaping personal beliefs and behaviors, highlighting the complexity of cultural influences on individual development.
Some contrasts between Vietnamese and American cultural values patterns 32 1 Control of nature and the environment
In Vietnamese culture, there is a belief that fate influences key aspects of life such as marriage, wealth, and social status, but it is not seen as an uncontrollable force Instead, fate is viewed as the will of Heaven (Troi), a merciful and just deity that reflects the consequences of one's own actions and past lives This perspective combines the Confucian idea of Heaven's decree with Buddhist Karma, emphasizing that one's destiny results from personal deeds and ancestral karma, offering a harmonious understanding of fate's role in life.
In Vietnamese culture, fate does not negate the importance of human effort and willpower Misfortune and happiness are temporary and subject to change, emphasizing that individuals can alter their destiny through perseverance, good deeds, and personal endeavors While a person with an unfavorable fate can achieve positive change by striving and acting virtuously, those with a favorable destiny risk downfall if they live unworthily This reflects the Vietnamese belief in divine justice and the principle of cause and effect, where happiness or suffering directly results from one's actions and intentions.
In modern American society, there is a strong skepticism toward the concept of Fate, with many viewing belief in it as outdated or naive Being labeled "fatalistic" is considered one of the worst criticisms, as it implies superstition, laziness, and a lack of initiative in pursuing personal or societal improvement Americans tend to see those who believe in Fate as backward or primitive, emphasizing individual agency and proactive effort over reliance on luck or destiny.
In the United States, it is widely regarded as normal for humans to control nature rather than being constrained by it Americans believe that individuals should have mastery over the environmental factors that could affect them, and personal success is often seen as a result of effort rather than luck The cultural mindset emphasizes prioritizing one’s self-interest and taking responsibility for one’s circumstances Many Americans struggle to accept that some limitations are beyond human control, yet they have achieved extraordinary feats like landing on the moon, driven by a refusal to accept earthly boundaries This relentless drive pushes Americans to undertake challenges that most of the world believes are impossible, often at great personal and collective cost.
In the United States, a strong sense of equality underpins social relationships, despite differences in social, economic, and educational backgrounds Americans emphasize individual merit over fixed social status, believing that anyone who works hard can succeed, which influences their interaction style They typically do not show deference to wealth, age, or social rank, aiming to treat everyone equally Visitors from other cultures may perceive Americans as lacking respect for authority or status, while Americans abroad might find it confusing to be treated differently based on cultural perceptions of status The American social norm promotes minimizing distinctions of rank and authority, exemplified by the widespread use of first names, reflecting a belief in equal rights and opportunities, even though societal inequalities persist.
In Vietnam, hierarchy rooted in Confucianism emphasizes social order, with individuals occupying distinct roles within family and workplace structures Respect for hierarchy is deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture, as people show reverence to their superiors and expect respect in return from those they consider inferiors This cultural value fosters a society where recognizing and maintaining hierarchical relationships is fundamental to social interactions.
Traditional social hierarchies often position older individuals as more authoritative than younger ones, men as more dominant than women, and the wealthy or higher-status individuals as superior to the poor or lower-status groups Within the family structure, the head is typically responsible for making key decisions, including approving marriages, reflecting established authority and social roles This hierarchy underscores the importance of age, gender, and social status in shaping societal and familial dynamics.
In Vietnam, class and authority provide a deep sense of security and societal structure, reassuring individuals of their place from birth Vietnamese culture emphasizes formal respect, often using titles like "Mr." or "Ms." along with "Thưa" for politeness, and placing the family name before the given names Traditional customs reflect conservative values; physical contact in public, especially between genders, is avoided, with greetings typically involving bowing or a gesture of joining hands Older individuals may also show respect by touching a child's head, underscoring the importance of hierarchy and reverence in Vietnamese society.
Among diversity culture in the world, American cultures and Asian culture, as Vietnamese culture, are recognized incompatibility Almost
American values are fundamentally rooted in individualism, emphasizing the "freedom to do what one wants," which underpins principles of equality, privacy, and informality in American lifestyle (Shain, 1994) In contrast, Vietnamese culture is centered on collectivism and strong family allegiance, where responsibilities, rights, and commitments to the group or family are prioritized over individual desires Understanding these cultural differences is essential for effective communication: Americans value individualism and personal freedom, while Vietnamese people prioritize family values and respect These cultural disparities stem from historical backgrounds; the United States was founded by individuals seeking freedom and equality from diverse backgrounds, promoting equal opportunities irrespective of personal or family heritage Consequently, the American emphasis on personal freedom reflects their historical pursuit of independence, whereas Vietnam’s collectivist approach is shaped by a collective sense of duty and family-oriented values stemming from its historical development.
Vietnam's collectivist culture is deeply rooted in its tropical environment, agricultural traditions, and rice water culture, which emphasize group survival over individualism While American culture promotes individual responsibility and personal freedom, Vietnamese society values family and group obligations as more important than individual desires, influenced by Confucian ethics This contrasting worldview highlights that Americans see individuals as separate entities responsible for their own lives, whereas Vietnamese individuals are viewed as integral members of a family or community, with duties that often surpass personal needs Vietnamese culture emphasizes responsibilities, rights, and commitments to the group or family, reflecting a collective mindset where serving the family and country is considered a noble destiny.
In the United States, children are taught to exercise their freedom to make decisions and take responsibility for their choices and the resulting consequences Conversely, Vietnamese children are raised to obey their parents and consider their decisions in the context of familial obligations, emphasizing respect and fulfilling duties to others Additionally, Vietnamese children are expected to care for their aging parents, often at their own expense, demonstrating filial sacrifice, whereas American parents typically cover their own expenses when living with grown children.
Americans strongly believe that competition inspires individuals to reach their full potential, fostering excellence from a young age in homes and classrooms alike While this competitive spirit may seem disagreeable to those from cultures emphasizing cooperation, many foreign educators, such as Peace Corps volunteers, have come to see it as a distinctly American (or Western) value The U.S promotes a competitive economic system aligned with free enterprise, believing that such an environment drives societal progress and innovation Evidence of this competitive ethos is evident across various sectors, including medicine, arts, education, and sports, highlighting America’s commitment to competition as a key driver of national advancement.
Vietnamese culture emphasizes cooperation and harmony over competition, as they prefer peaceful living and working environments They believe in the importance of flexibility and unity, encapsulated in sayings like "Better bend than break" and "We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools." This approach fosters a community-oriented lifestyle centered on mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
In Vietnam, teamwork and collective decision-making are highly prioritized, with people often gathering to listen to diverse opinions before reaching a conclusion When disagreements arise, they typically prefer to negotiate and seek the consensus of the majority to ensure harmony and unity.
In daily Vietnamese life, cooperation is a vital value reflected through various activities, such as playing games with friends and respecting their preferences while maintaining fairness Acts of helping others, like opening doors or carrying items, further highlight their spirit of collaboration Additionally, Vietnamese people emphasize the importance of family bonds by demonstrating cooperative behaviors within their households, illustrating a strong sense of community and mutual support.