Job Discussion Forums

[akoo1]

Yes i understood the meaning, I just don't see why you refer to it as twisted?

To me, it sounds like your describing adaptability.

Also, when you used the word normal, I think you meant western?

I say that because most people don't get angry when they can't get what they want from others. Especially when their not in their home countries.

Most cultures on Earth employ saving face. The West does not, do you agree? In Europe and US for example, it's generally OK to point fingers at others when they screw up. I know for a fact that the whole of Asia is just not like that.

It would be interesting to have non-western English teachers contribute to this topic. And see how they ended up after teaching in KSA.

[johnslat]

Dear akoo1,

I call it twisted because one needs to twist one's idea of what's "normal" (and yes, I meant "normal" for "Westerners," which is why I put it in quotation marks.) And one has to learn to "twist" one's reaction, from irritation / anger / frustration to patience and even amusement,

And I assume that when you wrote "most people" (as in most people don't get angry) you meant most "non-Westerners" because, at least in my experience. most "Westerners do tend to get angry / frustrated /irritated.

I'm also not so sure that "most cultures" on Earth employ "saving face,." Certainly most Asian cultures would seem to, but that leaves quite a few other continents out.

Regards,
John

[akoo1]

It's not only Asia, but the entire Middle East and Central Asia employing face. I'd also imagine large portions of the entire Northern half of Africa. I believe this already accounts for more than 60% of the world population.

[johnslat]

Dear akoo1,

Um, I think the Middle East IS part of Asia. "Face" to the best of my knowledge, is not a big item in most of Africa, certainly not a major force as it is in, say, China.

Regards,
John

[nomad soul]

[akoo1]

North Africa doesn't employ face? Even without Africa, it's still the world majority.

I personally believe personality and values are influenced by nationality, ethnicity and culture. This is why people of the same group prefer to hang around one another. The exception being people without a strong cultural, ethnic or national background.

I read the posts in the other thread but I don't see the relevance to what we're talking about. They're talking about returning home after years abroad. I'm curious to know more about reactions of people who enjoyed KSA.

[nomad soul]