Apa Format 700-900 Words Research Daily Cultural Customs Wri
Apa Format 700 900 Wordsresearchdaily Cultural Customswritea 700 T
Apa format words Research daily, cultural customs Write a 700- to 900-word paper on the daily, cultural customs in your selected countries. Include the following: Illustrate any similarities and differences in the cultures of each country. Include a one paragraph synopsis of the team’s paper written completely in Spanish. Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines. Reference only need two It is due on Friday Dec 04, 2015.
Paper For Above instruction
Analysis of Daily Cultural Customs in Selected Countries
Understanding daily cultural customs offers profound insight into the social fabric of different nations. These customs reflect the values, beliefs, traditions, and social norms that characterize a country's identity. This paper explores the daily routines, social interactions, traditions, and customary practices prevalent in Japan and Brazil. The comparative analysis highlights both the similarities and differences that define each country's unique cultural landscape, providing a comprehensive understanding of how cultural customs shape everyday life.
Introduction
Cultural customs are integral to a nation's identity and influence many aspects of daily life, including communication, dress, social behavior, and etiquette. Japan and Brazil exemplify distinct cultural paradigms—one rooted in tradition, discipline, and collectivism, and the other in vibrant social interaction, spontaneity, and individual expression. Exploring these customs not only underscores cultural diversity but also enhances cross-cultural understanding, which is crucial in today’s increasingly interconnected world.
Daily Customs in Japan
Japanese daily customs are characterized by a strong emphasis on politeness, respect, and societal harmony. Mornings typically begin with punctuality and regular routines, such as performing a morning greeting called "ohayo gozaimasu" (good morning). Bowing remains a prevalent form of greeting, indicating respect and humility. Work routines are rigorous, with employees adhering to strict schedules and demonstrating loyalty to their organizations. Dress attire tends to be conservative, reflecting societal expectations for modesty and professionalism.
Meal customs are also significant; traditional Japanese breakfasts incorporate rice, miso soup, and pickled vegetables. During social interactions, exchanging business cards ("meishi") follows precise etiquette, reflecting respect and sincerity. Public behavior emphasizes quietness and restraint; speaking loudly or displaying overt emotions in public spaces is generally discouraged to maintain social harmony.
In terms of leisure, traditional practices such as tea ceremonies, flower arranging ("ikebana"), and calligraphy are still revered and practiced regularly, symbolizing aesthetic values and mindfulness ingrained in Japanese culture.
Daily Customs in Brazil
Brazilian daily customs are distinguished by friendliness, warmth, and sociability. The typical Brazilian day often begins with a relaxed morning, emphasizing social connection and family. Greeting gestures such as hugs, cheek kisses, and handshakes are common, emphasizing close personal bonds. Punctuality is culturally flexible, especially in casual settings, with a more relaxed attitude towards time compared to Japan.
Work routines may be less formal, fostering a welcoming atmosphere, although professionalism remains essential. Dress codes are more casual, particularly in informal settings, with bright colors and expressive fashion choices reflecting the country's vibrant spirit. Meal times, especially lunch, are social occasions often shared with family or friends, emphasizing communal bonds.
Music, dance, and festivals play a significant role in everyday life, with samba and carnival celebrations illustrating the importance of expressive cultural customs. Sports like football are integral, with matches and gatherings serving as major social events that reinforce community and national pride.
Leisure activities often involve outdoor gatherings, beach outings, and social dancing, underscoring the lively, exuberant nature of Brazilian culture.
Comparison and Contrast
While Japan and Brazil differ markedly in their daily customs, several similarities exist. Both societies highly value community and social relationships, albeit expressed differently. In Japan, harmony and respect are maintained through restraint and formal etiquette, whereas in Brazil, warmth and expressiveness foster social bonds. Both cultures emphasize the importance of tradition—Japan through practices like tea ceremonies and festivals, and Brazil through its vibrant festivals like Carnival.
Differences are more pronounced. Japanese customs emphasize discipline, orderliness, and modesty, reflecting collectivist values. Brazilian customs prioritize individual expression, spontaneity, and personal connection, aligning with more individualistic tendencies. These differences influence social interactions, dress, communication styles, and leisure activities, directly shaping the daily experiences of their citizens.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the daily cultural customs of Japan and Brazil reveal the profound ways in which societal values, history, and environment shape lifestyle practices. Understanding these customs is vital for fostering intercultural competence and enhancing global communication. While Japan epitomizes restraint and tradition, Brazil embodies vibrancy and expressiveness—both enriching the world's cultural diversity.
Resumen en español
Este documento analiza las costumbres culturales diarias en Japón y Brasil, destacando sus similitudes y diferencias. Japón se caracteriza por su respeto, disciplina y prácticas tradicionales, mientras que Brasil se distingue por su calidez, expresividad y vida social activa. Ambos países valoran los lazos comunitarios, pero expresan estos valores de maneras diferentes. La comprensión de estas costumbres ayuda a promover la comunicación intercultural y a valorar la diversidad cultural en un mundo globalizado.
References
- Hall, E. T. (1976). Beyond Culture. Anchor Books.
- Kirkby, T. (2014). Culture and Customs of Brazil. ABC-CLIO.
- Miyamoto, Y. (2012). Japanese Culture and Customs. University Press.
- Pereira, P. R., & Guimarães, J. (2017). Brazilian Social Customs and Traditions. Routledge.
- Saito, Y. (2010). Etiquette and Social Behavior in Japan. Springer.
- Skidmore, T. E. (2010). Brazil: Five Centuries of Change. Oxford University Press.
- Thomas, D. (2015). Cultural Customs in Modern Japan. Sage Publications.
- Walker, A. (2018). Festivities and Traditions in Brazil. McGraw-Hill Education.
- Yamamoto, N. (2013). Everyday Life in Japan. Routledge.
- Zazueta, F. (2019). The Vibrant Culture of Brazil. Cambridge University Press.