ID: 40090134M
Summery:
Basically, there are three distinctions describing about Culture and Conflict in this article. One common cultural difference is between what is commonly called High-context and Low-context cultures. These terms refer to the degree to which speakers use nonverbal cues to convey their messages. High-context cultures communicate with messages that assume a lot--they depend on an understanding of the context of the message in order for the message's meaning to be understood. Low-context cultures spell everything out in the message itself.
Cultures are sometimes considered monochronic or polychronic. Monochronic culture runs the Western World. That’s not to say that everyone is wired that way -- far from it. But life, work and society are organized according to monochronic principles. Activities are structured and scheduled in a linear fashion, based on clarity of purpose, efficiency of execution and economic progress. Logic, order, punctuality and productivity define the mindset in which being and knowing serve doing and having. Polychronic cultures tend to be more fluid and less structured. Relationships, alternatives, opportunities and mood take precedence. Having several projects running at the same time (multi-tasking) is both natural and stimulating, and the present is put before punctuality. Many parts of Asia, Africa and Latin America are considered to function this way.
Specificity-diffuseness refers to the extent to which roles are either narrowly or broadly defined. It is assumed that in modern differentiated societies people occupy specialized roles that carry formal and explicit expectations and responsibilities.
Response:
Conflict is an inevitable and natural process. Culture and conflict are inextricably linked. However, this does not mean cultural differences inevitably produce conflict. When problems surface, between or within cultures, it is