Course Number: 1409
Instructor: Melanie K. Hail
February 12, 2013
The term culture has many definitions depending upon the type of culture that you are referring to. In this situation; culture, is defined as the integrated pattern of human knowledge, belief and behavior that depends upon the capacity for learning and transmitting knowledge to future generations. I believe that culture of an ethnic group starts at the beginning of time before people understood that their behaviors and belief system would be passed on from generation to generation. The characteristics are what make an ethnic group. Race, religion, language, cultural origin, cuisine and family structure all work together to put us in a group with other people who share similar values and beliefs. It is very important for me to understand the practices, beliefs and responsibilities of living in a multicultural world, personally and professionally as a health care provider. I think that the more open minded that I am - the more effective I will be with treating a patient. I have to be careful not to judge people based on appearances. I also have to have an understanding that everyone doesn’t believe or think the way that I do; this will enable me to move through life a lot easier and less frustrated – not to mention in the workplace. The name of my culture is East Indian. Overall cultural philosophies related to East Indians are Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Yoga, Samkhya, Nyaya, Purva Mimamsa, Vedanta, Carvaka and Indian Political Philosophy. East Indians largest meal is usually at lunch and their meals always include rice or Indian bread called “naan”, a meat and two vegetable dishes. They like to use aromatic spices like curry, turmeric and cumin. Extended family members usually live together. The women usually take care of the household and the man is the “bread winner”. Family issues, including health care are usually discussed with the immediate family before seeking