Social Norms in Different Cultures

Social Norms: The Western World vs. The Rest

Different culturs have different social norms that many of outsiders may think to be odd. Some other cultures may get offended by some of our social norms and we also may be offended or appalled by their social norms.

In Malaysia it is very common for someone to eat something like rice with their bare right hand. The reason why they eat with their right hand and not their left is because they use their left hand to take care of bathroom needs. So it’s understandable why they would get offended if you used your left hand to shake hands. In middle-eastern countries, many females wear a Vail. It is not just a religious peace of clothing but a cultural peace of clothing, just how in America, we wear jeans.

When many foreigners come to the western world they are shocked at the clothing Americans wear. We do not always cover much of our bodies and they think that is offensive while Americans think it’s completely normal.

I think people need to be less ignorant and more understanding of other cultures. Even if you didn’t know about the social norm, if you see something that’s different, don’t judge it. Be a little less narrow-minded and accept people for who they are instead of judging them and assuming things when in reality you don’t know anything, you’re just talking out of your ass.