Intercultural communication - a new modern science

The term "intercultural communication" implies communication between people belonging to different cultures. As a rule, these are personal contacts or mass communication, although such mediated forms as, for example, correspondence can often occur.

Intercultural communication is a concept that is studied at once by several sciences, for example, psychology, culturology, sociology, ethnology, linguistics, anthropology. Each teaching uses its own theory of studying this branch of knowledge.

Section 1. Intercultural communication and its place among other types of communication.

Depending on the number of people participating in the discussion, in general, communication can be divided into:

• Interpersonal. In this case, the dialogue is conducted in a so-called small group, for example, in the family or in a close circle of friends. The number of participants is minimal, and the relationship between them is quite direct. The nature of such communication is primarily determined by increasing or shortening the distance.
• Intragroup or intergroup. The distance is already increasing, because The number of participants in the dialogue is also growing.
• Professional. Communication only on business matters.
• And finally, intercultural, which includes not only direct communication (interpersonal, intragroup, intergroup, professional) between representatives of different nationalities, but also correspondence.

Section 2. Intercultural Communication. History of appearance.

Initially, this concept was introduced into speech in 1950. A well-known American anthropologist, Edward T. Hall, was engaged in the adaptation of diplomats and various kinds of businessmen from the USA to other countries of the world.

It is then that the scientist proposes the introduction of this term. Although his theory was narrowly focused and was mainly based on different cultural stereotypes (generally accepted norms, values, rules, artifacts of a certain region or country).

At the moment, the understanding of culture as a system of understanding the way of life, norms and values of a certain country in general, and a separate social group, prevails. For example, the culture of organization, city, generation. The very modern concept of culture is considered dynamic, because, according to scientists, it can be modified and adjusted depending on this or that social situation.

Today, it is quite possible to talk about the formation of a certain scientific discipline, which will be called "Intercultural Communication." Having formed, this applied science will become indispensable for alleviating the difficulties arising in the process of communication between representatives of different cultures, as well as in cases where it is necessary to reduce the potential conflict potential. The importance of this science is growing in connection with the growing processes: globalization and intensive migration.

Section 3. Linguistics and Intercultural Communication.

Travel to all corners of the world is becoming simpler and easier. It's no secret to anyone that we live in a so-called global village, but this does not mean that all people in the world are obliged to behave in the same way. Each nation has its own traditions, signs, beliefs and customs. Sometimes they seem strange and incomprehensible, and sometimes even completely contrary to the norms adopted in our home country.

I will give some examples

• Greeting

How should you behave when you meet a person for the first time? Americans or Canadians shake hands and look directly into each other's eyes. At a time when in any part of Asia any physical contact is simply unacceptable.

The Japanese, when healthy, should bow to the opponent, and the bow must be lower than the respected person. The Thais greet each other, clasping their hands in front of the chest and tilting their heads slightly forward, as in prayer. In both countries, any eye contact is prohibited.

• clothing

Many countries have special rules in terms of clothing. In Muslim and Asian countries it is not necessary to strip the body, especially women. They, according to local traditions, wear only clothes with long sleeves and skirts below the knees.

• Business etiquette

We all know that business acquaintances exchange business cards. However, few people realize that intercultural communication offers a whole set of rules regarding this element of business life. First, on your business card, your name and the name of the company that you represent must be written. Secondly, the reverse side of the business card involves writing all of the above in the local language, at worst in English. Thirdly, before a trip abroad try to learn as much as possible information about the rules for the delivery of this very business card. Are you even surprised that they exist? And in vain! For example, in Japan no one will sign a contract with you if you do not give your card with both hands and do not spend at least a minute studying your opponent's business card.