An important reason to learn about one anothers culture and the difference is to gain a better appriciation and respect
Cultural Differences
Known by most scholars as complete opposite cultures, American and Arab cultures have many differences. One of these differences is language. Americans use language mainly to pass on information, while Arabs use language to create a social experience. Another is when an Arab is speaking they would prefer to use imagery instead of getting straight to the point. While speaking, a great deal of emotion is expressed. A great book that is very informative is by the Author Margaret K. Nydell. It is called Understanding Arabs A guide for Modern Times. Some of the topics include:
Communicating: There are some similarities between the Arabic and English language. The English language has adopted many root words in Arabic. A difference between the languages is in Arabic there are three separate and distinct forms. In the English language there is one, and its very informal and to most countries very disrespectfull. (Nydell)
Religion: The Arabic community and the English community share many similarities when it comes to the Old Testament of the Bible. Many of their stories are the same with small differences. Some of the main big differences are in the Arab world Christ is not the son of God, and he did not perform what most Christians call the Atonement, or the sacrifice of Christ. Christ was simply put as a Holy Prophet who led the children of God or Allah. (Nydell)
The Role of the Family: Unfortunately in the West the family is not looked at as being the most important part of our foundation. On the other hand, in the Arab world the family is everything to them. They would be willing to do anything for a family member. They feel that it is their duty to show loyalty and they feel obligated to support each other. They also show a lot of mutual respect for each other. Among the western culture the respect level is very low between younger and older adults. (Nydell)
http://www.profam.org/pub/fia/fia_1603.htm
Etiquette: Arabs are very generous and hospitable people. They are more than willing to take you into their home and feed you. It is important that you never turn an Arab down if they offer you something. Some things to know that would be important to do is when you are offered a drink always accept it and hold it in your right hand. Also it is very appropriate to show up at a social event late. Arabs are a lot more relaxed when it comes to a fixed time. When you go over to an Arabs home to eat expect not to eat till 10 or 11 PM, and plan on staying very late. When discussing business proposals with an Arab it is important that you do not rush them or they will most likely decline any offer that may be on the table at that time. They like time to think and discuss such matters.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Etiquette_in_the_Middle_East
These are but a few ideas that can tie cultures closer together by showing what sets them apart
References and links for more information
Nydell, Margaret K. Understanding Arabs. Massachusetts: Nicholas Brealey Publishing, 2006
More on Etiquette
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Etiquette_in_the_Middle_East
For some common Question and Answers about Arab Culture-
Multiple Authors
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Arab-Culture-2719/
Why Americans Don’t Understand the Arab Culture By Charlie
http://op-for.com/2006/04/why_americans_dont_understand.html
Turning Back the Clock: Should America Try to Recover Lost Family Strengths?
By Bryce Christensen
http://www.profam.org/pub/fia/fia_1603.htm
To purchase Understanding Arabs by Nydell
http://www.amazon.com/Understanding-Arabs-Guide-Modern-Times/dp/1931930252
Credit to:
Shane Sharp