Cultural Diversity in the Workplace

Culture

Derived from Latin "colere" meaning to cultivate or nurture; system of learned behaviors, knowledge, beliefs, values, customs, artifacts, and traditions shared by a group; encompasses religion, language, customs, arts, and ways of living.

Subculture

Distinct group within a larger culture sharing unique characteristics, values, or practices while remaining part of the broader framework.

Co-Cultures

Groups within the same general culture differing in ethnic, sociological, or other ways from the dominant culture; members may adopt different interaction strategies.

Assimilation

Co-cultural strategy where members attempt to fit in by adopting the behaviors, speech, and values of the dominant culture.

Accommodation

Co-cultural strategy where members maintain their cultural identity while building relationships with the dominant culture.

Separation

Co-cultural strategy where members resist interaction with those considered outsiders, keeping to themselves.

Ethnocentrism

Tendency to view one's own culture as superior to all others; primary cause of failed intercultural communication.

Cultural Relativism

Ability to understand a culture on its own terms without judging by external standards; no culture is considered superior in morality, law, or politics.

Cultural Pluralism

Recognition and acceptance of diverse cultural identities within a society; minority groups maintain their heritage while adhering to broader societal laws.

High-Context Culture

Communication relies heavily on nonverbal cues, shared history, and implicit meaning; relationships and context matter more than explicit words (examples: Japan, China, Korea, Philippines, Latin America).

Low-Context Culture

Communication is direct, explicit, and verbal; facts and details are stated clearly; relationships are compartmentalized (examples: United States, Germany, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom).

Multicultural Context

Presence of multiple distinct cultural groups within a shared environment.

Cross-Cultural Context

Interaction and comparison between different cultural groups or practices.

Intercultural Context

Interaction, communication, and mutual influence between people of different cultures.

International Context

Communication and activity across national boundaries involving diverse languages and cultures.

Xenocentrism

the belief that another culture, society, or lifestyle is superior to one's own