Nicholas Netzer
Contemporary China 370
Dr. Charles Hammond
Journal #5
Again, I was speaking with my friend Kevin about some simple differences in China and I came across many that were worth pointing out. First of all, he told me that when you walking about in China make sure you always have tissues with you. Now, this may not be what one would think, it is not due to SARS or having a cold and it is considered mannerly to give someone a tissue, but rather, I was told that it is common for public restrooms not to have toilet paper. That would put one a bit off had they found this out after they got to the bathroom and were ready to leave.
Among other peculiar differences of course there is the saving face deal, which I will not go into great detail since we have covered it quite thoroughly in class, but I find it peculiar that they do not really do anything really out of the genuine thought of helping someone, but rather to get something back from the person which they helped out.
In China when you are with your friends, and you all have different things to do, it is considered the polite or proper thing to go with them and accompany them with their tasks and then do your wile with them, rather than go on your own and do your errand. You are looked upon as a loner or not a true friend if you do this often. Whereas it is quite often that in America if you are with your friends and you all have something to do, you all go your separate ways.
If you ever come across a person’s memorial and there is an epitaph and a photo, NEVER turn your back towards it. Even when you are leaving, make sure you leave facing the photo and epitaph, it is considered EXTREMELY rude to turn your back towards these things and you should avoid it at all costs.
