German Culture and Lifestyle
Running head: GERMAN CULTURE
German Culture Cultures that have difficulty understanding others can lead to increased tension among differing cultures. German cultures have been known to have a difficult past but if others view their lifestyles, dietary habits, health care, education, and recreational activities, other cultures may view them in a different light. German living is very similar to the American way of life; they both enjoy variety and a wholesome feeling to living life. There may be a few differences, but similarities are there. City living for Germans is mostly made up of rented apartments, whereas leased or owned farms consist of owners working part-time, just enough to supplement fresh produce for their families and to obtain additional income. Germans have one of the highest standards of living in the world. Germany's once leisurely society has changed drastically in the past few years to a much faster paced one. They answer the phone by stating their first names. Placing one's feet on furniture is considered insulting. Relationships vary considerably between the north and south. The northerners are easygoing and good-natured whereas the southerners are lively and excitable. Most Germans are seen as serious and aloof. Children are taught to be polite from a very young age. Women just recently received legal equality with men even though men still receive higher salaries. Clothing consists of mainly western-style. Although at festivals much more traditional attire is appropriate. Marriage in Germany differs from that of the United States. Households are made up of man and wife and may or may not have children. The divorce rate is rising considerably. Homosexuality is also on the rise. There is a sense of a certain neatness or formality to behavior in everyday life. It is always proper to shake hands with guests. It is proper for a man to wait for a woman to extend her hand before he extends his. One of the most common greetings
German Culture Cultures that have difficulty understanding others can lead to increased tension among differing cultures. German cultures have been known to have a difficult past but if others view their lifestyles, dietary habits, health care, education, and recreational activities, other cultures may view them in a different light. German living is very similar to the American way of life; they both enjoy variety and a wholesome feeling to living life. There may be a few differences, but similarities are there. City living for Germans is mostly made up of rented apartments, whereas leased or owned farms consist of owners working part-time, just enough to supplement fresh produce for their families and to obtain additional income. Germans have one of the highest standards of living in the world. Germany's once leisurely society has changed drastically in the past few years to a much faster paced one. They answer the phone by stating their first names. Placing one's feet on furniture is considered insulting. Relationships vary considerably between the north and south. The northerners are easygoing and good-natured whereas the southerners are lively and excitable. Most Germans are seen as serious and aloof. Children are taught to be polite from a very young age. Women just recently received legal equality with men even though men still receive higher salaries. Clothing consists of mainly western-style. Although at festivals much more traditional attire is appropriate. Marriage in Germany differs from that of the United States. Households are made up of man and wife and may or may not have children. The divorce rate is rising considerably. Homosexuality is also on the rise. There is a sense of a certain neatness or formality to behavior in everyday life. It is always proper to shake hands with guests. It is proper for a man to wait for a woman to extend her hand before he extends his. One of the most common greetings
References: Kwintessential. (2010). Germany- German culture, customs, and business etiquette. Retrieved September 28, 2010 from http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/germany-country-profile.html