For all of us, it was the first time in India and we were excited looking forward to see this huge and different country. All of us had various expectations and we were very enthusiastic to join the exchange program. The program starts at 8th February and ends at 19th February 2011. We visited Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, and then we went back to Delhi Airport. We also went to Goa on our own for one weak, this was organized by us. Every day, we had a program, like visiting two universities, Indian companies or doing sight seeing. During our journey we got new impressions and saw a lot of differences to Germany. The Indian culture has many differences to the German culture which made us going through the DMI Stages.
Table of Contents
1. Assignment about an own experience
1.1. Introduction
1.2. DMI Stages in India
1.2.1. Denial
1.2.2. Defense
1.2.3. Minimization
1.2.4. Acceptance
1.2.5. Adaptation
1.2.6. Integration
1.3. Conclusion
2. Assignment about a film “Dances with wolves”
2.1. Introduction
2.2. DMI Stages
2.2.1. Denial
2.2.2. Defense
2.2.3. Minimization
2.2.4. Acceptance
2.2.5. Adaptation
2.2.6. Integration
2.3. Conclusion
3. Doing Business with China
3.1. Introduction
3.2. Comparison China and Germany
3.2.1. Differences in general
3.2.2. Negotiating in China
3.3. Conclusion
Objectives and Research Themes
The primary objective of this work is to explore intercultural sensitivity and cross-cultural communication by analyzing personal experiences in India, the film "Dances with Wolves," and business practices in China through the lens of Bennett's Developmental Model of Intercultural Sensitivity (DMIS).
- Application of the Developmental Model of Intercultural Sensitivity (DMIS).
- Evaluation of intercultural learning during travel and study programs.
- Analysis of cross-cultural adaptation within a cinematic narrative.
- Comparison of German and Chinese cultural norms in professional settings.
- Strategy development for successful international business negotiations.
Excerpt from the Book
3.2.1. Differences in general
There are many aspects of the Chinese culture which are strange for European people. “In China it is normal to talk about the size of salary. Europeans should think about their answer carefully and tell the same amount like the European colleague. Furthermore Chinese like to ask for the price of your car or your watch. The age is also not a taboo theme. If you do not have a family, Chinese think that you are too particular. But it is very delicate to talk about politics; these topics will cause silence, because this is only discussed in close relationships. Jokes about politicians are not allowed. In every talk a huge sympathy should be shown. A pleasing talk is a harmonic talk for Chinese. Negative aspects should not be mentioned as well as comments about the bad weather or a bad service at the hotel.”
Summary of Chapters
1. Assignment about an own experience: The author chronicles a study trip to India, documenting the personal journey of intercultural learning through the stages of the DMIS model.
2. Assignment about a film “Dances with wolves”: This chapter applies the DMIS model to the character development of John J. Dunbar, illustrating how he navigates a new culture and eventually integrates into an Indian tribe.
3. Doing Business with China: This section contrasts German and Chinese cultural behaviors to provide essential insights for managers conducting business in China.
Keywords
Intercultural Sensitivity, DMIS, Cultural Adaptation, India, China, Germany, Business Negotiation, Cross-cultural communication, Ethnocentrism, Ethnorelative, International Management, Cultural Differences, Intercultural Learning, Social Norms, Behavioral Relativism.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core subject of this assignment?
The work focuses on the concept of intercultural sensitivity and how individuals or groups experience cultural differences and adapt to new social or professional environments.
What are the primary themes addressed?
The main themes include cross-cultural adjustment, the stages of intercultural competence, the importance of relationship-building in business, and the contrast between Western and Eastern cultural perspectives.
What is the central objective of the analysis?
The goal is to apply theoretical frameworks, specifically Bennett’s Developmental Model of Intercultural Sensitivity, to practical scenarios including personal travel, film interpretation, and international business.
Which scientific method is utilized?
The author uses a qualitative approach, employing descriptive analysis and the application of an established theoretical model (DMIS) to evaluate various intercultural encounters.
What topics are covered in the main body?
The body covers personal impressions of India, an in-depth character study of cultural transition in "Dances with Wolves," and specific cultural protocols for German business professionals in China.
Which keywords define this work?
The most relevant keywords include Intercultural Sensitivity, DMIS, Cultural Adaptation, Business Negotiation, and Cross-cultural communication.
How does the author characterize the Chinese business negotiation style?
The author describes it as complex and indirect, emphasizing the necessity of building long-term personal relationships, understanding group hierarchies, and maintaining harmony during talks.
What role does the interpreter play in Chinese business negotiations?
The interpreter is considered an essential bridge who must understand both the language and the cultural nuances of both parties, often acting as the most important connecting figure in the negotiation process.
Why did the author personally feel they did not reach the "Integration" stage in India?
The author concludes that their stay in India was of too short a duration to fully internalize the cultural behaviors necessary to move from mere adaptation to the highest stage of integration.
- Quote paper
- Melanie Müller (Author), 2011, Leadership and Culture, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/189181
