Cross Cultural Communication - Essay Example

The major features of high context and low context cultures can be understood through critical elements such as association, interaction, territoriality, temporality, learning, through patterns and social perspectives (Hofstede, 2001; Hall, 1976). 1. Knowledge is generally embedded in the current situation. Things are synthesized and connected as well as global. For information, multiple sources are used. Thinking is from general to precise or specific. 1. Reality is compartmentalized and fragmented.

One particular information source is used for developing knowledge. Thinking is generally inductive and proceeds to general ideas from specific issues. More focus is given on details (Chaney, 2005). Japan is a model example of a high context culture. Japan and China are considered as model examples of this culture. In Japan and China a major part of the communication is implicit and internalized. For instance, they speak very less words in a conversation and convey more through facial expressions (Richardson and Smith, 2007).

Low context messages are very difficult to understand without having backed with proper background information. According to hall, in Japan and China communication style, much of the meaning depends on physical context such as voice tone, facial expressions and gestures. As a result, the verbal message is itself very less. For instance, a Japanese executive visiting a low context culture such as US will face problems with their extremely direct approach (Hendon, Hendon and Herbig, 1999). Individuals prefer interacting and conveying their message through indirect communication and body language.

The major reason behind this can be attributed to their objective of preserving and strengthening relationships by ensuring harmony and saving face. The culture of Japan and China is influenced by a well-structured hierarchy in society, strong norms of behaviour as well as closeness in human