Define and describe the essential differences between high and low context cultures.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

High-context cultures generally have restricted code systems. Users of a restricted code system rely more on the contextual elements of the communication setting for information than on the actual language code. In restricted-code cultures, communication is not general across individuals in content but is specific to particular people, places, and times. Within a high-context transaction, the interactant will look to the physical, sociorelational, and perceptual environment for information. Of particular importance is the social relationship between the interactants.
In a low-context culture, the verbal code is the primary source of information. Low-context cultures generally rely on elaborated codes. Unlike users of restricted codes, users of elaborated codes rely extensively on the verbal code system for creating and interpreting meaning. Information to be shared with others is coded in the verbal message. Although persons in low-context transactions recognize the nonverbal environment, they tend to focus more on the verbal context. Moreover, the rules and expectations are explicitly outlined. Users of elaborated codes are dependent on words to convey meaning and may become uncomfortable with silence. In low-context transactions, the communicants feel a need to speak.