Describe the essential differences in relationships in Eastern and Western cultures.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

In many Western cultures like the United States, relationships are typically viewed from the perspective of the self. In many Eastern cultures, such as China, relationships are guided by Confucianism. Relational partners in Eastern cultures engage in long-term and asymmetrical reciprocity. In Western cultures, short-term symmetrical reciprocity is typical. Another difference between Eastern and Western relationships is that in many Eastern cultures there is a clear difference between who is and is not a member of the in-group and out-group. A fourth difference between relationships of Eastern and Western cultures is the use of intermediaries (i.e., go-betweens). For the most part, persons in Western cultures prefer direct face-to-face contact with those with whom they maintain interpersonal relations, including business partners. In Eastern cultures, because the distinctions between in-groups and out-groups is so well defined, the use of intermediaries becomes essential and they are used even in informal situations, as in introductions, dating, marital arrangements, and even relatively small business transactions.